CDCR Awards Tablet Contract to Securus Technologies

On February 21, 2025, CDCR rejected incumbent IPCS vendor Global Tel*Link's bid provide the next generation of tablet-based electronic services to the department's incarcerated population and instead awarded the I-Connect+ contract to Securus Technologies. Securus is the parent company of JPay, the vendor who supplied JP4 and JP5 tablets for the department's 2017 tablet pilot project.

Securus' EVOTAB tablets are much different than the tablets supplied by JPay for the pilot project. Indeed, the hardware specifications for the EVOTAB are nearly identical to those of the GTL tablets in current use. The only exceptions are that the EVOTAB has more memory (3 MB versus 2 MB) and a proprietary USB port for connecting the charger and optional keyboard.

Unlike the GTL tablet, however, the EVOTAB will provide a user experience much closer to that of a standard tablet, which is important for improving digital literacy. For example, users will be able to download (some) content for offline use; log in, use offline apps, and engage with downloaded content without a WiFi connection; multitask and access all apps from a unified profile; and install pre-approved apps from a managed Android Play Store.

Pricing structure and prices for EVOTAB communication and entertainment services will be the same or cheaper than GTL's offerings with the exception of games, which are no longer free, but will require a 99¢ monthly subscription.

The EVOTAB's electronic messaging app is more similar to e-mail than texting. Securus also has a texting app, but the contract does not specify whether it will be made available to the department's incarcerated population.

The contract requires most tablets to be online by August, 21, 2025 and runs six to ten years.