New Cell phone for Seniors: Samsung Gusto 2 From Verizon Wireless

It's been some time since we posted a senior-friendly phone from Verizon Wireless so I think it's time to feature a handset from the carrier's line-up. After all, it's the largest US carrier with a significant number of elderly subscribers and offers one of the best cell phone plans for seniors.

This time we will look at the Samsung Gusto 2, a new phone that is set to become available for $79.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate with a new two-year customer agreement. This handset is also available with online retailers who may offer a more favorable price for seniors and other consumers.

This is not the first Gusto we have featured in this blog. The original Samsung Gusto was also featured here as a possible option for seniors.

The Gusto 2 is a sleek clam shell style cell phone with simple features. In fact, simplicity is being marketed as one of the strengths of this phone. Verizon's official press release for the device calls it as a device where "Simplicity Meets Style." Well, style is not a priority for a cell phone for senior citizens but simplicity certainly is one of the most important attributes. The elderly do not need a phone that can send emails or work as a 3G hotspot. They need a handset that can reliably make and receive calls or send a few text messages.Well, the Samsung Gusto 2 is a good device for consumers that only want to focus on making calls to friends and family. it's a basic device with a simple menu that can easily allow users to dial numbers.

Speaking of dialing numbers, this cell phone sports a contoured keypad with large buttons that make it easy to press numbers. The directional keys can be customized to provide quick access to contacts plus the one-touch shortcut keys can be programmed to quickly get in touch with emergency contacts.

It also offers a Sound Alert Mode, which changes the volume automatically to high and reads contact information aloud when a call or message is received. This features id useful for senior users with weak hearing.

A few images:

Here's a list of the features that contribute in making this phone suitable for seniors:

• 2-inch main display
• speakerphone
• adjustable display font
• voice-enabled menu and submenus

This phone also offers a few bonus features which are not really needed by seniors but are nice t have on your phone. It provides Bluetooth technology, 1.3-megapixel camera, mobile Web, and VZ Navigator.

What do you think of this device? Is it good enough to top the best cell phones for seniors in the market?