The Commodore brand has made a surprising return to the phone market with the Callback 8020, a Linux-based flip phone designed to promote digital detox and provide a middle ground between dumb and smart phones. The device runs on Sailfish OS, a mobile operating system developed by Jolla, and is marketed as a solution for those seeking to reduce their screen time without sacrificing essential functionality.
The Commodore Callback 8020 is the result of Peri Fractic's personal journey in curing phone addiction, which led him to design a device that would help others achieve digital well-being. The phone's software has hard blocks to prevent the installation of browsers and social media apps, with no toggle to turn off these restrictions. Users can still sideload compatible APK files, but browsers and social media apps remain blocked.
Background and Context
The Commodore brand was revived last year under new ownership, and since then, the company has released a range of products, including multiple Commodore 64 Ultimate editions and a C64X PC. The Callback 8020 is the first original product designed to promote the company's philosophy of technology serving us, not enslaving us.
The phone's software is based on Sailfish OS, which provides great Android app compatibility without Google's surveillance baked in. Commodore evaluated competing platforms before choosing Sailfish OS, citing its design language and stance on privacy as the deciding factors. The device also includes a range of modern features, such as global LTE cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth wireless, and GPS.
Why it Matters to the Industry
It probably won't bring anything new to the adult industry, except crazy-high cool factor points. I know I want one!
What Comes Next
The Commodore Callback 8020 is available for pre-order starting at $499, with pricing varying depending on the colorway chosen. The phone will be released on June 30th, and Commodore is offering a waitlist option that allows users to save $50.
Commodore's return to the phone market is an interesting development in the tech industry, and it will be fascinating to see how the Callback 8020 performs in the market. The device's unique features and design make it an attractive solution for those seeking to reduce their screen time without sacrificing essential functionality.
Key Facts
- The Commodore Callback 8020 is a Linux-based flip phone designed to promote digital detox and provide a middle ground between dumb and smart phones.
- The device runs on Sailfish OS, a mobile operating system developed by Jolla.
- The software has hard blocks to prevent the installation of browsers and social media apps, with no toggle to turn off these restrictions.
- Users can still sideload compatible APK files, but browsers and social media apps remain blocked.
- The phone includes a range of modern features, such as global LTE cellular connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth wireless, and GPS.
- The Commodore Callback 8020 is available for pre-order starting at $499, with pricing varying depending on the colorway chosen.
