Vodacom’s latest release, the ZTE S302, doesn’t feature GPS, 3G connectivity or Wi-Fi. There’s no 3” capacitive touch-screen, push-email or five megapixel camera to fawn over, and no, it doesn’t sync with Outlook or iTunes. Instead the ZTE S302 is about as uncomplicated as a cellphone can be, aimed squarely at users with specific needs.

The screen and keypad display the symbols large enough not to struggle reading it, while someone with limited hand dexterity can more easily use the extra large keys on the keypad. One of the more interesting features is the addition of a SOS button, which can be pre-programmed to SMS up to three people in case of an emergency. If there’s no response, the phone will start calling these numbers in a three-way cycle.

At R399, which includes a Vodacom starter pack, it’s also cheap, plus it can ring really loudly. For more information on the ZTE S302 or any other Specific Needs products and services, call Vodacom’s Specific Needs call centre on 12580 (free from a Vodacom cellphone) or on 082 12580 from any other phone (standard rates apply).