Doro PhoneEasy handsets to compete with Jitterbug

Consumer Cellular, the exclusive wireless provider for the AARP, has announced two new senior-friendly phones, the Doro PhoneEasy 345 and the Doro PhoneEasy 410. Both have large displays and easy-to-use buttons, much like the well-known Jitterbug handsets. The Doro PhoneEasy 410 has a flip phone form factor, while the Doro PhoneEasy 345 has a candybar design. Both phones offer a loud ringtone, soft grippy surfaces, a speakerphone, Bluetooth, text messaging, an alarm clock, an FM radio, a calculator, a flashlight, and even simple games. Doro, a Swedish company, claims these phones are popular with Europe's senior population, so they're hoping they will have the same success here.

The Doro phones also seem to be cheaper than the Jitterbug models. The Doro PhoneEasy 345 is $40, while the Doro PhoneEasy 410 is $50. There is a $35 activation fee upon enrollment. Consumer Cellular is nationwide and is an MVNO on AT&T's network. Rates start as low as $10 and there are no contracts required. We'll be reviewing these phones this week so stay tuned for that.