Simplest video calling for the elderly and disabled
Connects to their television no buttons, no subscriptions, no stress
Who is CallGenie For?
CallGenie is for anyone who finds today’s technology overwhelming — and just wants to stay connected with the people they love.
Whether it’s a grandparent living alone, a parent in a care home, or a loved one with dementia, CallGenie brings families together with a simple video call that appears right on the TV — no buttons to press, nothing to learn.
It’s made for:
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People who’ve never used or not comfortable using a smartphone
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People with dementia or cognitive conditions
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Families who live far apart
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People with visual or hearing impairments
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Those with limited mobility or motor skills
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Anyone who just wants a friendly face without the fuss
Because everyone deserves to feel close, no matter the distance.
How It Works
Make a Call
Family or friends make a video call to CallGenie using either your smartphone, tablet, or computer using the app.
Auto Answer on the Television
CallGenie will turn on the television, and switch automatically to the input for the video call. No buttons required.
Enjoy Your Call
Enjoy having your catch up with your loved one on the big screen
Finish Your Call
End the call on your device and CallGenie will automatically switch the television back to the previous state, whether the previous channel or back into standby.
Why CallGenie?
Connects to the Television
CallGenie connects to the user’s television, typically the largest screen in a person’s home
Auto-Answering Video Calls
CallGenie automatically turns on the television and selects the right input, even on standby, then returns the televison to its previous state.
No Monthly Fees
Pay once and that’s it. Twelve months of full support and warranty included.
Real-time Subtitles
Real-time subtitles are built into the software. The size of the text can be configured to suit the needs of the user
Safe and Secure
Only known contacts can make incoming calls. Just add family and friends to the contacts list to enable them to connect
Connects to the Television
CallGenie connects to the user’s television, typically the largest screen in a person’s home
Auto-Answering Video Calls
CallGenie automatically turns on the television and selects the right input, even on standby, then returns the televison to its previous state.
No Monthly Fees
Pay once and that’s it. Twelve months of full support and warranty included.
Real-time Subtitles
Real-time subtitles are built into the software. The size of the text can be configured to suit the needs of the user
Safe and Secure
Only known contacts can make incoming calls. Just add family and friends to the contacts list to enable them to connect
Call Your Loved One – Your Way
CallGenie works with both Microsoft Teams and Jami, so you can choose the app that suits your family best.
Unlike other devices, you can call from your phone, tablet, or computer.
Making it easier than ever to stay connected.
Product Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions.
- All
- Product Information
- Set-Up & Compatibility
- Using CallGenie
- Families & Carers
- Troubleshooting & Support
- Subscription, Warranty & Updates
What is CallGenie?
CallGenie is a simple video calling device that connects to the user’s television, making it easy for elderly or disabled individuals to stay in touch with loved ones—without having to press any buttons or use complex technology.
What is included with CallGenie?
Your CallGenie bundle includes everything you need to get set up. Inside, you’ll find a mini-PC with CallGenie pre-installed, a power cable, HDMI cable, and your chosen webcam. All you’ll need is an internet connection and a television with an HDMI port.
For a full list of what’s included in your specific bundle, please visit our shop page.
Why does CallGenie use a televison instead of a tablet?
The television is often the largest screen in the home and typically has the best sound. For many older people, it’s also where they feel most comfortable—often seated in their favourite spot, right in front of it. By using the TV for communication, everything becomes easier to see and hear. This setup is especially helpful for people living with dementia, visual impairments, or reduced mobility.
Will my loved one receive unwanted calls?
No. Only trusted, pre-approved contacts can call through CallGenie. This keeps your loved one safe and prevents scam or spam calls.
Is my TV compatible with CallGenie?
CallGenie needs a feature called HDMI-CEC to control your TV, which is available on most smart televisions made since 2010. In some cases, we may also need to use infrared control.
As technology changes constantly, please contact us, and we’ll help you check whether your television is suitable.
Which webcam is best for me?
All our webcams offer crisp Full HD (1080p) video and include built-in privacy shutters for peace of mind. The main differences come down to field of view (how much the camera sees) and whether the zoom is fixed or adjustable:
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Brio 100 – Standard View (58°)
Best for one person in frame. A great choice if you’re always sitting in the same spot. -
Brio 300 – Wide View (70°)
Ideal for two people, or one person who moves between two nearby locations (like a bed and chair). -
Brio 500 – Zoom & Variable View (65–90°)
Our most advanced webcam. Adjustable field of view and 4× zoom make it perfect for flexible setups with one or two people.
Still not sure? Get in touch and we’ll help you choose the right one for your space.
Can I get VAT relief if the person using the product is disabled?
Yes, you can. If you or the person you’re buying a CallGenie Appliance for is chronically sick or disabled and will be using it for personal or domestic use, you’re likely eligible for VAT relief.
You may qualify if any of the following apply:
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You have a long-term physical or mental impairment that significantly affects your ability to carry out everyday activities
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You have a condition that’s treated by the medical profession as a chronic illness (e.g. diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease)
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You have a terminal illness
To claim VAT relief, simply fill out our VAT Relief for Disabled form during checkout.
Please note: as required by HMRC, Smart Life Solutions must keep a record of all VAT relief claims, including names, addresses, and relevant information. This may be shared with HMRC if requested.
Can I install CallGenie myself?
Yes — it’s designed to be simple. Just connect CallGenie to the television using the HDMI cable provided, and connect it to the internet.
We’ll send you clear instructions, and we recommend booking a video call with our team in advance so we can help you configure it to work perfectly with the user’s TV.
Will CallGenie work with my set top box?
CallGenie has been successfully installed with Sky Q, Sky+ HD, Virgin and BT YouView set top boxes. If in doubt check with us that your set top box will work.
Will CallGenie work with my soundbar?
Yes, in most cases — as long as your soundbar connects to the TV using HDMI-ARC and there are no other HDMI devices connected through the soundbar, CallGenie will work just fine.
If you’re unsure about your setup, just get in touch and we’ll help you check compatibility.
Is my TV compatible with CallGenie?
CallGenie needs a feature called HDMI-CEC to control your TV, which is available on most smart televisions made since 2010. In some cases, we may also need to use infrared control.
As technology changes constantly, please contact us, and we’ll help you check whether your television is suitable.
What sort of Internet connection do I need?
CallGenie works with almost all standard broadband services. In rare cases, like with TalkTalk in the UK, you may need to contact your provider to unblock our remote support software. You can connect the CallGenie device to your internet netowork through your WI-FI or using an ethernet cable.
If you’re ever unsure, our team is happy to help check your setup and guide you through any changes needed.
What if there is no internet connection available?
CallGenie needs an internet connection to make and receive video calls. If the user’s location doesn’t have an internet connection, the system won’t work as intended.
In some cases, it may be possible to set up mobile broadband using a 4G or 5G router. If this applies to you, we’d be happy to advise on the best options for your area.
What do I need for CallGenie to work?
o use CallGenie, you’ll need:
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A modern flatscreen TV (LED, OLED or QLED) with at least one spare HDMI socket
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HDMI-CEC support (most TVs made since 2008 include this — Samsung, LG, Sony, Panasonic, Philips, and others)
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A spare power socket near the TV
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High-speed broadband (ideally fibre) with at least 2 Mbps upload/download
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Either Wi-Fi or a wired internet connection
Not sure if your TV is compatible? Just send us a photo of the label on the back — we’re happy to check it for you.
What do I need to have ready before installation?
Before your CallGenie setup, please make sure you have:
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A TV with a spare HDMI-CEC socket
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The original TV remote control (with fresh batteries)
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A spare power socket nearby
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An active internet connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)
Having everything in place makes the setup faster and ensures everything works smoothly — especially if we’re assisting you over a video call.
Can the person answer the call themselves?
They don’t need to! CallGenie answers video calls automatically from trusted contacts. No buttons, apps, or remotes required.
Will it work if the television is off?
Yes. CallGenie will temporarily take over the screen during a call and return it to whatever state the television was in before, including the previous channel or back into standby.
Do I need a special app to make a call to CallGenie?
You can call using the dedicated CallGenie app on your phone, tablet, or computer—no special apps are are needed for the person you’re calling.
Can the user make calls too?
CallGenie is designed to receive calls, not initiate them. This is to keep things as simple as possible for the end user and reduce the risk of confusion.
Can multiple family members make calls to CallGenie?
Yes! Any pre-approved contact can call the device. You can easily add new contacts to the approved list.
Is it suitable for people with dementia, hearing loss, or visual impairments?
Absolutely. CallGenie was designed with accessibility in mind. It’s easy to hear, see, and use—ideal for people with a wide range of cognitive or physical challenges.
Real-time subtitles are built into the software. The size of the text can be configured to suit the needs of the user.
Can I use CallGenie from abroard?
Yes. As long as you have internet access and use the dedicated CallGenie app on your device, you can connect with your loved one from anywhere in the world.
Can CallGenie be used in care homes or group settings?
Yes — CallGenie is ideal for supported living environments, care homes, and assisted living facilities where residents may struggle with using tablets or smartphones, especially when family members live far away.
hat said, some care homes may have concerns about installing a webcam in a resident’s room. It’s helpful to explain that CallGenie only answers video calls from approved contacts, and the webcam is only active during an incoming call. There’s a light on the webcam and a live video display on the TV during a call, so nothing happens in secret — and the system cannot be accessed remotely at any other time.
All our webcams have built-in privacy shutters, and care staff can simply switch the device off during personal care routines and turn it back on when ready — this is a common and accepted practice in care settings.
We’ve created a full guide to help care staff feel comfortable with how CallGenie works and the safeguards in place.
The television didn’t return to normal after the call ended
This may happen if the input was changed during the call. Use your television remote to return to the normal HDMI source or television channel.
The sound is distorted or out of sync
This is usually caused by poor internet connection. Restart your router and check your speed. If the issue continues, contact our support team.
My webcam isn’t working
Try unplugging it and plugging it back in. If needed, try a different USB port. Still not working? Get in touch—we’re happy to help.
CallGenie is frozen
Power off CallGenie for 10 seconds, then restart. This usually fixes it.
My relative can’t see or hear me
Make sure your camera and microphone are working, and that your internet connection is stable. Try restarting your CallGenie App.
How can I get support if I need help?
Our friendly team is available by phone and email during working hours. Click here to get in touch.
Is a subscription required to use CallGenie?
No monthly fees! Once you purchase the device, it’s yours to use without a subscription.
Will I get a refund if the CallGenie Video Calling Device can’t be made to work with the end user’s television?
As long as we have checked the end-user’s television for compatibility prior to an order being shipped, you will get a full refund if we can’t get your CallGenie device working with the end user’s television, for any reason.
To get a full refund you must return the CallGenie Appliance within 30 days of purchase, in the same condition as it was delivered to you. This includes placing everything back in its original packaging.
For full details please see our returns policy
What are my options if my relative no longer needs their CallGenie Appliance?
We understand that circumstances can change. If your relative no longer needs their CallGenie Appliance, you have several options.
If the device hasn’t been opened or installed, you may be eligible for a partial refund within 3 months of delivery. We also offer partial refunds on used equipment within the same timeframe, provided it’s returned in good condition with original packaging.
You’re also welcome to sell the appliance privately — we can transfer the software license to the new owner for a small configuration fee. Or, if you prefer, the device can be repurposed as a basic Windows PC, or returned to us for responsible recycling.
Contact Us
Ask a questions or check your television is compatible with CallGenie
Phone
+44 (0)1252 918824
Address
45 Fairhaven Avenue, West Mersea, Essex, CO5 8EZ, UK