Life after 2G

SGIno Simple 3G - a simple and elderly-friendly phone

The SGIno Simple 3G phone is one of several 3G feature phones available here. It is targeted for seniors. ST PHOTO: JOYCE FANG

Unlike the other feature phones reviewed here, the SGIno Simple 3G (see graphic below) is designed for the elderly.

Hence, it has large buttons and large fonts to help those with poor eyesight.

Its speakers are louder than usual so users won't miss any phone calls.

In addition, it has an SOS button at the back.

Press and hold it for the phone to emit a loud siren.

Then it will send out emergency messages to a list of preset phone numbers, followed by the dialling of these numbers.

A useful feature for the absent-minded: a medication reminder setting to alert you to take your pills.

The round bump at the top is the torch.

Press and hold a button at the side to turn it on - there is no need to fiddle with menu settings.

Slide a handy switch at the side to lock the phone against accidental key presses.

Slide it the other direction to unlock it without having to press multiple keys, like in other feature phones.

I found calls to be muffled, compared with the other phones, which could be an issue for the hard of hearing.

The Simple 3G has two SIM-card slots. Only one of these is 3G-capable - the second SIM supports 2G networks.

It comes with a rudimentary Web browser with preset shortcuts for Facebook and YouTube.

But, obviously, the experience is sub-par with the phone's small 1.77-inch (128 x 160 pixels) screen and slow Internet speed.

At $88, it is reasonably priced for its unique features that cater to elderly users.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on March 29, 2017, with the headline SGIno Simple 3G - a simple and elderly-friendly phone. Subscribe