Ameelio Launches Free Video Calling for Inmates

Ameelio's Challenge to Prison Communication Systems

Ameelio, a nonprofit startup, is actively challenging established companies in the prison communication sector by aiming to provide free communication services to inmates. The company is gaining traction, currently operating in nine Iowa facilities and engaging in discussions with numerous others, anticipating a broader rollout in 2022.

From Letter Writing to Digital Services

Founded less than two years ago, Ameelio initially focused on simplifying the process of sending letters to inmates, a surprisingly complex undertaking. The company has since expanded significantly.

“We’ve grown from approximately 8,000 users to around 300,000, spanning every state and several territories,” stated Uzoma Orchingwa, founder and CEO. However, the core focus remains on developing and testing a comprehensive suite of digital products for nationwide implementation next year.

Ameelio distinguishes itself by building its own technology infrastructure and passing the resulting cost savings directly to inmates, offering a compelling alternative to outdated prison systems.

The Dominance of For-Profit Companies

A small number of for-profit companies, such as Securus and Global Tel, currently control the vast majority of video-calling services in prisons. These companies profit from a system criticized by former FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn as a clear example of market failure.

Despite minimal provision costs, inmate calls can be excessively expensive, reaching up to a dollar per minute. This pricing is considered exploitative, especially given the widespread availability of free or low-cost video calling options.

Securus is undergoing a rebranding (to “Aventis”) and exploring a potential SPAC deal, mirroring strategies employed by companies like Facebook and Blackwater, in an attempt to distance itself from past criticisms.

Shifting Attitudes Among Departments of Correction

Departments of Correction (DOCs) are increasingly questioning the value of existing services. The temporary shift to free video calls during the pandemic, prompted by the suspension of in-person visits, has led many DOCs to consider maintaining this approach.

The practice of charging inmates for communication and sharing revenue is becoming increasingly unsustainable and ethically questionable, prompting a desire for simpler, more transparent solutions.

Ameelio's System and Implementation

Ameelio offers a flexible, turnkey system adaptable to varying levels of facility or department involvement. The company can function as a basic replacement for free video calling platforms like Google Meet, as demonstrated by Louisville Metro DOC’s successful transition without requiring new legislation.

Furthermore, Ameelio can provide regulated services like scheduling, storage, and security for a fee, significantly undercutting existing provider quotes.

Orchingwa emphasizes that the core issue has evolved from telecommunications to technology, stating, “Their products haven’t changed in two decades.” Existing providers often acquire companies or rely on off-the-shelf technology like Twilio to maintain profitability, necessitating high charges to cover costs and generate revenue.

Ameelio, as a lean startup leveraging open-source technology, maintains significantly lower costs. “We use mediasoup instead of Twilio, and our server costs are currently around $100 per month,” explained CTO Gabriel Saruhashi.

Hardware and Infrastructure

Ameelio utilizes standard Android tablets with custom enclosures, easily provisioned and deployed wherever Wi-Fi is available. Facilities can replace numerous landlines with a greater number of tablets, enabling both video and audio calls.

Video calls require scheduling and recording, while audio calls are available on demand. This unified service and device approach streamlines communication processes.

Expanding into Education

Ameelio is also focused on improving educational opportunities for inmates, addressing the current fragmented landscape. Security concerns often necessitate physical delivery of educational materials, while virtual services may have limited accessibility.

The same tablets used for communication will serve as a platform for education and reading materials. There is substantial interest from educators, DOCs, and inmates alike, though digitization has been a slow process.

“We’re uploading thousands of books from Gutenberg, and partnering with LinkedIn Learning, MasterClass, and PBS,” Orchingwa said. Ameelio is also piloting job training programs, including commercial drivers license (CDL) training, for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Future Growth and Funding

Ameelio’s rapid growth demonstrates a clear demand for change within the prison communication industry. The company is poised to disrupt the status quo and offer a more equitable and accessible system.

Ameelio intends to sustain itself by providing services states already fund, such as video call recording and storage, and by charging attorneys for secure calls, while maintaining free access for inmates and their families. “Ameelio will always exist as a nonprofit,” Orchingwa affirmed, “We are committed to never charging families to communicate with their loved ones.”

The company has secured support from prominent investors, including Jack Dorsey, Vinod Khosla, and Eric Schmidt, and is planning a $25 million funding round to support its expansion.

Ameelio envisions a future where incarcerated individuals have secure, spontaneous communication access, educational resources, and other essential services, representing a fundamental shift in the approach to prison communication and rehabilitation.