Ericsson and Orange are using their IoT expertise to help keep seniors connected with family, friends, and caregivers in what could be a very lonely time.

The COVID-19 pandemic is cruel in so many ways. Beyond the physical health impacts – including the long-term effects we’re only just beginning to understand – it is also causing financial burdens, mental health issues, and feelings of isolation.

Many youngsters are tech-savvy and already use means such as online gaming to help remain connected, but there are many in older generations that feel completely disconnected and left behind.

GrandPad is a tablet designed specifically for seniors to connect with the wider world through simple video calling, voice, text and email, and easy photo sharing. It even supports a person’s individual interests with unlimited music, streaming radio, news, games, and more.

Scott Lien, Co-Founder and CEO of GrandPad, said:

“Mobile devices have been a lifesaver during COVID-19, but challenges around WiFi, including its availability and reliability, often prevent older adults from consistently using these technologies. Fortunately, every GrandPad connected tablet comes with built-in LTE service, which removes this barrier.

We’re thrilled to announce this partnership – especially at this critical time – because it gives GrandPad users in the UK and Ireland access to broad network coverage and fast, secure and reliable 4G LTE.”

GrandPad uses LTE for connectivity while Orange Belgium delivers cellular IoT connectivity management services for the tablet devices.

Werner De Laet, Chief Enterprise, Innovation, and Wholesale officer of Orange Belgium, commented:

“As a responsible operator, we are fully committed to supporting technologies that benefit society. The GrandPad initiative is a great example of the kind of use cases we want to promote.

Our expertise in IoT services and the strength and reliability of our network solutions allow people to better connect with their families, loved ones, and to enjoy entertainment or access information.”

The whole system is powered by Ericsson’s IoT Accelerator. The platform aims to support enterprises in deploying cost-efficient IoT technologies at any scale.

Kiva Allgood, Head of IoT at Ericsson, said:

“Our technology can help shorten the social and physical distance that the elderly and families are experiencing right now.

Together with Orange Belgium and GrandPad, our global IoT platform delivers easy and secure device connectivity to ensure GrandPad users stay connected in this time of change.”

With the current changes to our lives likely to continue for the foreseeable future, connected devices will be increasingly relied upon to maintain some degree of normality.