'CosyPhone' aimed at over-50s

The device, which has a large keypad with separated buttons, uses Near Field Communication technology to make it easier for older users to call or text friends and family without having to scroll through menus. Instead it uses cards, which can be customised with a photo or other information and pre-programmed with the number of the doctor's surgery, or a friend or relative. To make a call, the user simply "waves" their phone over that card to speak to that person or send a text message.

The CosyPhone, which is made by Sagem, also uses a recharger cradle to cut down on trailing wires when plugging a device in to re-charge the battery. Sagem said it was a "connected lifestyle device" that would meet the specific lifestyle needs of an "older generation" of mobile user.

"With its sleek, stylish form factor, the CosyPhone is a stylish device that places a heavy emphasis on simplicity of use and style," said a spokesman for Sagem. "The display is adequately large, and the fonts are very legible in various lighting conditions."

"Everything about the CosyPhone is centred around comfort and simplicity, from the shape, weight and display of the device to the user interface and charger cradle," said Thierry Buffenoir, chief executive of Sagem. "We have integrated the lastest Near Field Communications technology to enable users to customise how they access the features they require from a mobile device.

"With an aging population in Europe, there is an opportunity for a simple, effected connected device that makes life easier."

Sagem did not announce a price or release date for the phone, but said it would be available through a variety of network operators.