This Simple Cell Phone Makes Calling Easy
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-11-27 13:30:00-05:00
As I turn 60 this year, it's been a real challenge to find a cell phone that fits my needs. It seems each new model caters to the younger generation with thinner profiles, smaller buttons and lots of added functionality for those who use the phone as a personal entertainment device. So I did some investigating into what cell phones are available today and found an interesting alternative that is a better fit for me and may also may fit the needs of many other boomers and their parents.
There is a prevalent opinion that only seniors need big buttons. As a technologist and a phone user, I don't agree with that point of view. It's really about ergonomics, ease of use and the mix of services companies are willing to offer.
Phones designed for the younger generations provide many diverse services like MP3 capability, downloading of ring-tones, games, music, shopping, plus camera, video and text messaging capability. Some of these services are interesting, and it's nice to know they're available, but most do not fit my lifestyle. It seems that phone design philosophy is driven by "more is better," however many of us, no matter the age, have little patience to wade through a thick instruction manual to learn how to use all the features. The preference would be in-phone or online instructions to help the learning curve.
A company that seems to be on the right track, focusing on a combination of hardware functionality and services for the mature market, is GreatCall™. It was founded by folks who were pioneers in early wireless telecommunications, including the SOS cell phones designed for elder users.
GreatCall™ offers the Jitterbug™ handset in collaboration with Samsung, a well-known cell phone manufacturer. The handset is available in two styles, is technically attractive, and importantly does not look like a child's toy or a medical device. The ergonomic design makes the device feel solid and well balanced in the hand and the screen is large with easily-readable text. The hardware features large, backlit, easy-to-read buttons spaced for an adult's fingers. The phone also has a nice, loud, and clear ring. There are also the standard accessories available such as a leather case, extra batteries and adaptors for the car and home.
Services offered include auto or manual dial, plus accessibility to a service center operator when you dial "0." The Jitterbug operator will greet you by name, look up numbers, place calls or answer questions about how to use the phone. They also help add or delete phone numbers or features to personalize your cell phone. You can even have GreatCall™ set up your phone list for you with the numbers you call most often. There is also an easy-to-retrieve voice-messaging system that provides a notification when you've missed a call.
The usage plans are economical and fit a wide variety of budgets from very low to high usage. If you're purchasing a plan for an elder parent, you can pay a full year in advance to simplify bill paying for your parent. You can opt for blocks of additional minutes if you are a high usage caller.
GreatCall™ provides a practical set of features for an audience that wants to use a phone for security when out of the house and staying connected with family and friends, or having an easy means of contacting people while shopping and during daily business. This is a well-designed phone that has the power and capability of much more.
GreatCall™ plans to add features over time based on the functionality desired by their customer base. They're worth a look if you're seeking a cell phone that's simple and easy to handle.
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