Wherify Wherifone G550
Wherify Wheriphone G550
The product: Buying a cell phone for a tween can be a dilemma for parents. But because keeping in contact with your kids in an emergency is an advantage, the Wherifone G550 may be an answer. Styled in an attractive blue and silver, the compact (3.2 by 1.6 by 0.7 inches; 2.4 ounces) G550 can be programmed with five phone numbers and a 911 panic button. As a bonus, the mobile's form factor is extremely simple to use, which makes it ideal for both younger and older customers. Instead of a keypad, five numbered keys dial the programmed numbers, and a monochrome display shows the date, time, battery life, signal strength, and caller ID (where available). There's also a speakerphone and paging capability, and the triband (GSM 900/1800/1900; GPRS) feature gives it world roaming. The handset even comes with a GPS locater, which can pinpoint the user's location up to a few feet. Friends or family can access location information over the Internet for an additional fee.

The prospects: The Wherifone G550 fills a need for a cell phone for the technologically challenged and for preteens. A simple design and back-to-basics functionality should appeal to parents looking to keep in contact with the kids and users seeking quick access to emergency services. If the overall prices can be kept down, it should find an audience.

By Kent German, associate editor, CNET Reviews