Alcove Sensor & Carephone

Do I need Internet?

For best performance and to ensure good quality video calling, you will need a Broadband Internet connection. The Alcove Carephone comes with an Alcove Controller which connects to your Broadband router using an Ethernet cable. You can puchase an embedded SIM if you do not have wifi in this webshop.

How do I add or change my contacts?

When you buy the Alcove Carephone, you will be guided through a process to set up all your contacts (and any message or reminders you’d like sent to it) before delivery. You will need names, images, email addresses and/or phone numbers. You can change your contacts at any time by contacting Alcove support via email, webchat or phone.

What do my contacts need to call into the Alcove Carephone?

You can make a voicecall or send a text message to the Alcove Carephone using any phone (smart or not) on the whitelist. The Carephone has its own phone number which any approved caller can use. To make a video call, you need to login to the Alcove application on any Android or Ios smartphone, tablet, laptop or a desktop computer (as long as it has a webcam and speakers) using the Chrome browser.

What sort of Contacts should I put on?

Family and friends are usually on there. But you can also put services that are used regularly like the hairdresser or local taxi service. Helplines can also be useful sometimes – Silver Line is a dedicated line to combat loneliness experienced in older age.

Can I use my Alcove Carephone to do other things?

The Alcove Carephone is a specially made communication aid. It is adapted to make it accessible and simple to use for all so all functionality has been locked down. Even the home button has been disabled. While that means you can always make calls and see messages, it also means you cannot use any other standard tablet applications.

Do I have to pay for calls?

Video calling is absolutely free but voice calls (both incoming and outgoing) cost 5p per minute. We include 100 minutes a month in your service package but you will need to buy additional minutes if this limit is exceeded.

Is it useful to have 2 Alcove Carephones?

If you want to connect two or more people very easily, you can make Carephone to Carephone video calls without the need to login or have your own device already. You will need 2 or more Alcove Carephones to do this.

Can I use my own tablet?

Unfortunately not. We only supply Alcove Carephone software on specially selected devices, chosen for the quality of their front facing cameras and compatibility with the Alcove fall detector button.

Can I take my Alcove Connect out of the house with me?

No. The Alcove Carephone must be always plugged in and on in the house. Please see our smartwatch of 'Alcove Find Me' for independence options.