CNET editors' take
- Reviewed on: 03/13/2009
Editors' note: Because evaluating wireless coverage requires experience with the network in a wide variety of physical locations, CNET does not rate wireless carriers. We can, however, tell you everything you need to know about the major carriers. We invite your feedback and ratings in our user opinions section; the more input we get from around the U.S., the better our users can evaluate coverage at a national level.
Jitterbug is the first mobile virtual-network operator that we know of that is primarily geared toward senior citizens. It currently offers only two phones: the Jitterbug (formerly known as the Jitterbug Dial) and the Jitterbug OneTouch. Both are flip phones. The regular Jitterbug is meant to mimic a real landline phone. The buttons are big, the keypad is roomy, and the display is easy to read. There's even a real dial tone when you turn it on, to make it feel like an ordinary phone. The Jitterbug OneTouch has just three buttons: Operator, My Choice, and 911. The menu has a Yes/No question-based interface. Jitterbug offers a 24-hour operator service. The carrier operates on Sprint's network and is therefore a CDMA carrier. It is usually offered where there's Sprint network coverage.
Things you should know:
• As a CDMA carrier, international coverage is limited.
• There is a one-time activation fee of $35.
• It offers two payment options: Pay-as-you-go and monthly plans with no contract required.
• Subscribers can reach an operator 24 hours a day. Operators give directory assistance, connect calls, and make changes to contact lists. Calls to an operator are deducted from the monthly minutes.
• For $80 a month, you can get the Simple PLUS plan that includes free operator services, free voice mail, and free texting. Without the PLUS plan, these services have fees. Voice mail, for example, is $3 a month.
• If you don't like monthly fees, you can pay a lump sum of $120 for 12 months of service and free voice mail. You still have to purchase minutes, though.
• Your minutes expire after 90 days.
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