According to Chad Mumm, who cites information from the Consumer Product Safety Commission and The Consumerist, Samsung is recalling some of its Jitterbug cell phones - specifically, models SPH-a110 and SPH-a120 that were purchased between March 2008 and March 2009. These models are being recalled because they may not be able to connect to 911 if the caller is outside his/her service area. Luckily, this can be fixed with a simple service upgrade.
Jitterbug is specifically marketed toward senior citizens (according to its website, key features include hearing-aid compatibility and a keypad that resembles a home phone), which makes me wonder how this recall even came to be - especially since Jitterbug users can subscribe to a 'Live Nurse' service. For $4 a month, subscribers can speak with a network of RN's, who are available 24/7. As Mumm stated, "when you market a cell phone to senior citizens by touting a 'Live Nurse' option, you'd better darn well make sure that the 911 service works."
Samsung's Jitterbug recall demonstrates the importance of thoroughly testing products before putting them on the market. Even if their functionality seems to be a given, important details, such as a cell phone's ability to connect to 911, should always be checked.
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If you purchased a Jitterbug SPH-a110 or SPH-a120 between March 2008 and March 2009, contact Samsung at 866-304-4980.
For Samsung's safety notice: Letter from Customer Care
For Chad Mumm's switched.com article: Samsung Recalling Jitterbug Cell Phones That Don't Connect to 911
For Lucy Bayly's Consumerist article: Samsung Recalling Some Jitterbug Cell Phones; Potential Failure to Connect To 911
Image: jitterbug.com
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