Jitterbug Phone Overview

Jitterbug phones from Lively offer user-friendly features tailored to older adults. The Jitterbug Smart3 and Jitterbug Flip2 come with quality audio, big buttons, and large print to make staying in touch easier.

Because these phones are designed for older adults, you can add senior-specific features to your phone plan. Examples include Urgent Care virtual doctor visits, the Lively Link app, and a Personal Operator. And every plan comes with 5Star Service that connects you to an emergency operator who can help you in a scary situation like a medical emergency.

Lively Jitterbug Pros and Cons

Why choose Lively?

Customers love Lively because of its portability and affordability. Their response times are quick and the GPS services were accurate and on point. Each device is lightweight and equipped with a bright flashing light that can be activated and signal services to you.

Lively devices are ready to use out of the box. If an incident occurs, Lively will immediately send the location and activity of the user to family, friends or whoever else is on their contact list.

Users report that the two-way speaker system is loud and clear, which is important when you're communicating with 5-Star agents or 911 services.

Where to Buy Jitterbug Phones Cheapest?

• Lively(Up to 20% cashback)

• Best Buy (Up to 0.5% cashback)

• Walmart (Up to 4% cashback)

• eBay US  (Up to 4.6% cashback)

• Rite Aid    (Up to 4% cashback)

• Amazon (Cashback temporarily unavailable)

Money Saving Tip: If you want to buy a Jitterbug Phone, Sign up at Extrabux first，(What is Extrabux?), then book through the recommended website,  so you can enjoy up to 20% cashback from Extrabux! Sign-Up Bonus: Free to join it & get a $20 welcome bonus!

Jitterbug Smart2 vs. Smart3 vs. Flip2 Overview

Jitterbug Smart2 Review

User reviews：3.3/5

Lively specializes in phones and devices to help keep seniors safe and connected. The Jitterbug Smart2 is the second version of GreatCall’s simplified smartphone device, with improved functionality while maintaining the simple interface of the original.

The Jitterbug Smart2 is meant to be the most uncomplicated smartphone on the market. It includes features most useful to older adults, requires minimal setup, and is intended to be intuitive for people who may be less comfortable with complicated technology.

The Jitterbug Smart2’s screen is bright, colorful and features a list of thoughtfully-placed icons for often-used apps like Phone, Text Message, Camera, and Internet to help you navigate to what you need. The Smart2 has a much more streamlined interface than other smartphones and uses voice-over-LTE, a technology to enable faster, clearer-sounding voice calls.

Jitterbug Smart2 Specs

• Measures 6 x 3 inches, and is .33 inches thick

• 5.5-inch touch screen

• Weighs 5.6 ounces

• 13-megapixel camera with flash

• Voice typing for easier texting

• Standard 3.5mm headphone jack

• MicroSD card slot for up to 32 GB additional memory (16 GB internal memory)

• Micro USB charging cable

Advantages and Disadvantages of Jitterbug Smart2

Jitterbug Smart2 Costs and Plans

 In addition to purchasing the Jitterbug Smart2 phone, you pay a one-time $35 activation fee then a monthly fee for standard smartphone services and an optional health and safety service bundle.  Lively plans are month-to-month with no contracts.

The chart below shows sample pricing for light, moderate and heavy phone use, but you can buy more or less talk time, text amounts and data between each tier on the chart.

GreatCall Jitterbug Smart2 Sample Plans

After you choose a cell phone plan, you can add one of the following service bundles.

GreatCall Jitterbug Smart2 Health & Safety Services

Price and Where to Buy?

• Walmart:$119 (Up to 4% cashback)

• Amazon:$129.90 (No cashback )

Jitterbug Smart3 Review

User reviews：4.1/5

Lively’s Jitterbug Smart 3, also known as GreatCall Lively Smart, is one of the most user-friendly smartphones for seniors. Compatible with most Bluetooth devices and hearing aids, this comprehensive smartphone appeals to older ears and eyes. Lively has put a lot of thought into age-appropriate functions like a larger touchscreen, list-style menu, powerful speaker, and accurate voice typing (perfect for anti-texters). 

The 22-hour talk time and dual rear cameras, complete with video and flash, are great features for those who travel often or take countless snaps of their grandchildren. Fast mobile internet access, Google navigation, and a lineup of pre-installed, senior-geared apps round out why this phone is so useful and convenient. Also, the Jitterbug Smart2 costs $149.99 plus the cost of the monthly plan and an activation fee, which is very reasonable for a smartphone.

If you go this route, we'd recommend adding on the basic Lively Health & Safety Package, which gives you access to the Urgent Response services. Just press the Urgent Response button on your phone and you'll be connected to an emergency operator who's already familiar with your medical history and personal contacts.

Jitterbug Smart3 Features

• Large 6.2-inch screen

• Simple, list-based menu

• Voice typing

• Video chat

• High-quality camera

• Long-lasting battery

• Powerful speaker

• Urgent Response button

• How-to guides right on your phone

Advantages and Disadvantages of Jitterbug Smart3

Jitterbug Smart3 Costs and Plans

Currently, Lively offers two different plans for the Smart3: Value Talk and Text and Unlimited Talk and Text. The former costs $14.99 per month, and the latter costs $19.99 per month. Additionally, since the Smart3 is a smartphone, you’ll likely want to add data to your plan which costs an additional monthly amount depending on the amount of data you’d like. 

Jitterbug Smart3 Phone Plans

Jitterbug Smart3 Accessories  Pricing

Price and Where to Buy?

•  Lively:$74.99,Regularly $149.99 (Up to 20% cashback)

• Bestbuy:$74.99,Regularly $149.99 (Up to 0.5% cashback)

Jitterbug Flip2 Review

User reviews：3.8/5

The Jitterbug Flip for GreatCall is a simple clamshell flip phone with a few handy features that make it a fantastic choice for seniors and people with special health needs.The Jitterbug Flip2 has the simplicity of a flip phone with more modern features. It’s equipped with a built-in reading light and magnifier for illuminating and enlarging reading materials. Extra large, legible buttons make texting on the keypad easier for vision-impaired users. The flip phone comes in two colors, red and graphite, in a sleek, clamshell exterior.

Fussing with the menu and apps can be tricky for those with vision or dexterity issues, which is why the Flip2 is equipped with Amazon Alexa. Users can use their voice to access many phone features through Alexa, like calling or texting, setting reminders, and checking the weather. Just address your phone “Alexa” to activate your phone’s listening ability.

You hope to never have to push it, but the big red star on the center of your keypad is one of the most supportive Flip2 features. This SOS button is active for those users who’ve opted for Urgent Response, allowing them to easily contact a trained operator to assess the situation, day or night.

Jitterbug Flip2 Features

• Large screen and buttons

• Easy list-based menu

• Powerful speaker

• Long-lasting battery

• Urgent Response button

• Amazon Alexa

• Magnifier and flashlight

• 8MP camera and video

• One-touch speed dialing

Advantages and Disadvantages of Jitterbug Flip2 

Jitterbug Flip2 Costs and Plans

 In addition to purchasing the Jitterbug Flip2 phone,you also need to pay a one-time $35 activation fee when you purchase the Jitterbug Flip2 and begin service. Unlike other cellular providers, Lively doesn't offer AARP or other discounts on phone plans. However, Likely does offer an AARP discount for their Health & Safety Packages if you decide to add one to your phone plan.

Jitterbug Flip2 Senior Phone Plans

Jitterbug Flip2 Accessories  Pricing

Interested in upgrading your Jitterbug Flip2? Lively offers a few accessories.

Price and Where to Buy?

• Lively: $49.99,Regularly $99.99 (Up to 20% cashback)

• Bestbuy:$49.99,Regularly $99.99 (Up to 0.5% cashback)

Jitterbug Smart2 vs. Smart3 vs. Flip2 Side to Side Comparison

Key Specs

Compatibility

Features

Display

Network

Lively App

If you want to access Lively's health and safety features but aren't looking for a new phone, you have options! You can purchase a Health & Safety Package, download the Lively app, and access your health and safety features on an iPhone or Apple Watch. This option is only available with the Basic and Preferred packages. If you decide to go this route, your chosen Health & Safety Package will cost an extra $5 per month.

Lively also offers discounts on a new Apple Watch. If you sign a two-year contract for a Preferred Health & Safety Package, you can get up to $200 off a new Apple watch at Best Buy.

Lively’s Health and Safety Features for Seniors

• 5Star Urgent Response: If you are hurt or worried about your safety for any reason, you can get help with one tap on the service button to connect to a 5Star Urgent Response operator who will contact emergency services. This feature is a convenient medical alert system on your phone with access to emergency services. Having help so readily available helps you feel more secure, which can lead to a more active lifestyle.

• Operator: If you are having trouble with your phone and need help, press 0 to instantly connect to a live operator who can help.

• Urgent Care: If you need medical advice, the Urgent Care service connects you to a board-certified doctor or registered nurse.

• GreatCall Link: This app serves as a tracking device for your phone. You can designate a family member or friend to have access to GPS-based location services (via iOS or Android app on their phone), so they know where you are at any time.

• Handset Replacement: GreatCall replaces your phone if it’s ever lost, damaged beyond use or stolen.

Bottom Line

•  Jitterbug Smart2

There are many smartphones on the market, but only the Jitterbug Smart2 offers GreatCall’s array of senior-focused health and safety features. If you need the reassurance of these services, this phone provides peace of mind.

•  Jitterbug Smart3

When all is said and done, a Jitterbug Smart3 can’t replace a full-fledged medical alert system, many of which are waterproof, can be worn around the neck, and feature automatic fall detection. With falls being the main source of fatal injury to older adults, I think of fall detection as an essential feature of any bonafide medical alert system.

Still, what the Jitterbug Smart3 offers is a bridge between older adults and the modern smartphone. With its intuitive controls and added safety features, chances are this smartphone be great for any of your loved ones.

•  Jitterbug Flip2

The Jitterbug Flip for GreatCall is a fantastic phone for seniors or anyone who needs a super-simple device, thanks to its easy-to-navigate menu, highly visible display, and dedicated 5Star Urgent Response button.

Conclusion

While the three phones share overlapping services, they vary widely in options, extra features, and user experience. Consider your own lifestyle and preferences in a device to decide which phone is the best fit for your daily needs.

How to Purchase a Jitterbug Phone for Seniors？

Sign-Up Process

Signing up for your Jitterbug is as easy as purchasing your desired model from the Lively website. To get started with the Jitterbug Flip2 or Smart3, you won’t need to sign any long-term contracts. In fact, you have a 30-day trial to test out the device before you commit. If you don’t like the phone, you’re only out the $10 restocking fee.

Installation And Setup

Jitterbug phones do require a $35 activation fee. Once your phone arrives, head to the Lively site and click “activate now.” The website will guide you through the activation process, including transferring your existing number to your new phone.

Ease Of Use

Both Jitterbug phone models are made to be intuitive. Browse customer reviews and you’ll see the phrase “user-friendly” over and over. Between the large text, list menu, voice control, and large buttons, Lively phones are designed to win over users who might be intimidated by conventional smartphones.

Customer Service

Jitterbug’s customer support is built right into the phone’s design. The Personal Operator service calls on traditional operators, but this feature includes troubleshooting issues with the device, making calls, and even arranging Lyft rides.

24/7 Monitoring

In an emergency, users just push the Star button to connect to the 24/7 emergency monitoring center. After confirming your location and assessing the situation, the Jitterbug operator can summon the exact help you need, whether that’s a loved one to check in, professional medical help, roadside assistance, or even a locksmith.

FAQ

1.Why Should You Choose To Go with a Jitterbug Phone for Seniors?

These phones can be useful for older adults because of the larger buttons that are easier to see and touch. The added benefit of having a Health and Safety plan gives older adults and their loved ones peace of mind.

2.Can I keep my phone number when I get a Jitterbug?

Yes. Just be sure to contact Lively customer service before you activate your new phone. They can transfer your existing phone number to your new cell phone.

3.Does Jitterbug have good service?

It supports CDMA as well as LTE bands 4/13, which are the same as those found on Verizon’s entry-level phones. In our Fastest Mobile Networks testing, Verizon has consistently performed well, and we saw average network speed on the Jitterbug in midtown Manhattan. The call quality is excellent.

4.Is Jitterbug the best phone for seniors?

That’s why we recommend it to seniors who enjoy remaining in touch with relatives, particularly those who don’t have access to a landline. Voicemail, call waiting, caller ID, long distance, and roaming are all included on the plan. You’ll need to purchase a data option separately if you buy the Jitterbug Smart3.

5.Do Jitterbug phones have SIM cards?

Both a SIM card port and an SD card slot are located beneath the back panel, below the battery. To store images, users can add up to 16GB of memory to the on-board 16GB.

6.How do I activate my Jitterbug phone?

Call us at 1-866-482-1424 from your home or another phone. 2. Go to www.greatcall.com/activate to get started. When the website or operator is ready, you will be instructed to push the button.

7.Is it possible to use Jitterbug with my own phone?

Yes. Both the Jitterbug Flip2 and the Jitterbug Smart3 are fully functional phones that can make and receive calls.

8.What is the difference between Jitterbug Smart2 and Smart 3?

The Jitterbug Flip2 has 16 GB of built-in storage, while the Jitterbug Smart3 has 32 GB of built-in storage and up to 256 GB of expandable storage.

9.How Are Jitterbug Phones Different From Regular Phones?

The Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart3 are similar to many flip phones and smartphones. The big difference is that Lively cuts out complicated, unnecessary features—then it adds health features to keep users safe.

10.How much memory comes with each Lively cell phone model?

The Jitterbug Flip2 has 16 GB of built-in storage, while the Jitterbug Smart3 has 32 GB of built-in storage and up to 256 GB of expandable storage.

Read More:

Top 7 Smartphones for Live Streaming in 2025

Samsung Galaxy S21 vs. S21 Plus vs. iPhone 13 vs. 13 Pro: Full Comparison & Verdict 2025

OnePlus 9 vs. Samsung S21 vs. iPhone 13: Which is the Best Option in 2025?

Extrabux is an international cashback shopping site, offering up to 30% cashback from 10,000+ Stores!

Microsoft, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Alienware, Acer, Asus, Samsung, BestBuy, Walmart, Staples, Overstock, QVC, New Egg, Office Depot, eBay, etc.

Join to get $20 welcome bonus now! (How does Welcome Bonus work?)