Verizon Communications Inc. agreed to acquire a Derek Jeter-backed videoconference company, Blue Jeans Network Inc. The company also introduced the Care Smart watch, designed for seniors to keep them connected while giving their loved ones peace of mind.

The acquisition of Blue Jeans Network expands Verizon’s unified communications portfolio. BlueJeans’ cloud-based video service currently serves a wide variety of business segments from small organizations to some of the world’s largest multinational brands, and has played a significant part in continuing those companies’ operations during the ongoing work-from-home surge.

The transaction will combine BlueJeans’ meeting platform with Verizon’s unified communications as a service business immediately. In addition, the platform will be integrated into Verizon’s 5G product roadmap, providing secure and real-time engagement solutions for high growth areas such as telemedicine, distance learning and field service work.

BlueJeans founders and key management team will join Verizon. BlueJeans employees will become Verizon employees immediately following the close of the deal.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the second quarter.

Care Smart Watch

Verizon also today introduced the Care Smart watch, designed for seniors to keep them connected. The watch comes with its own phone number and a companion app (Verizon Care Smart), creating a simple way to stay in close contact with friends & family members. Starting April 16, you can preorder the Care Smart watch for $149.99 and receive $50 off with the purchase of a smartphone.

The Care Smart watch is designed for grandparents or for loved ones who live alone. If they had an accident or an emergency, he or she could call for help. Verizon customers can also set timers and alerts to remind them about daily tasks like taking their medication. The trust circle allows seniors to talk to people they already know, removing the worry of robocalls. And, for the fitness enthusiasts, users will have step trackers to monitor their physical fitness. The whole family can get involved.

With the power of the Verizon Network, friends and family can download the Verizon Care Smart app to stay connected with their loved ones with calling, texting and location sharing features.

Watch features

• Voice & text communication powered by Verizon’s 4G LTE Network
• Trusted circle: create a list of up to 10 contacts for close family & friends
• Comfortable design & adjustable clasp wristband (available in black or lavender)
• Volume and brightness controls, ringtones, and text to speech.
• Waterproof
• Up to 2.5 day battery life

The Care Smart watch is available online for $149.99. If you pre-order it today, you’ll get $50 off with the purchase of a smartphone.