Jitterbug, the prepaid cellular service catered towards the less technologically inclined, announced yesterday that they would be moving over to the Verizon network. This will be part of the Verizon open development initiative. The benefits for users, according to the press release, are better rates and more affordable night and weekend packages. Those haven’t appeared on Jitterbug’s website, but they should in due time. The transition of networks should take place over the next few months, though there’s nothing said about customers who have Jitterbug but don’t currently live in a Verizon coverage area (if there are any).

Posted in Jitterbug on August 28th, 2009
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You might notice a new addition to our pay as you go cell phone provider list: Jitterbug. Funny that the week we put up this review that the company comes out with another phone. This one is called the Jitterbug J, and like its predecessor it is of the most basic variety. The bottons are still large, and there still aren’t many of them. New additions include Bluetooth and a dedicated speakerphone button. Crave lists text messaging as a new “advanced” feature, but Jitterbug has offered text messaging on previous models. It also has a decent ringtone selection — and apparently sounds a dial tone when you open it up, which is all sorts of cool. The phone will cost $147, and there is no contract. You can find out more at Jitterbug’s website.

Posted in Jitterbug on June 3rd, 2009
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Of the many issues facing cell phone coverage, e911 service is among the hottest buttons. While the FCC tightened e911 regulations about a year and a half ago, there are still many networks facing issues. Just a month ago we saw the story of e911 failure in Ohio and the devastating loss it can cause. In this case it was only property. In other cases it can cost lives. Yesterday we learned that Samsung and Jitterbug have recalled two handsets because of 911 issues. This is not a concern in the subscriber’s home calling area, but becomes an issue while outside the area.

The handsets, known collectively as The Jitterbug, are models number SPH a110 and SPH a120. They’re both clamshell models manufactured specifically for Jitterbug and geared towards older users. They feature a large internal screen and a large 12-button keypad.

The recall affects models sold after March 1, 2008, though customers who purchased The Jitterbug before that are urged to contact Jitterbug customer service. To remedy the issue customers are instructed to visit a Samsung Service Center to receive a free software upgrade. They are also accepting mail-in requests. This will all be explained in a letter sent out to affected customers.

In case you’re a Jitterbug customers who did not receive the letter, you can call 1-800-733-6632 to find out more information.

Posted in Jitterbug on May 27th, 2009
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