Want to use full-size landline phone with cellphone SIM hub

Harry Hooper

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Jan 4, 2002
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I have an elderly relative with limited dexterity who needs a full-size traditional phone for voice calls only, but is in a location where connection to a cellphone network (either T-mobile of AT&T to be specific) would be much cheaper and less problematic. Internet VOIP is not an option either.

So far I have discovered this device






which may do the trick, but I was curious if anyone was aware of other options or had any advice. TIA.

In the interests of saving time, T-mobile's LineLink device needs an internet connection so that is out.

As a last resort, I would consider a large-button flip phone that comes with a recharging cradle {fidgeting with USB cables is not an option for recharging}. Again, it would have to work on AT&T or T-mobile backbone.
 

cgori

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Oct 2, 2004
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That's pretty much the kind of thing I would suggest (I have no familiarity with specific brands - I think a fair number of those devices are intended for use with home alarm systems though, in the event of cut landline wires, with only occasional use - so I have no idea how they perform as full-usage landline replacements).

If your relative would like to use the internet (say with an iPad or other tablet), you could do an LTE modem (example) and then some kind of VOIP device to connect the large-button phone, that way I think they could have both internet + voice over the LTE. If internet isn't of interest, then probably keep going down the path you are on.
 

Harry Hooper

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Jan 4, 2002
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Thanks for the responses!

Cell2jack is intriguing, but I had already arranged something with AT&T wireless. It's called the "wireless internet device" and is viewable here: www.att.com/buy/connected-devices-and-more/att-wireless-internet-black.html

The trick with this is you order it online and have to add a data plan, but then as you check out, you remove the data plan and keep the $20/month unlimited voice plan. Thank you, AT&T Wireless chat guy. Bought a new large-button home phone w/digital answering machine on sale at Target, who seem to be flushing all of their landline phone inventory.