In the heels of calculators that look like iPods, come the newest innovation in gadgets that look like something else: the cell phone that resembles a calculator. Designed as a cell phone for the older generation who find today’s mobile offerings too complicated, the appropriately-called Handle Easy looks to provide the simplest handset imaginable.

Removing every possible complication present in a mobile phone, the Handle Easy 328gsm doesn’t send SMS, play music nor take pictures. All it does is call. With large buttons that use large numbers for easy reading, there is no way to mistype a number. The on-screen display uses a similarly large font. The handset is also notably large – 5 inches tall, 2.24 inches wide and 1/2 an inch thick – making it hard to misplace.

Apart from being able to make and receive calls, Handle Easy can also receive text messages. No sending functionality, however, since that may complicate the operation. A loudspeaker is built into the unit both for those hard of hearing and to facilitate hands-free communication.

The design and color scheme of the unit is actually very pleasant and tasteful. Build and materials are sturdy and top-notch.

A couple of problems exist however.

One, the intentional oversimplification of the phone rendered it unintuitive and difficult to understand the first few times you use it. Also, the letters in the buttons are way smaller than the numbers, potentially leaving the creation of phone book entries a difficult task for those hard of sight. Lastly, the menu navigation is side-mounted and small – seemingly counter to everything the phone has worked hard to achieve.

This phone is available in the UK only with a plan from Doro.