Verizon targets seniors with new phone and plans

How many of you have grandparents with cell phones? If we put up a poll, we’re more than willing to bet that most would say “no.” There are a number of reasons for this, but it seems that no company has really taken any initiative. Verizon apparently saw this inefficiency and has taken steps to correct it. The Coup is a phone recently launched by the company, and it is geared right to seniors. In addition, they have launched two new America’s Choice plans to fill the typical calling needs of a senior. The phone offers ease of use to those who aren’t technologically inclined. There are several dedicated keys that can dial numbers with one button. Voice dialing and color-coded functions are also features of this phone. But perhaps the most beneficial feature to seniors is the enlarged font size, enabling even weary eyes to see the text on the screen. The first plan offers 200 anytime minutes and 500 night and weekend minutes for $30 per month. For double that, a senior couple can get a shared line, which includes 450 anytime minutes and 1,000 night and weekend minutes. As with all other America’s Choice plans, this also comes with unlimited domestic long distance and unlimited mobile to mobile calling. Unfortunately, both plans require a two-year contract. So it appears that Verizon isn’t above taking advantage of seniors, too. It’s a good idea in principle, but as all things that require two-year agreements, there can be grave downfalls. [RCR Wireless News]]]>