The Jitterbug cell phone, manufactured by Samsung is marketing its services primarily to senior citizens, an untapped market. The company, Greatcall was founded by two pioneers in the wireless telecommunications industry, Martin Cooper and Arlene Harris.
The first thing you notice about the jitterbug phone is that it is big, very big compared to typical cell phones. This allows you to grip the phone comfortably. Not only is the jitterbug phone big, but it is much thicker than other cell phones and can make carrying the phone in your pocket very uncomfortable. The primary reason for the thickness is the rubber bumper, which envelopes the speaker. The rubber wraps around your ear blocking out extraneous noise allowing for very clear sound, a benefit for many elderly people.
One of the intriguing benefits of a jitterbug phones is you can have your phone list programmed before it is shipped. This is extremely important if you choose the model without the number pad. You can dial either using the internal phone book or use one of the three buttons to have the jitterbug operator place the call for you (although there is a charge of 5 minutes for this service). You can access this same feature on calls with keypads by simply pressing the “O’ key. The buttons on the phone are big, allowing for easy access. The keys are also raised making it easier to press the right key.
The external screen on this Samsung is very small. It can be difficult reading names on incoming calls unless the backlight is on. The internal screen is a fair size and has a good combination of resolution, contrast and brightness. Jitterbug does not expect intensive use of features and its internal menus are simple to use with few options.
The price of the actual jitterbug phone is fairly expensive (currently $147) compared to competitors such as Virgin Mobile or TracFone. Because they lack free calls to other subscribers on the same network and free nights and weekends.
While the jitterbug phones lack a number of the interesting and exciting features of other cell phones, they are simple to use and easier to handle. For seniors or other individuals who are technology challenged, the jitterbug phone would be a wise choice.
The features listed below are just some of the qualities that make jitterbug the phone for its matured audience:
The buttons are big.
The screens and text are bright and easy to read.
The sound is loud and clear.
Call direct or a Jitterbug operator can call for you.
You choose the features you want.
It's easy to use for emergencies.
Service as low as $10 a month |
