Android tablet GrandPad: is a long-standing Android tablet that was created with elders in mind. I haven’t been able to test it out for myself, though. In CES 2025, I had the chance to make that change, so I did.
What I discovered is a surprisingly competent, senior-focused Android tablet, and one that now has a touch of AI to boot.
A tablet adapted to older people
The GrandPad is essentially an 8-inch tablet made especially for older and less tech-savvy people. The gadget encourages independence and self-assurance with modern technology while keeping elders in touch with their loved ones, friends, and carers.
During practical tests, the resemblance of the tablet to the classic Nexus 7 it quickly became evident. This similarity is no coincidence, as the GrandPad’s roots date back to a modified Nexus 7, which served as the initial prototype.
The tablet has several features that make it more accessible to its target audience. These include large, easy-to-read icons and simplified navigation combined with support for video calling, turn-based multiplayer gaming, and photo sharing that doesn’t rely on a public network, along with personalized content tailored to each user’s interests.
The bread and butter of the GrandPad
A standout feature of the GrandPad is its proactive 24/7/365 customer support team based in the US. Isaac Lien, co-founder of GrandPad, highlighted the dedication of the team: “If your battery is running low and we see it running low and it’s not on the charger, we’ll just call and say, ‘Hey, it looks like your battery might be running low, remember to put it on the charger.’”
Lien further emphasized the importance of this service, stating: “For many of our customers, loneliness is a big problem. It’s winter and they are sitting alone at home.
Security is fundamental to the GrandPad experience. The tablet includes a private network to block spam and scam calls, a dedicated GrandPad email address to filter out untrusted communications, and a persistent LTE connection via an included SIM card. These features ensure that your device always has access to critical security updates, even when Wi-Fi is unavailable.
When my concerns were raised about the GrandPad’s use of Android 8 AOSP (from 2017), Lien assured me that critical security updates are pushed to the device silently overnight. The modular and configurable nature of GrandPad software allows users to receive security updates without friction or interference.
The GrandPad team is also constantly improving the user experience, although they realize that some users may not be aware of or interested in those changes. The company offers proactive customer support to inform users of updates and new features, and users have the option to stay with its familiar interface or upgrade with guided assistance from GrandPad Support.
Grandie Chat adds AI to the mix
At CES 2025, GrandPad showed off “Grandie Chat,” an AI-powered voice-controlled feature that leverages OpenAI models to provide an intuitive way for seniors to interact with technology. This new feature has led GrandPad users to adopt generative AI at three times the rate of others in their age group.
“Some users had never used a computer before,” Lien said. “But with Grandie Chat, once they realize it’s like talking, they’re like, ‘Oh, it’s so easy, I’m just having a conversation.'”
Grandie Chat eliminates the need to type through voice interaction and pre-programmed messages, making it incredibly easy for seniors to use. While it currently uses OpenAI models as the main brain of the large language model (LLM), GrandPad continually tests different models for optimal performance and user experience.
The tablet easily slides into place without the hassle of lining up pogo pins or plugging in cables, a significant benefit for the device’s target users. The stand is also handy for video calls.
With its combination of simplicity, security and LLM-based artificial intelligence, the GrandPad is truly unlike any other tablet available. It’s certainly not the tablet for everyone, but for a grandparent who wants a way to stay connected with an easy-to-use device, it’s easy to see why the GrandPad is so appealing.
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