Launched by Lively in 2006, the original Jitterbug phone offered basic call functionality, as well as senior-friendly features such as oversized keys, large displays, and a design that’s easy to hold in the palm of your hand. Another thing I loved about the original Jitterbug was its dedicated emergency button, which added an additional layer of protection not seen on most modern mobile phones.
Since its debut over a decade ago, the Lively line has evolved to offer users an ever-optimizing experience. Today, we’re taking a closer look at the two phones that comprise their current lineup, the Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart3.
Did You Know: A good cell phone is nothing without a quality network to pair it with. Read my rundown of this year’s best senior cell phone plans to learn more.
At $99.99 (plus activation), the Jitterbug Flip2 is the more affordable of Lively’s two device options, and with its classic flip phone design, it’s also the more simplistic model. For the user looking to make calls, send text messages, and snap the occasional photo, the Jitterbug Flip2 is ideal. With its large buttons, voluble speaker, and sizable screen, this phone is a breeze to use. Additionally, this phone boasts an M4/T4 rating for hearing aid compatibility, which makes it a good fit for the millions of Americans with significant hearing loss.
Despite the Jitterbug Flip2’s simple appearance, it also is capable of some advanced features not seen from the average flip phone. On the outer edge of the handset, you’ll find a dedicated 5Star button. When pressed, this button will connect you to a Lively monitoring agent who will assess your situation and contact a loved one or emergency services if necessary.
The one downside of the Jitterbug Flip2 would have to be its 2-megapixel camera. While it can certainly capture images in a pinch, it lacks the clarity and resolution of the camera featured on the Jitterbug Smart3. Still, as far as flip phone cameras go, this one is about par for the course.
In terms of plans, the Jitterbug Flip2 can be paired with one of two plans that start at $14.99 per month.
| Plan | Costs | Monthly Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Value Talk and Text | $14.99 per month |
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| Unlimited Talk and Text | $19.99 per month |
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Unlike Consumer Cellular, who will automatically upgrade your service plan in the event that you go over your monthly allowance, Lively will charge you for the overage. Each additional minute will cost $0.35, and additional texts will be $0.10 each.
In terms of calls, users may make calls anywhere in the continental U.S. or Canada for no additional charge. With that said, calls made to Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, or Mexico will cost an additional $0.20 per minute.
Activation Fees: Although Lively does not require you to lock into a long-term contract, both Lively devices require a one-time activation fee, though this is waived with the purchase of a health and safety package.
Lively’s response to the fact that more and more seniors are getting in on the mobile movement, the Jitterbug Smart3 features larger text and icons and is the company’s biggest smartphone. The phone comes with everything users know and love from the Lively name—including the preloaded 5Star emergency app, as well as MedCoach and UrgentCare. And did we mention that the Jitterbug Smart3 also includes mobile internet access from anywhere at any time?
Starting at $149.99 plus activation fees, the Jitterbug Smart3 is also one of the most affordable smartphones out there. Voice typing, a built-in camera, a handy usage meter, and a convenient long-lasting battery round out the list of reasons why this Jitterbug is a “smart” choice for today’s connected users.
As with the Jitterbug Flip2, users choose between Lively plans aimed at meeting their individual needs free of annual contracts, cancellation fees, and other unnecessary expenses. With the Jitterbug Smart3, plans start as low as $14.99 per month; however, you’ll likely want to purchase data usage, which comes at extra costs.
| Plan | Costs | Monthly Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Value Talk and Text | $14.99 per month |
|
| Unlimited Talk and Text | $19.99 per month |
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| Unlimited Talk, Text, and Data | $49.99 per month |
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Available on both the Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart3 are Lively Health and Safety Packages. For the user looking to expand the functionality of their device, these packages provide you with the assistance and peace of mind normally confined to medical alert devices. Starting at $19.99 per month, these plans allow you to make use of your dedicated 5Star button (built into both phones), which gives you 24/7 access to one of Lively’s trained emergency specialists.
Here is an overview of Lively’s Health and Safety Features:
Did You Know: If you’re looking for a full-fledged medical alert system, then read my rundown of this year’s best medical alerts.
| Basic | Preferred | Ultimate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $19.99 | $24.99 | $34.99 |
| 5Star Service | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Urgent Care | No | Yes | Yes |
| Lively Link | No | Yes | Yes |
| Personal Operator | No | No | Yes |
While modern cell phones have a reputation for being beyond the capabilities of older adults, the Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart3 prove that this is not the case. With their combination of simple devices, wellness features, and affordable service plans, each Lively device is tailored to keep seniors connected to their loved ones with little hassle.
To learn more about the best cell phones for seniors, be sure to check out our helpful guides:
Much like a mobile medical alert system, a 5Star-enabled Lively gives you peace of mind anywhere you go. Unlike a medical alert system, however, this service is not confined to medical emergencies, as it can also be used to contact roadside assistance; however, this service does not include fall detection on Lively phones.
Through a combination of large buttons, a bright screen, and intuitive menu design, the Jitterbug Flip2 is designed to have no learning curve whatsoever. Additionally, it’s accessible to people with vision and hearing impairments.
The Jitterbug Smart3 has a hearing aid compatibility rating of M4/T4, the highest rating possible. This ensures that nearly any hearing aid can continue to work without static while using the Jitterbug Smart3.
The longest commitment you’ll have to make with Lively is for just one month. Paying for your service on a monthly basis, you will never be asked to lock into a long term agreement.
Regardless of your Lively service plan, you will never be charged extra for long distance calls or roaming.
