Lively

Lively operates within the connected health technology sector, focusing on the senior population by providing accessible devices and services. The company's history began as GreatCall, founded in 2005 by Arlene Harris, who launched the first Jitterbug phone the same year. A significant milestone occurred in August 2018 when Best Buy acquired GreatCall for $800 million, integrating it into its Best Buy Health division. In May 2021, the company rebranded from GreatCall to Lively. Another entity also named Lively, a direct-to-consumer hearing aid provider founded in 2018, was acquired by GN Hearing in late 2021 and subsequently rebranded to Jabra Enhance in 2022.

Lively's business model is centered on a direct-to-consumer approach, targeting the growing market of Americans aged 65 and older. It functions as a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) on Verizon's network, offering cellular plans that start at an affordable price point, with data plans available for its smartphones. Revenue is generated through the sale of its specialized mobile phones and medical alert devices, coupled with monthly subscription plans for cellular service and value-added health and safety features. These subscription services include an Urgent Response button connecting users to certified agents 24/7, access to on-call nurses and doctors, and a Lively Link app that keeps family and friends informed.

The company’s product line is designed for simplicity and ease of use for seniors. Key products include the Jitterbug Flip2, a flip phone with a large screen and big buttons, and the Jitterbug Smart4, a smartphone with a simple, list-based menu and voice typing capabilities. Both phones feature powerful speakers and long-lasting batteries. Beyond phones, Lively offers the Lively Mobile Plus, a mobile personal emergency response system (mPERS) that provides a one-touch connection to agents who can dispatch emergency services or connect users with caregivers. This integrated ecosystem of hardware and services aims to enable older adults to live independently for longer while providing peace of mind to their families.

Keywords: connected health, senior technology, personal emergency response, medical alert devices, Jitterbug phones, mobile virtual network operator, senior cellular plans, active aging, independent living, telehealth services, Best Buy Health, GreatCall, emergency response services, senior-friendly smartphones, mobile health, assistive technology, remote patient monitoring, caregiver support, senior safety, healthcare technology