Jitterbug

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Jitterbug is the first mobile virtual-network operator that we know of that is primarily geared toward senior citizens. It currently offers only one phone: The Jitterbug J. It is in the style of a flip phone and 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 menu has a Yes/No question-based interface. Jitterbug offers a 24-hour operator service. The carrier operates on Verizon's network and is therefore a CDMA carrier. It is usually offered where there's Verizon network coverage.

Things you should know:
• As a CDMA carrier, international coverage is limited.
• There is a one-time activation fee of $35. Setup fee is waived for each additional user.
• 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.
• Plans start at $14.99 a month for 50 minutes and go all the way to the Simplicity Plus plan, which is $79.99 a month for 1000 anytime minutes and 500 nights and weekend minutes. The Simplicity Plus plan also 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.
• Services like MyJitterbug (online account access), MyPhonebook (access your phonebook just by dialing the operator), Daily Health Tips, and MyCalendar (an appointment reminder service), are free for all Jitterbug plans.
• For $4 a month, you can get the Jitterbug MyWorld service, which provides personalized local weather forecast, daily trivia, sports news, stock market information, and more.
• You can buy additional minutes if you find you need more - they range from $19.99 for 100 extra minutes to $119.99 for 1000 extra minutes.

Fast facts:
• Subscribers: More than 5 million
• Coverage: Jitterbug has CDMA coverage in every state, similar to Verizon. Individual coverage will vary by location. For international coverage CDMA roaming is available in 26 countries.
• Technology: CDMA
• 3G network: No
• Streaming video service: No
• Music download service: No
• Push-to-talk: No
• Prepaid plans: Yes
• Family plans: No