GreatCall, creator of the Jitterbug phone, is now using Verizon Wireless’ network.
Previously, the MVNO used roaming agreements with various CDMA carriers across the country to provide services. Hooking up with Verizon means GreatCall can offer more minutes and more affordable night and weekend calling than it previously did, according to CEO David Inns.
The deal also means Jitterbug customers get access to more advanced network technologies, such as high-speed data and other features, he adds.
Still, the company remains focused on offering what its customers want, which are easy-to-use phones and features, according to Inns. The company also will continue offering services related to health and wellness – not catering just to the elderly but to any demographic that wants to manage their lifestyle. The LiveNurse and roadside assistance portfolios will remain and be expanded further.
“Our customers are still going to enjoy the great handsets that we worked with Samsung to create, the same great customer service we have come to be known for, hands-on live customer service,” he says.
The company won’t use the Verizon Wireless brand in its collateral, but it can tell customers who ask that the service is powered by Verizon.
The partnership evolved through the Open Development Initiative headed by Tony Lewis, vice president of open development at Verizon. Jitterbug went through a process of certifying its phones for the Verizon network.
Privately held, Jitterbug hasn’t released subscriber figures. “At the end of the day, what we’re about is delivering the most exceptional customer experience,” he says.
Jitterbug phones are sold online or at retailers like Sears, RadioShack, CVS and Shopko.