Many cell phones with voice-activated controls let you make calls or send texts with just the sound of your voice. If navigating a phone is difficult for you due to vision loss or dexterity problems, a voice-activated phone can help you stay connected. These devices are easy to use and no more expensive than a typical cell phone.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best voice-activated cell phones for seniors, along with their pros, cons, and features. We’ll also cover costs and what you can expect to pay for a compatible cell phone plan. Now, let’s dive in!
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Chose the Best Voice-Activated Phones for Seniors
Using Jitterbug Smart4’s voice navigation feature
Voice-activated phones are great if you have trouble with dexterity, vision, or just navigating a phone. We chose the phones on this list because they all have some level of voice commands. They also have other accessibility features (including hearing aid integration), great sound quality, and senior-friendly features. We also looked at price and value, features like emergency services, and cell phone plan costs.
Our senior tech experts (including my grandma and me) conducted over 150 hours of research and testing to narrow the list to our top picks. We tested each phone for a week, taking notes on our experience.
We also used three specific parameters to compare each phone:
- Voice activation: Our team tested out the voice activation features on every phone to see what they could do and how well they work. We tried out everything from the simplicity of initiating voice commands to the types of things we could (and couldn’t) do with our voices.
- Pricing: Cost isn’t always as simple as the retail price. Many mobile carriers offer financing, or you may be able to get your phone for free when you sign a contract. There are also various ways to take advantage of trade-in and senior discounts. We looked at each phone and paired it with a carrier that could offer the best value and prices to seniors.
- Health and safety features: A phone isn’t just a way to contact friends and family. It’s also a lifeline and, potentially, a way to keep track of your health and well-being. We tested each phone’s health and safety features, including step tracking, measuring fitness levels, and contacting emergency services.
The Best Voice-Activated Cell Phones for Seniors
- Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Best flip phone
- Moto G 5G from Consumer Cellular - Most affordable smartphone
- Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively - Best health and safety features
- Apple iPhone SE from Mint Mobile - Best budget-friendly iPhone
- Samsung Galaxy S23 from Visible - Best phone for smart home voice control
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1. Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Best flip phone
See Pricing
Call for best price: Call to Order: 866-461-7793
What we like most
- Easy-to-use design
- Affordable flip phone
- Clear, crisp speaker
Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
Call for best price: Call to Order: 866-461-7793
See Pricing
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.5
Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing excellent excellent excellent excellent excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Overview:
Navigating the Jitterbug Flip2
Overview
Looking for a voice-activated flip phone? The Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively fits the bill. This pocket-sized phone costs $99.99, making it a budget-friendly option. It has a big screen, clear speakers, and large, tactile buttons. I like that the Jitterbug Flip2 uses Amazon Alexa for voice controls. I’ve used many Alexa-enabled smart speakers over the years, so I was already familiar with the voice assistant. If you’re also familiar with Alexa, it’ll make using the phone’s voice assistant a breeze. I could make calls, send texts, and check my phone’s battery level using my voice.
» Related Reading: 2024 Jitterbug Phone Review
To enjoy all that the Jitterbug Flip2 offers, I’d recommend upgrading to the Preferred or Premium phone plan. These two plans offer useful health and safety features, such as access to the Lively Link mobile app and a 24/7 Urgent Response center. Using the app, I checked the phone’s location and status. If an emergency occurred, I could use the Urgent Response button to call for help. That’s a huge bonus for seniors who don’t want to buy a separate medical alert device.
» Just in Case: Best medical alert systems of 2024
Pros & Cons:
Pros About Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
- Alexa-enabled voice controls
- Easy to use
- Clear, crisp speaker
- Affordable price
- Health and safety features available
- Simple design
Cons About Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
- Limited voice command features
- No internet access
- You must have an Amazon account to use Alexa voice commands
Summary:
Pricing
The Jitterbug Flip2 costs $99.99, while Lively phone plans cost $19.99 to $49.99 per month. All plans come with unlimited talk and text. If you want access to the health and safety features, you’ll need the Preferred or Premium package. While they’re more expensive, I think they’re well worth the peace of mind that their features offer.
I’ve noticed that Lively occasionally runs sales that could help you save even more. The only downside to a Jitterbug phone is that you can’t use it with another carrier. For example, the Samsung Galaxy S23 and iPhone SE can be unlocked and paired with most major carriers. With the Jitterbug Flip2 or Jitterbug Smart4, you can only choose one of Lively’s plans. Still, Lively is a great option if you just want a simple phone to stay connected and protected.
» Related Reading: Best Unlocked Phones for Seniors
Voice Activation
Since it’s a flip phone, I knew the Jitterbug Flip2 wouldn’t be as advanced as the smartphones on this list. And that’s not a bad thing! It keeps things simple on purpose. I found that the voice-activated features were easy to use. You can use the built-in Amazon Alexa assistant as long as you have an Amazon account (which is free to set up).
However, the phone does not have internet access. So, if you want to ask who won the Super Bowl last year, you’re out of luck. If you want to do more with voice commands, like send emails or ask for directions, I’d recommend Lively’s Jitterbug Smart4 (more on this phone later!).
» Home Internet Help: Best Internet Service for Seniors in 2024
My grandma was a little disappointed with the lack of voice command features on the Jitterbug Flip2, but we were both happy with the performance. I used the simple, list-style menu to find the “Ask Alexa” icon to activate the voice assistant. When I clicked on this icon, I was prompted to ask a question or say a command. While Alexa understood me with a few issues, I realized I needed to keep my requests very simple to get the desired results.
Health and Safety Features
Health and safety features set the Jitterbug Flip2 apart from most other flip phones — if you’re willing to pay more. With the Basic plan ($19.99 monthly), the Flip2 acts like a regular cell phone. If you upgrade to the Preferred plan ($39.99 per month), you get 24/7 Urgent Response monitoring (activated by clicking the big red button) and the Lively Link app for caregivers and loved ones. The Premium plan ($49.99 per month) has the same features as the Preferred plan, plus a personalized care advocate and an on-call nurse who can answer your medical questions.
» Learn More: Jitterbug Flip2 Review
I tested out the Urgent Response feature by pressing the large red button at the bottom of the phone’s keyboard. In about 30 seconds, I was connected to a live agent who asked if I needed help. This feature is great for any emergencies, whether you experience a fall, get lost, or have a flat tire. It can offer peace of mind for both the user and their loved ones.
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2. Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T - Best phone with Google integration
See Pricing
What we like most
- Large display
- Advanced smartphone
- Excellent speaker
Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T
See Pricing
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Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing excellent above average above average above average below average Please scroll to the right for more info.
Overview:
Google Pixel 8 Pro
Overview
The Google Pixel 8 Pro is one of the best Android phones on the market. The phone’s camera quality blew me away, with a 50 MP rear camera and a 10.5 MP front-facing (selfie) camera. The Pixel 8 Pro also has a large, easy-to-read display — perfect for older eyes. It has a two-day battery life, a high-speed operating system (a whopping 12 GB of RAM), and crisp, clear speakers. If you’re looking for a smartphone with all the bells and whistles, it’s a great option.
» Also Check Out: Best Cell Phones for Seniors With Hearing Loss
The Google Pixel 8 Pro includes Google Voice Assistant. Once I turned this on in the phone’s settings, I could use Google Voice to call contacts, search the web, dictate text, and more. It’s very simple to use with the command “Hey Google.” I didn’t have to press any buttons to use the voice assistant. As long as the phone was on and nearby, I could say, “Hey, Google,” and then command away! That is unique, as many phones still require pressing a button to use the voice assistant.
Pros & Cons:
Pros About Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T
- Google Voice Assistant is easy to use
- No button inputs for voice activation
- 12 GB of RAM
- Syncs well with Google Apps
- High-quality cameras
- Large, easy-to-read display
- Good battery life
- Excellent speakers
Cons About Google Pixel 8 Pro from AT&T
- Can get warm when used heavily
- On the pricier side
Summary:
Pricing
At $1,039.99, the Google Pixel 8 Pro is not cheap; it’s over $200 more than the second-most-expensive phone on this list (Samsung Galaxy S23). That said, it packs a lot of features into one device. So, if you’re a tech-savvy senior who wants an advanced smartphone, it’s worth the price. There are also plenty of ways to save with AT&T, one of my favorite phone carriers for seniors. If you have an eligible phone to trade in and don’t mind committing to a three-year plan, you can get your Google Pixel 8 Pro for free.
Pro Tip:
Pro Tip: Want to get a phone without spending a dime? Check out our guides to the best free phones for seniors!
If you don’t want to trade in your phone, you can also finance the Google Pixel 8 Pro with zero interest for as little as $28.89 monthly. If you live in Florida, I recommend pairing this smartphone with . It starts at $60 per month for one line and offers unlimited talk, text, and data. While I’m bummed that this plan is available only in the Sunshine State, AT&T still has great deals on its standard unlimited plans outside of Florida.
Voice Activation
Google Voice Assistant makes it easy to search the web, get directions, and send text messages without typing. In my experience, using the voice assistant was really simple. When the phone was turned on, I could either hold down the power button or say, “Hey, Google,” for the assistant icon to appear. Then, I could make my request. For example, I asked the phone to text a friend. I was then prompted to say what I wanted the text to say. Then, Google sent the text. I was able to do it all without pressing a single button!
» Shopping Tip: The Best Android Phones for Seniors
I also tried setting timers, setting reminders, requesting directions, and asking the phone to take photos. For instance, I could say, “Take a selfie photo in 10 seconds.” The phone would confirm it had heard the command and open the camera app. Then, it displayed a large countdown timer to let me know how much time was left until it snapped the photo. I was impressed with how advanced Google Voice Assistant was. It definitely outperformed the comparatively simple voice commands on the Jitterbug Flip2.
There were only a few times when the Google Pixel 8 Pro’s voice assistant let me down. For instance, I wanted to see just how complex I could make my requests. I tried planning my dream vacation to Europe using Google Voice Assistant alone. It was just able to provide information about flight and hotel prices. When I pressed it for more information about flight routes or hotel room amenities, it couldn’t help me. So, while Google Voice Assistant can do a lot for you, it can’t do everything.
Health and Safety Features
The Google Pixel 8 Pro includes a preloaded Personal Safety app featuring an SOS button. This is great for seniors. I opened the app and held down the SOS button for three seconds. Then, my phone called 911, shared my location with my emergency contacts and even began recording a video. While it may not always be easy to open the app and hold down the button during an emergency, this feature can give peace of mind to older adults.
If you drive (or are a passenger), the Google Pixel 8 Pro can even detect collisions. If a crash is detected, the phone will immediately call 911. While it doesn’t have built-in fall detection, you can get this feature if you combine your Google Pixel 8 Pro with a Google Pixel Watch. These features are pretty solid, considering they don’t cost extra, like Lively’s health and safety features.
» Related Resource: Best Medical Alert Watches of 2024
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3. Moto G 5G from Consumer Cellular - Most affordable smartphone
See Pricing
Call for best price: Call to Order: (855) 643-4847
What we like most
- Simple design
- Affordable smartphone
- Includes wired headphone jack
Moto G 5G from Consumer Cellular
Call for best price: Call to Order: (855) 643-4847
See Pricing
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.0
Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing above average average above average above average excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Overview:
Motorola Moto G 5G
Overview
Priced at $179, the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 is one of the least expensive smartphones on our list. But it doesn’t skimp on quality features! Like the Google Pixel 8 Pro, the Moto G 5G uses Google Assistant for voice commands. That’s excellent for those with mobility or dexterity issues.
FYI:
FYI: Are you shopping for a cell phone on a tight budget? Check out our guide to the cheapest cell phones for seniors.
This smartphone has plenty of other things to love besides the price tag. It has a large, 6.5-inch high-definition screen; loud Dolby speakers; and a 48 MP camera. It also has an old-fashioned headphone jack, which is increasingly difficult to come by. Apple phones, including the iPhone SE, have completely discontinued this feature. If you prefer a jack because you use wired headphones, the Moto G 5G is a great option.
Pros & Cons:
Pros About Moto G 5G from Consumer Cellular
- Affordable price
- Built-in Google assistant
- Includes a wired headphone jack
- Good overall value
- Clear sound quality
- 48 MP camera system
Cons About Moto G 5G from Consumer Cellular
- Limited advanced features
- Can get slow with heavy usage
Summary:
Pricing
The Moto G 5G costs just $179, and Consumer Cellular plans start at $20 per month. This will save you a bundle if you want a smartphone that isn’t too fancy. Plus, if you finance your phone through Consumer Cellular, you can pay as little as $7 per month with $11 down and no interest. It’s a great mid-tier option if you don’t want the more advanced features of the Samsung Galaxy S23 or Google Pixel 8 Pro.
» For More Information: Consumer Cellular Cell Phone Plan Review 2024
Voice Activation
Since the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 uses Google Voice Assistant, it’s powered by the same software that I experienced on the Google Pixel 8 Pro. That said, the Moto G 5G 2023 is not nearly as powerful as the Google Pixel 8 Pro. The former has only 4 GB of RAM (the same as the iPhone SE), while the latter boasts 12 GB of RAM. This means that making voice commands and getting accurate responses is a bit slower on the Moto G 5G 2023.
To start a voice command, I just said, “Hey, Google” (even when the phone was on the lock screen). Then, I asked questions or made requests. Alternatively, I could hit the speaker icon on the home screen. Either way, Google Voice Assistant was easy to use, even though it took a few seconds longer to respond than the Google Pixel 8 Pro. If you want a more advanced phone with Google Voice Assistant and you have room for it in your budget, I’d recommend upgrading to the Google Pixel 8 Pro.
Health and Safety Features
Unlike the iPhone SE or Lively’s phones, there aren’t many health and safety features built into the Motorola Moto G 5G. There are tons of apps on Google Play for tracking steps, monitoring sleep patterns, and even helping you keep up with your medication schedule, but I had to find those on my own.
» App Guide: Social Distancing: Apps for Seniors (Tech-Savvy or Not)
That said, the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023 can still double as an emergency response device — if you know where to look. I could contact emergency responders by either swiping up on the lock screen and pressing the Emergency icon, or holding the power button and pressing the same icon. While these are useful features, they aren’t much better than just picking up your phone and dialing 911.
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4. Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively - Best health and safety features
See Pricing
Call for best price: Call to Order: 866-461-7793
What we like most
- Smartphone designed specifically for seniors
- Built-in medical response capabilities
- Voice-to-text functionality
Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively
Call for best price: Call to Order: 866-461-7793
See Pricing
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.5
Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing excellent excellent excellent excellent excellent Please scroll to the right for more info.
Overview:
My grandma trying out the Jitterbug Smart4
Overview
The Jitterbug Smart4 takes all of the great health and safety features of the Flip2 and puts them in a smartphone. It still has a simple, list-style menu that’s easy to navigate, but adds features like internet browsing, GPS navigation, email, and voice typing.
» Dive Deeper: Jitterbug Smart4 Review
If you’re looking to strike a balance between modern tech and senior-friendliness, the Jitterbug Smart4 is a great choice. My grandma didn’t need any help navigating the simple menu or using the voice assistant. Plus, if you upgrade to a higher-tier Lively phone plan, you can use the phone’s big red Urgent Response button to get help. This will connect you with an agent at a Lively call center who already has information about your health and medical history. They can send whatever help you need during an emergency.
Pros & Cons:
Pros About Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively
- Voice typing
- Specifically designed for seniors
- Internet access
- Loudspeakers
- Simple navigation and list-style menu
- Large, 6.75-inch screen
- Triple-camera system
- Urgent Response button
Cons About Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively
- Voice command responses are slow
- May be too basic for some seniors
- Extra cost for Urgent Response and safety features
Summary:
Pricing
The Jitterbug Smart4 costs $149.99, making it the most affordable smartphone on this list. And like the Flip2, the Smart4 is frequently on sale, so keep your eyes peeled. You’ll need to pair the Smart4 with a Lively plan, as it’s not compatible with any other carriers. Phone plans range from $19.99 to $49.99 per month.
» Related Reading: Lively Pricing Guide
One difference between the Smart4 and Flip2 is that the Smart4 requires a data plan. All three of Lively’s plans include unlimited text and calling, but you’ll need to add a separate data plan since the phone has internet access. These data plans range from $5 per month (1 GB) to $30 per month (unlimited data).
Voice Activation
While the Jitterbug Flip2 uses a limited version of Amazon Alexa, the Jitterbug Smart4 uses Google Voice Assistant (my personal favorite). I held the phone near me and said, “Hey, Google,” to ask questions, set alarms, change settings, and more. I could also navigate to the Google Assistant app in the phone’s list-style menu.
Using Jitterbug Smart4’s voice navigation feature
The downside is that the Smart4 is a relatively simple and pared-down smartphone, especially compared to the Google Pixel 8 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S23. It runs pretty slow, with or without voice commands. As a result, my grandma and I often had to wait for 10 seconds or longer when we asked a question or made a request. For example, my grandma asked for GPS directions to the nearest pharmacy. It took the phone nearly 30 seconds to bring up the results. This was far slower than what we experienced with the other smartphones on this list.
» Check Out: Jitterbug Smart4 Review
What makes the Smart4 stand out for seniors is the intuitive voice texting. When I opened the keyboard to send a text, I could tap the little microphone icon to the left of where the text appears. Then, I said aloud what I wanted to text. The Smart4 got 95 percent of what I said correct on the first try. There were a few minor mistakes here and there, but I was pleasantly surprised that the feature picked up my words quickly and accurately.
Health and Safety Features
Like the Jitterbug Flip2, the Smart4 is packed with health and safety features if you upgrade to Lively’s Preferred or Premium plan. I could use the phone’s Urgent Response button to call for help, share my activity and location with loved ones via the Lively Link app, and even get medical advice from a care advocate or on-call nurse. I tested out the big Urgent Response icon on the Smart4 home screen and was connected to a Lively agent in less than 15 seconds. Talk about peace of mind!
I’m a big fan of the Lively Link mobile app. I tested it out while my grandma was on a walk. I could see her location on a map, the phone’s status, and updates from the past week. This is great for caregivers or family members who want to check in without nagging their older loved one.
Tracking my grandmas location using the Lively Link mobile app
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5. Apple iPhone SE from Mint Mobile - Best budget-friendly iPhone
See Pricing
What we like most
- Excellent camera
- Affordable iPhone model
- Sleek design
Apple iPhone SE from Mint Mobile
See Pricing
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.5
Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing above average above average excellent excellent above average Please scroll to the right for more info.
Overview:
Testing out the iPhone SE
Overview
If you’re already familiar with Apple devices, you should consider the iPhone SE. It’s a smaller, simpler iPhone with less advanced features than the latest models, at a much more affordable price of $429. This makes it a great middle-ground option between cheaper smartphones like the Jitterbug Smart4 and more expensive ones like the Google Pixel 8 Pro. Plus, the iPhone has tons of senior-friendly features, and it is easy to pair with most hearing aids.
» For iPhone Users: Best Made for iPhone Hearing Aids
The iPhone SE has all of the voice features you’ll find with more expensive iPhones. You can use Siri to navigate the phone or use accessibility features to send texts, read your messages, and help you navigate the phone. It’s also a smaller phone, which is great for tucking in pockets and small purses.
Pros & Cons:
Pros About Apple iPhone SE from Mint Mobile
- Includes Siri and voice accessibility
- Apple’s easy-to-use user interface
- Good battery life
- Affordable price tag
- Good camera quality
- 5G capability
Cons About Apple iPhone SE from Mint Mobile
- Small screen
- Siri is not as intuitive as Google Voice Assistant
Summary:
Pricing
If you love iPhones but don’t want the bulk or the cost of a more expensive model, the SE is a great option. It’s pretty affordable at $429. If you buy one through Apple, you can score zero-interest financing for as little as $17.87 per month. The iPhone SE also pairs well with Mint Mobile’s 55+ plan, which starts at $15 per month. It features 5G service, unlimited talk and text, and 5 GB of data per month. For comparison, Lively charges $29.99 per month for 5 GB of data and a Basic plan. In other words, you could cut your bill in half with Mint Mobile.
» Learn More: Mint Mobile Senior Phone Plan Review 2024
You can buy your phone through Mint Mobile and finance it via a third-party provider like Affirm. This would allow you to get zero-interest financing on your iPhone SE starting at $18 per month. This is a solid option for those on a tight budget.
Voice Activation
Using voice commands on the iPhone SE is very simple. You can either say, “Hey, Siri,” or hold the home button to bring up the voice assistant. From there, you can make calls, compose and send texts, check the weather, or ask whatever is on your mind. My grandma and I enjoyed asking questions on a variety of topics. I even asked Siri to tell me a joke, and it did!
Asking Siri a joke on the iPhone SE
One thing I liked about using Siri was that it was easy to turn off and on. There’s nothing more annoying than accidentally saying something that Siri picks up, and then having your phone open an app or make a call you didn’t want. With the iPhone SE, I could tell Siri to “go to sleep.” When I was ready to use voice commands again, I asked Siri to “wake up.” This is a useful feature that you can’t get with simpler phones like the Jitterbug Smart4.
Health and Safety Features
I’ve found that Apple makes its devices useful to many types of users. There are tons of features to track and monitor health, keep you safe in an emergency, and make the device more accessible. The preloaded Health app kept track of my mobility and sleep patterns. I could also contact emergency services by holding down the volume and power button and then swiping the SOS icon to the right. If you have an Apple Watch, you can even keep track of your heart rate, blood-oxygen levels, and other health data.
» Learn About: The Best Smartwatches for Seniors
If you have vision or hearing loss, the iPhone SE has tons of accessibility features. For instance, the VoiceOver feature allowed me to hear everything that was displayed on the screen. This is great if you struggle to read text or see images on the 4.7-inch screen. You can also pair most hearing aids with the iPhone SE or use the RTT call feature to read what’s being said.
Using the iPhone’s accessibility features for those with hearing loss
I would have liked to see a headphone jack, especially since this used to be standard with smartphones. My grandma enjoys listening to music using wired headphones, but she couldn’t do this with the iPhone SE since the phone works with Bluetooth headphones only. If you want a phone with a wired headphone jack, I’d recommend the Motorola Moto G 5G 2023.
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6. Samsung Galaxy S23 from Visible - Best phone for smart home voice control
View Packages
What we like most
- Built-in personal voice assistant
- Durable design
- Bright display
Samsung Galaxy S23 from Visible
View Packages
SeniorLiving.org Rating 4.5
Ease of use Equipment Service & Response Features & Tech Pricing above average above average excellent excellent average Please scroll to the right for more info.
Overview:
Galaxy S23
Overview
The Samsung Galaxy S23 is a unique smartphone that lets you control your phone and other smart home devices with the sound of your voice. It comes equipped with Bixby, your personal voice assistant. I could use Bixby to turn on more accessibility features, search the web, tell jokes, and even control connected Samsung devices (like a smart TV). If you have mobility issues, these advanced voice-activated features are excellent for controlling devices around the home.
» You Might Like: Best Home Security Systems for Seniors in [Month] [Year]
I also love the Samsung Galaxy S23’s bright display and low-light camera features, which are easy on the eyes. The S23 is also really tough and durable. So, if you have trouble holding onto things, this phone can take a few drops (and even survive a few puddles too).
Pros & Cons:
Pros About Samsung Galaxy S23 from Visible
- Bixby personal voice assistant
- Stylish smartphone
- Integrates with Samsung smart home devices
- Tough and durable design
- Brightly lit screen
- 50 MP camera
- Fast mobile processor
Cons About Samsung Galaxy S23 from Visible
- Price tag is a little high
- Slow charging
Summary:
Pricing
If you want to use your voice to control your phone and other smart home devices, the Samsung Galaxy S23 can do it all. Imagine using your phone to make phone calls, change the TV channel, or start the washing machine — all with your voice. However, these conveniences come at a price.
The Samsung Galaxy S23 isn’t cheap, retailing for $799. But, if you can afford the phone itself, Visible phone plans start at just $30 per month, which is a great deal. Like Mint Mobile, you can get zero-interest financing via Affirm if you purchase your Galaxy S23 through Visible. This means you could pay as little as $22.19 per month for your phone.
Voice Activation
Even if you’re unfamiliar with Samsung devices, it’s pretty easy to use the Bixby personal voice assistant. All I had to do was pick up the phone and say, “Hi, Bixby.” While Google Voice Assistant on the Google Pixel 8 Pro was my favorite, Bixby on the Samsung Galaxy S23 is a close second. I didn’t encounter anything that Bixby couldn’t do, from standard commands like making calls and sending texts to more nuanced requests like adjusting screen brightness and controlling the camera’s zoom feature.
» For Samsung Users: Best Samsung Phones for Seniors
The only real downside of using Bixby to control compatible smart home devices is that it’s built to work with Samsung devices specifically. Google Voice Assistant has a larger ecosystem of compatible devices, even though it takes extra time to get all of them connected. The good news is that Bixby can work with non-Samsung devices (with a little extra effort). For example, I could get Bixby’s voice commands on a Sony smart TV.
Health and Safety Features
Like the iPhone SE, the Samsung Galaxy S23 has a built-in health app for tracking your fitness and health goals. I could even download other Samsung apps to check my blood pressure. The Samsung Galaxy S23 also has an emergency SOS feature, though you need to set it up. To do this, I opened the settings app, tapped “Advanced features,” and pressed “Send SOS messages.” Then, I switched “Send SOS messages” on. The phone prompted me to select the recipients of SOS messages from my contacts.
Once I enabled the emergency SOS feature, I could tap the power button at least three times to send an SOS message to my emergency contacts. The message included my precise location, photos taken from the front and rear cameras, and a five-second audio clip. I tested this feature out, and it worked very quickly.
What Is a Voice-Activated Phone?
A voice-activated phone can be operated using voice commands instead of buttons. You can use your voice to:
- Make phone calls
- Write or read text messages
- Search the web
- Get the weather forecast
- Plan a route via GPS
- Open apps
- Have your phone read your screen to you
- Use accessibility features
It’s important to note that not all voice-activated cell phones allow you to speak and make things happen without any other inputs. With some voice-activated phones, you’ll need to press a button to bring up the voice assistant or let the phone know that you’re issuing a command. The process differs a little with each phone.
How to Choose the Best Voice-Activated Phone for You
Any of these voice-activated phones will get the basic job done, so how do you choose the best phone for you? Here are a few questions to ask as you shop:
- How much can your voice assistant do? Some phones offer more voice-assisted features than others, such as screen reading and simple dictation.
- Do you want a phone that offers emergency services, such as 24/7 monitoring and an on-call nurse?
- Do the costs for the monthly plan and phone fit in your budget?
- Do you want premium services or just basic talk and text?
- Do you want a smartphone to search the web and use apps? Or are you just looking for a basic phone to stay connected?
Frequently Asked Questions About Voice-Activated Phones
- How do I turn on the voice-activated menu?
Every phone is different. In most cases, you’ll either use the Voice Assistant, such as Siri or Alexa or go into accessibility settings to turn on Voice Assist. You can usually activate Siri by saying, “Hey, Siri,” or Google Voice Assistant by saying, “Hey, Google.”
- Do you need to have a smartphone to use voice assist?
No. Some phones, like the Jitterbug Flip2, are not smartphones but still feature a voice assistant.
- How does the Samsung S23 control my home appliances?
If you have smart home appliances, such as a Samsung TV, you can set your voice assistant to control them using the Samsung app. However, you must have smart appliances for this feature to work.
- Are voice-activated phones more expensive?
No. Being voice-activated does not necessarily make a phone more expensive. Other features, such as size, camera quality, and speed, affect the price more. Many phones have some level of voice activation within their accessibility features.
- Do I need internet access to use my voice-activated phone?
It depends. If you use Siri or Google for voice assistance, you may need to have internet access. On the other hand, if you use the phone’s accessibility services, like the built-in voice assist, you don’t need internet access.
- Do I have to pay additional fees for voice-activated phone plans?
No. Most phones include the use of voice activation in the cost of the phone. The exception is Lively, which requires an Amazon account to use the Alexa features (though you can get an Amazon account for free).
