GreatCall

Samsung GreatCall r220 review: Simple and slimmer

Today, the mobile virtual-network operator known as GreatCall announced its latest cell phone for the elderly: the Samsung GreatCall r220.

Also known as the Jitterbug Plus, this feature phone looks a lot more modern than older Jitterbug models.

In addition to a big keypad and a clear user interface, several emergency and wellness services tie in with the handset. One is 5Star Urgent Response. When you're in an emergency situation or feel unsafe (for example, while walking to your car at night in an empty parking lot), you can call a live agent, available 24-7. The agent can then … Read more

5Star Responder like OnStar for people

When OnStar first came out, I remember finding the concept of a disembodied voice in the car to help with emergency situations kind of cool. Now you can equip your body with the same sort of technology.

GreatCall's 5Star Responder is a small GPS-equipped device that can clip to your keychain. Push the button and it hooks you up with an emergency responder over a nationwide cellular network.

Obvious uses for the Responder are when you're being threatened or have had an accident, but GreatCall also encourages use if you want someone to be there when you're walking to your car alone at night or hear strange noises outside of your house. Pretty much anything that gooses your danger instincts. … Read more

GreatCall adds new 5Star security service

GreatCall, the maker of the Jitterbug phone for seniors, introduced a new personal security service for its customers last week at CES 2011. Called 5Star, the service is designed to address security and health concerns that don't necessarily merit calling 911. For example, if you're walking alone in a park at night, you might feel unsafe, but there's no immediate need to call the police. If you have the 5Star service on your Jitterbug phone, you can call them to at least have someone there on the line. And if something does happen, 5Star will be able … Read more

GreatCall offers new calling plans

GreatCall, the mobile virtual network operator that debuted the Jitterbug line of senior phones, announced new monthly rate plans yesterday. The carrier now offers four contract-free options designed for occasional and frequent users.

At $79.99 per month, the Simply Unlimited plan is the most expensive option, but it comes with the most features. You'll get unlimited anytime minutes, unlimited night and weekend minutes, unlimited texting, and no data charges. The plan also includes free calls to GreatCall's operator service, free voice mail, and free use of the Daily Health Tips, MyCalendar, LiveNurse, and Wellness Call applications.

For … Read more

Jitterbug now on Verizon Wireless

Usually when we recommend people get the Samsung Jitterbug J, a cell phone designed for seniors, we have to include a warning that the Jitterbug service might not be available in their area.

GreatCall, creator of the Jitterbug handsets, made deals with several different carriers across the country to carry its service, so it was very close to nationwide coverage but not quite complete.

Thursday, however, GreatCall and Verizon announced that the Jitterbug service will now be operating on the Verizon Wireless network as part of Verizon Wireless' Open Development program, which all but ensures better coverage nationwide.

Jitterbug also … Read more

GreatCall unleashes the Jitterbug J

There's a new Jitterbug in town, and it's called the Jitterbug J. Made by Samsung, the Jitterbug J is the successor to the original Jitterbug Dial, which if you'll recall was the phone we dubbed as friendly to seniors thanks to its easy-to-use controls and large backlit buttons.

Now it seems GreatCall, the company behind the Jitterbug, wants to expand its market to include everyone, not just the elderly. If you want a phone that looks and feels like a plain old telephone, no matter your age, then GreatCall is hoping the Jitterbug J will fit your … Read more