Jitterbug adds VZW as dance partner

Mobile virtual network operator Great Call Inc. announced its Jitterbug service would now operate on Verizon Wireless’ CDMA network, adding the nation’s largest carrier to its list of compatible network partners. Jitterbug said the move to include Verizon Wireless’ network was eased by the carriers open development program that is designed to ease the approval process of news devices onto the carrier’s network.
Jitterbug has also altered its calling plans saying it will offer customers more minutes on its monthly plans and “more affordable” night and weekend calling than previous plans. New plans start at $15 per month for 50 anytime calling minutes, ramping up to $80 per month for 1,000 anytime minutes and 500 night/weekend minutes. Night calls start at 7 pm and customers are charged 35 cents per minute for overage. A contract is not required.
The company no longer offers a pay-per-minute service.
The company has discontinued the Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd.-produced Jitterbug One Touch handset, but will continue with the original Jitterbug device, now dubbed the Jitterbug J. Customers using current devices can use them with the new offering. The agreement with Verizon Wireless will also allow Jitterbug to offer more data services as well as access to the carrier’s location-based services.
Jitterbug’s redesigned Web site also shows a softened approach to marketing its service from strictly targeting more mature wireless customers to now targeting customers looking for an easier to use service.