Mobile phones have become a ubiquitous information and telecommunication terminal used by diverse age groups. Despite research findings that indicate the special needs and skills of senior citizens, contemporary handsets offer limited consideration for them. This paper investigated whether typical mobile phone icons are suitable for older users, as measured through unaided icon comprehension. For this purpose, it studied 38 users and evaluated 25 icons, which were captured from five different handsets. It was found that there are significant differences in icon comprehension performance between older and younger mobile phone users. It is concluded that designers of mobile phone icons have to regard older user groups differently and the qualities of icons suitable to each one of the age groups are described. Finally, the paper highlights the need for additional similar research in different ethnic and cultural groups.