Although anyone can get a plan through GreatCall, this small carrier centers its plans around senior citizens, and thus only offers two phone options—Jitterbug Flip and Jitterbug Smart2. The only way you can purchase them is outright, but unlike the newest iPhones and Androids, GreatCall’s devices are very affordable.
GreatCall is an MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) that operates on Verizon’s robust network, which means you’ll get the same excellent coverage as Verizon’s primary customers. GreatCall only offers two phone options—Jitterbug Flip, a basic flip phone, and Jitterbug Smart2, an easy-to-use smartphone. This is because this MVNO caters to the needs of senior citizens and aging cell phone consumers. It does this by offering various health and safety features, such as 5Star Urgent Response, GreatCall Link, and GreatCall Rides.
The only way you can purchase a GreatCall phone is upfront, but don’t fret—these phones are far less expensive than many phones on the market today. The Jitterbug Flip costs $99.99 while the Jitterbug Smart2 will run you $149.99.
GreatCall only offers two cell phone options, a basic flip phone, and an easy-to-use smartphone.
Phones from GreatCall
Jitterbug Flip
The Jitterbug Flip is an affordable flip phone with large buttons, a big screen, and GreatCall’s 5Star Urgent Response button on the keypad. The 5Star Urgent Response button allows you to quickly call for help in the event of an emergency. This phone also has voice dialing, a powerful speaker, a flashlight, a long-lasting battery, a built-in camera, and a magnifier. When you purchase Jitterbug Flip, you can only choose a GreatCall phone plan that includes calls and texts—no data. This is simply because these flip phones don’t have the capability to access data.
Jitterbug Smart2
GreatCall advertises the Jitterbug Smart2 as the “simplest smartphone ever.” This smartphone has a large screen, easy navigation, a long-lasting battery, voice typing, a built-in camera, and the 5Star Urgent Response button and app. With this smartphone, you can buy a GreatCall plan that includes talk, text, and data.
GreatCall Phones Compared
| Phone | Type | Data Use | Health & Safety | Design |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jitterbug Flip | Basic flip | No | 5Star button | Large screen, big buttons, bright screen |
| Jitterbug Smart2 | Smartphone | Yes | 5Star button & app | Large screen, single-list navigation |
How to Buy a GreatCall Phone
The only way to purchase a GreatCall phone is by paying for it upfront—this means that you must pay the full price of the device at checkout. Unlike other carriers big and small, GreatCall does not offer monthly installment plans for its phones, but it doesn’t really need to; both available GreatCall phones are very affordable, with the more expensive option costing $149.99.
Simply add the phone to your cart, then follow the prompts, choosing the amount of talk and text (and data for Jitterbug Smart2) you want, whether you want to keep your phone number or not, and any additional health and safety features you want to add on.
Health and Safety Services
No matter which phone you choose, GreatCall offers a variety of health and safety services for you to choose from.
5Star Urgent Response
Every GreatCall plan gives you access to 5Star Urgent Response. This service allows you to get help with the click of a button. AED-certified agents will confirm your location, assess your situation or emergency, and ensure that you get the help you need—whether you have fallen, gotten lost, or are experiencing a medical emergency.
GreatCall Link
The GreatCall Link app keeps family members and friends updated on your health and safety status. Once they download the free app, they will be alerted if you contact 5Star for help. This is a great way for loved ones to monitor your health, safety, and location without constantly having to contact you.
GreatCall Rides
GreatCall has partnered with Lyft, the rideshare company, to connect you with affordable rides right from your device. Simply dial “0” on either the Jitterbug Flip or the Jitterbug Smart2 and you can talk to a live operator who will provide you with an estimate. Within minutes, a driver will arrive to your location and pick you up. Better yet, you don’t have to pay on the spot; the cost of the ride will show up on your monthly bill.
