The Jitterbug Phone-for Seniors and Low Vision

A New Chapter for Wireless

"Jitterbugs are the brain child of Harris, called the "First Lady of Wireless" at a 2000 communications industry award show, and Cooper, credited with making the first cellular telephone call in 1973."

"Jitterbug phones aim to take the fear out of cellular phone technology. In a market filled with phones that double as stereos and televisions, these phones focus on more consumer-friendly features, such as larger buttons and preprogrammed phone numbers."

http://www.nctimes.com/articles/2006/11/19...11180664508.txt

"GreatCall created Jitterbug to provide Baby Boomers and their parents with perfectly simple cell phones and services that work the way they want them to. The company was founded by Arlene Harris, 45-year veteran in wireless and creator of the highly-regarded SOS emergency phone and Martin Cooper, "father of the first mobile cellular phone."

http://jitterbug.com/

 

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Clearly these phones are for those who cannot make use of cell phone technology today either because a) they can't even see the buttons let alone the numbers b) confusing for those who were never exposed to the technology, especially the elderly or the visually impaired. The concept is good, especially the Operator assist, where they would patiently guide the confused user through the phone book. Time Magazine says, "The strategy is simple: give elderly people a phone that they can use, with larger buttons, fewer screen options and a padded, amplified earpiece that doesn’t interfere with hearing aids." True, their service plans could be expanded and improved, and Time offers the hope that big button, simplified phones and service will soon be part of the offerings for the major carriers for those in need.

http://www.time.com/time/business/article/...1553360,00.html