Resident Communications Updates

2025-02-26 Update

Resident Communications Update/Memo #4

Topic: New ViaPath Tablets

Every resident gets a free tablet to use while in an IDOC facility, but the tablets belong to the facility. You will also receive one charger and one set of earbuds (with microphone) for free.

The new tablets use the cloud. This means anything on your profile stays in the cloud, not on the tablet. These tablets belong to the facility, but your content stays in your cloud profile. If you move to a different facility, you leave the tablet behind and get a different one at the new facility. Your earbuds and charger are yours to take with you.

The new ViaPath tablets are very convenient. You can communicate with your friends and family, order commissary, submit Concern Forms (in the future), electronic HSRs, access the law library, and more – all in one tablet.

There will be secure phone calling and video visits available on the tablets.

More information about the free and paid options, including prices, will be shared in another memo later.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Is there Bluetooth?
    • No. The new ViaPath tablets are not Bluetooth compatible.
  • Can I use an external keyboard?
    • No. External keyboards are not supported.
  • How much will the things cost that are not free?
    • We are still figuring out the prices.
  • How do games work on the new tablet?
    • Everything is played in the cloud. Your progress is saved in the cloud based on your profile. There are no downloads of games to the tablet – they are all played through streaming.

IDOC will keep providing information about the transition, costs, how things work, services, and timelines every week. If you have any other questions or worries, you can fill out a Concern Form and send it to Central Office – Contracts.