MWC 2009 was not all about high tech mobile devices, like the Toshiba TG01 or Sony Ericsson Idou, but also innovative handsets destined to niche markets, like the segment of elderly folks. Doro, specialist in phones designed for use by the elderly and those with disabilities, has released four new handsets in its PhoneEasy range, the 334gsm, 338gsm, 342gsm and 345gsm. Although the names may not be catchy, the concept is- they’re phones designed to be accessible to those that might have trouble with phones from other manufacturers. A particular focus is put on the senior market, and the design is set to match.

As you might imagine, these new Doro phones aren’t going to be challenging Nokia or Sony Ericsson in terms of their feature sets, but they do all include an FM radio and integrated torch. Perhaps more interesting, considering the intended demographic, is that all of them feature upgraded compatibility with hearing aids.
This doesn’t mean they come with Vera Lynn ringtones and a holder for knitting needles, but rather that the buttons are larger than usual and the high-contrast colour schemes are designed for maximum visibility. Doro’s new handsets support Bluetooth and come with high volume and a necklace cord, so it can stay with its user anytime, anywhere.
Doro still stresses that the range is intended to populated with ‘good looking’ phones, and the choice between candy bar and clamshell designs, thanks to the flip-phone 410gsm which will be available in June, does show a certain consideration for aesthetics.

The Doro PhoneEasy 338 follows on from the success of the Doro Handle Easy 328 and has been improved to make it even easier to use. It has a white on black screen with large text and fonts, ideal for people with limited dexterity; the Doro phone easy has 3 big preset buttons A B C which can be programmed to call three numbers.
The Doro PhoneEasy 342 gsm follows on from the success of the Doro Handle Easy 330gsm and has been improved to make it even easier to use.
It has a full colour large bright clear screen with large text and fonts, ideal for visually impaired, the Doro phone easy 342 has direct access to the menu from the large central rubber button, the Doro Phone Easy 342 has an emergency alarm button on the rear. The 345gsm comes with a 300 memory phone book and can send and receive SMS text messages.
These new phones are available online from Parkway Telecom and RNIB, or from select high street shops, and are priced between £100 and £130 SIM free. The upcoming clamshell 410gsm and Handleplus 334gsm, which is designed for those with more severe care needs, will be out in June.

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