FAQs
- Approved communication tools (Electronic Message)
- Educational programs
- DOC content and information
- Certain entertainment features, such as games, movies, magazines, and books.
- Telephone calling options
What is the DOC tablet deployment project?
DOC is working toward providing personal tablets to Adults in Custody (AICs). These tablets will support communication, education, programming access, and other approved tools. This effort is part of DOC’s broader modernization work, including technology and communication improvements.
Will every AIC receive a tablet?
DOC is planning for a 1:1 tablet model, meaning every AIC would receive their own device.
Why is DOC expanding tablet access?
Tablets support rehabilitation, access to information, and positive family connections. They also help DOC deliver secure digital content, education modules, and communication tools efficiently.
When will tablets be available?
Rollout planning is underway, and DOC will communicate timelines once they are finalized. Current estimates begin rollout in September of 2026.
What can AICs do on the tablets?
Depending on final contract terms, tablets may provide access to:
Will families need to do anything to support tablet rollout?
No. Families and friends do not need to take any action at this time. There are no changes to how you make phone calls, schedule visits, or send mail.
Will tablets cost AICs money?
Some features may be free, and others may involve fees. Pricing will depend on the contract DOC negotiates. Early planning documents show examples of free monthly minutes, messages, or calls in some scenarios, but these are not final.
Will AICs receive training on how to use the tablets?
Yes. DOC will provide instructions and orientation materials so AICs know how to use their tablets safely and effectively.
Will staff be affected by tablet deployment?
Some workloads may shift slightly as digital communication increases as a result of more AICs having access to tablets more often, but DOC will support staff throughout the transition.
Who is paying for the tablets?
Tablets would be provided by the vendor. Costs for the tablets would not come out of the DOC budget.
Will the AIC be responsible for covering costs if they damage the tablet?
Intentional damage of tablets can result in the finding of a Property 1 violation. The agency at any time can determine that a personal device will no longer be issued to an AIC. The Vendor can seek financial compensation outside of ODOC administrative processes.
Will they be charging the tablets in cell?
We anticipate AICs will be charging tablets in cell using the standard outlets already installed. We are aware SRCI will present a unique challenge for in cell charging and are evaluating options.
The more vulnerable AIC population will get taken advantage of, and their tablets will be misused by other AICs, cellmates or caretakers. How will DOC prevent this from happening?
AICs are provided with unique log in PIN. It is every AIC’s responsibility to protect their PIN. In the event an AIC feels as though they are being taken advantage of they should notify security staff at their facility. If they do not feel comfortable reporting to their facility staff, they can contact their inspector 1 to have their PIN changed and/or report through the Inspector General hotline.
Will access to tablets be restricted for AICs who are celled in on a conduct order or serving a LOP sanction?
The system allows suspension of an AIC’s PIN and can provide content options based on incentive level. We anticipate the new deployment should allow more consistent application of sanctions and incentives.
FAQ about Physical Mail
Will physical letters received be digitalized and sent through the tablet to the AIC or will they still receive letter and photos sent through regular USPS Mail?
The physical mail will be sent to an outside company. That company will scan the contents and provide those scans to AICs via an app on the tablet. This will include letters and photos. Physical mail will no longer arrive at the facility. (Exceptions: legal mail, package authorizations, books, magazines)
FAQ about Services on Tablets
Will it be possible to order canteen items or incentive items?
Some order forms for large items have already been established. After the scope of this project is complete, ODOC can examine expansion of service offerings.
Will AICs be able to access through the tablet special services not universally available in DOC institutions, such as (but not limited to): mental health treatment, sex offender treatment, and batterer's intervention?
The current transition is looking to expand the devices while maintaining current level of services, which currently does include self-help modules through Edovo and CypherWorx.
FAQ about Communications
Will tablets replace any current communications systems?
Tablets will enhance communication options but will continue to operate within DOC’s existing policies and security structure. Any future changes to communication platforms will be announced separately. The process for scheduling phone calls, visits, and sending mail all remain the same.
Will AICs pay per minute to view a message that was already paid for by the contact that sent the message?
The scanned mail application will exist on the free side of the tablet. It has not yet been determined if electronic messaging application will be move to the free side of the tablet. The move would enable free viewing of messages, but will result in a per message charge rate for responses.
Is it possible for AIC tablet communications be monitored so as to prevent contact with prohibited persons (for example: victims, underage targets, gang associates)?
AIC communication is subject to monitoring and recording. If there is knowledge of unwanted or inappropriate contact being made by an AIC, please report it to the local Inspector 1.
Will tablets increase communication opportunities?
That is one of the goals of the project. Planning documents include options that expand communication minutes, messaging allowances, and video call access, depending on the final contract. These are not finalized.
Questions Asked but not yet Answered
If miss-use of the tablet happens what will the consequences be?
We'll get an answer for you shortly!
Will AICs be able to print mail they have received digitally?
A determination related to printing of mail has not yet been made.