Category: Phones

Stay updated with the latest phone news, reviews, and trends. Discover cutting-edge smartphones, features, and innovations in our Phones category at GizNewsDaily

  • iPhone 17 Air Buttons Slimmer for Ultra-Slim Design, Dummy Units Show

    iPhone 17 Air Buttons Slimmer for Ultra-Slim Design, Dummy Units Show

    Key Takeaways

    1. The iPhone 17 Air is rumored to be only 5.5mm thick, making it the thinnest iPhone to date.
    2. Leaked images show the iPhone 17 Air’s buttons and USB Type-C port designed to match its ultra-slim profile.
    3. The iPhone 17 Air lacks a physical SIM card slot, unlike other models in the series, due to its slim design.
    4. The side buttons on the iPhone 17 Air have been modified to accommodate its reduced thickness.
    5. Apple is expected to unveil the iPhone 17 series, including the iPhone 17 Air, in September.

    Several leaks, including a recent YouTube video from Unbox Therapy, show just how thin the iPhone 17 Air could be. It’s rumored to measure only 5.5mm, making it the slimmest iPhone to date. A new leak featuring dummy units of the whole iPhone 17 series emphasizes the remarkable thinness of the device, especially in comparison to other models. The side buttons appear to have been modified to accommodate the ultra-slim design of the phone.

    Leaked Images

    Leaker SonnyDickson posted several pictures on X, showcasing what are thought to be dummy units for the iPhone 17 lineup. Among these images is the iPhone 17 Air, which at first glance seems to be about half the thickness of the dummy model for the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The pictures reveal the sides and bottom of the devices, displaying the buttons and the USB Type-C port. The power button, Camera Control, volume, and Action buttons on the iPhone 17 Air look like they have been slimmed down to match the anticipated 5.5mm thickness.

    Button and Port Design

    Despite the reduced size of the buttons, they still occupy a significant portion of the phone’s thickness, as does the USB Type-C port located at the bottom. Interestingly, this port appears to be a bit misaligned, sitting closer to the back of the device. It’s important to note that these are dummy units, so they may not fully reflect the final product. The other three models appear to have USB Type-C ports that are centrally positioned.

    SIM Card Tray Differences

    In addition, the dummy units for the iPhone 17 Pro Max and iPhone 17 Pro, possibly the iPhone 17, seem to feature a SIM tray, which the Air lacks. Given the Air’s slim profile, it’s not surprising that there is no physical SIM card slot. It’s worth mentioning that the iPhone 16 series lacks physical SIM slots in the US, while models sold in other regions do accommodate physical SIM cards.

    Apple is anticipated to reveal the iPhone 17 series in September, which will include the iPhone 17 Air, set to take the place of the Plus model.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: ,

  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Leak: Upgraded Telephoto Camera & Launch Info

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sony is set to launch the Xperia 1 VII, replacing last year’s Xperia 1 VI.
    2. The new smartphone features an FHD+ OLED display, Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
    3. Improvements include a larger telephoto sensor and a battery life extending up to 5 hours longer than its predecessor.
    4. New AI features for the camera are expected to enhance photography capabilities.
    5. The Xperia 1 VII will be priced around $1400 and available in Black, Purple, and Khaki Green, with global launch on May 15.

    Sony is gearing up to unveil its upcoming flagship smartphone in the near future. The device known as the Xperia 1 VII will take the place of last year’s Xperia 1 VI, and it seems that detailed information has already leaked ahead of its official launch.

    Leaked Specifications

    According to trustworthy leaker Chunvn8888, who shared insights from a private Xperia Group on Facebook, the Xperia 1 VII will boast an FHD+ OLED display with a 19.5:9 aspect ratio, powered by a Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Additionally, it will include a 3.5mm headphone jack, plus notable improvements in both hardware and software designed for Walkman, aimed at enhancing audio quality.

    New Features

    Among the other leaked features are a telephoto sensor that is twice the size of its predecessor, and a battery life that reportedly lasts up to 5 hours longer than the Xperia 1 VI. New artificial intelligence features for the camera are also expected to be part of this upgrade.

    The Sony Xperia 1 VII is anticipated to be officially launched on May 15 worldwide, with sales kicking off in Japan and Taiwan shortly after. However, fans in Southeast Asia might have to wait until July. As for a release in the US, that information remains unclear. The Xperia 1 VII is rumored to be priced at around $1400 and will come in three color choices: Black, Purple, and Khaki Green.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Google Pixel 7a: Up to $450 for Battery Issue in Pixel A Series

    Google Pixel 7a: Up to $450 for Battery Issue in Pixel A Series

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google launched the Pixel 9a, priced at $499, to bridge the gap between the Pixel A series and flagship models.
    2. The Pixel 9a’s battery may lose capacity after 200 charging cycles, with voltage dropping significantly between 201 and 1,000 cycles.
    3. An extended repair program has been introduced for the Pixel 7a due to significant battery degradation and inflation issues.
    4. Free battery replacement is offered for the Pixel 7a, but claims may be denied for devices with liquid damage or screen cracks.
    5. Users outside India and the US may qualify for alternative compensation options worth up to $456 in local currency.

    Google has recently launched the Pixel 9a worldwide (curr. $499 on Amazon), which helps close the gap between the Pixel A series and the flagship models. While there are many shared features between the Pixel A and Pixel smartphones, the earlier models have been facing more battery issues lately.

    Battery Concerns

    For instance, at the beginning of this year, Google released an update for the Pixel 4a that actually cut the battery life in half. By March, Google confirmed that the Pixel 9a’s battery would start to lose its capacity after 200 charging cycles. Even more troubling, the device’s voltage would gradually drop between 201 and 1,000 cycles.

    Extended Repair Program

    In a quiet move, Google has introduced an ‘extended repair programme’ for the Pixel 7a, which was launched less than two years ago. In a support announcement, the company acknowledged that some Pixel 7a batteries have degraded significantly, leading to inflation. Usually, this issue can be noticed when the battery pushes the back panel of the Pixel 7a to bulge or even come off completely. However, it’s possible that the only sign could be a drastically reduced battery life.

    Currently, Google has offered just one free battery replacement. However, they will deny a replacement if your Pixel 7a shows any signs of liquid damage, screen cracks, or has been ‘exposed to sharp objects.’ If you are located outside of India or the United States, you might qualify for different ‘appeasement options’ valued at up to $456 converted into your local currency. For more details, check out Google’s support and registration pages.

    Source:
    Link

    Google Pixel 7a: Up to $450 for Battery Issue in Pixel A Series
    Tags: , ,
  • Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: Summer Launch Date for Z Fold7 & Z Flip7

    Samsung Galaxy Unpacked: Summer Launch Date for Z Fold7 & Z Flip7

    Key Takeaways

    1. Samsung has not officially announced the date for its next Galaxy Unpacked event but has reportedly decided on the timing and location.
    2. The Galaxy S25 Edge is expected to launch globally next month, following some delays, with a focus on a two-month gap between flagship smartphone showcases.
    3. The Galaxy Unpacked event is anticipated to occur in the first week of July, potentially between July 1-4 or July 7-11.
    4. New York City is likely to be the location for this summer’s Galaxy Unpacked event, where the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7 are expected to be unveiled.
    5. The Galaxy Z Flip FE and Galaxy G Fold may not launch until fall, possibly alongside the Galaxy Tab S11 and Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra.

    Samsung has yet to make an official announcement regarding when its next Galaxy Unpacked event will take place. However, recent news from South Korean sources indicate that the company has not only decided on the timing but also the location for the presentation of several new devices.

    Upcoming Device Launches

    In terms of what to expect, Samsung is likely to launch the Galaxy S25 Edge globally next month, following some reports of delays. It seems that instead of the rapid succession of launches seen in the past, the company plans to wait around two months before showcasing new flagship smartphones. According to The JoonAng, the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event is expected to occur in the first week of July.

    Potential Dates and Locations

    While a specific date hasn’t been revealed yet, the term “first week” can vary from country to country. One might interpret this as the week starting from July 1 to July 4, which would mean Samsung could potentially be unveiling new devices at this time. If this turns out to be true, it would mean a quick follow-up to the Galaxy Z Fold6 and Galaxy Z Flip6 (currently priced at $660 for refurbished units on Amazon), which were announced less than a year ago.

    On the other hand, The JoonAng might be referring to July 7-11 as the first week of July. Regardless of the interpretation, sources indicate that Samsung has chosen New York City for this summer’s Galaxy Unpacked event. At this gathering, the company is primarily expected to unveil the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Galaxy Z Flip7. In contrast, the Galaxy Z Flip FE and Galaxy G Fold may not launch until the fall, possibly alongside the Galaxy Tab S11 and Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • Motorola Razr Ultra Launches: Snapdragon 8 Elite, 68W Charging $1,300

    Motorola Razr Ultra Launches: Snapdragon 8 Elite, 68W Charging $1,300

    Key Takeaways

    1. Motorola has launched three new Razr smartphones, with the flagship model being the Razr Ultra, featuring significant upgrades in processor, battery life, charging, and camera capabilities.

    2. The Razr Ultra boasts a 7.0-inch internal AMOLED display with HDR10+ support, a 4.0-inch external pOLED display, and includes dual 50MP cameras on the cover display.

    3. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC and 16GB RAM, the device has a 4,700mAh battery with 68W wired and 30W wireless charging, plus IP48 dust and water resistance.

    4. AI features are highlighted in the new lineup, with moto ai prompts and a Gemini assistant accessible from the cover display.

    5. Pre-orders for the Razr Ultra begin on May 7 in the US, priced at $1,300 for the 16GB+512GB variant, while the other models start at $700 and $1,000, respectively.

    Motorola has unveiled its latest series of Razr smartphones, introducing three models this time around. The flagship model is the Motorola Razr Ultra (known as the Motorola Razr 60 Ultra outside the US), which showcases the very best of Motorola’s foldable technology. This new device features enhancements in its processor, battery life, charging capabilities, and camera functionalities. Additionally, the hinge has been redesigned to boost durability and offer better protection against dust and water. Furthermore, it comes in four fresh finishes, including a genuine wood option.

    Display and Camera Features

    The Razr Ultra sports a 7.0-inch 1224p AMOLED internal display capable of HDR10+ support, 10-bit color, and a refresh rate of up to 165Hz thanks to LTPO technology, with a maximum brightness of 4,500 nits. The external display measures 4.0 inches and is a pOLED type, featuring a similar refresh rate but with a peak brightness of 3,000 nits. This cover display includes two of the three 50MP cameras—a primary camera and an ultrawide lens with Macro features. The third 50MP camera is situated on the main screen.

    Performance and Battery Life

    The device is driven by the Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC alongside 16GB LPDDR5X RAM, available in storage variants of 512GB and 1TB. It is supported by a 4,700mAh battery that allows for 68W TurboPower wired charging, as well as 30W wireless charging and 5W reverse charging. The Motorola Razr Ultra includes a physical SIM slot and supports eSIM. When closed, the phone measures 73.99×88.12×15.69mm, and when opened, it measures 73.99×171.48×7.29mm, with a weight of 199 grams. Motorola has achieved IP48 dust and water resistance for the Ultra model, in contrast to the IPX8 water resistance of the Razr+ 2024.

    AI Features and Availability

    The company is emphasizing AI features in its new Razr lineup, incorporating moto ai prompts like Catch Me Up, Pay Attention, and Remember This. The Gemini assistant is easily accessible from the cover display, and there’s a specific AI key for activating moto ai at any moment. Users can also activate Look and Talk in tent or stand mode to interact with the moto ai.

    In the US, pre-orders for the Motorola Razr Ultra will be available through Best Buy, Amazon.com, and motorola.com starting on May 7, with sales kicking off on May 15. The device will come in finishes such as soft-touch Alcantara, real wood, luxe satin-inspired, and a robust leather-inspired option. The price for the 16GB+512GB variant is set at $1,300, while the 1TB version will be exclusive to the Motorola online store, with its price yet to be disclosed.

    As for the other models, the Razr and Razr+ will start at $700 and $1,000, respectively. They will be released following the same timeline as the Razr Ultra.

    Source:
    Link

    Motorola Razr Ultra Launches: Snapdragon 8 Elite, 68W Charging $1,300Motorola Razr Ultra Launches: Snapdragon 8 Elite, 68W Charging $1,300

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Vivo X200 Ultra Teardown: Detailed Look at Zeiss Triple-Camera

    Vivo X200 Ultra Teardown: Detailed Look at Zeiss Triple-Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Vivo X200 Ultra features a large camera bump that provides a comfortable grip for users.
    2. The smartphone has a powerful 6,000mAh battery that charges from 1% to 100% in just 48 minutes at 72.7 watts.
    3. It boasts a high-quality display with 2160Hz dimming and brightness up to 1,700 nits.
    4. The camera system includes three sensors and a teleconverter that allows an 85mm lens to function as a 200mm zoom lens.
    5. Accessories like the camera grip and teleconverter are currently unavailable for import, despite the phone’s impressive capabilities.

    The close to 17-minute video in Chinese begins with the idea that the large camera bump of the Vivo X200 Ultra has at least one benefit; it gives ample space for the index finger to comfortably rest when holding the otherwise quite slim 35mm camera flagship. For those who do not speak Chinese, the automatically generated subtitles on YouTube provide key information about the phone’s internals.

    Key Features and Performance

    While Vivo’s latest smartphone emphasizes three camera sensors of similar size, users can also expect high-end quality in other aspects. That’s what the teardown specialist concludes, who also shares a few test outcomes at the end of the video. For instance, the 6,000mAh battery can charge at a rate of up to 72.7 watts, allowing it to go from 1 to 100 percent in just 48 minutes with its silicon-carbon battery. The BOE display features 2160Hz dimming and can reach up to 1,700 nits in bright light conditions. The tester highlights the camera grip and teleconverter in his demonstration, which transforms the 85mm telephoto lens into a 200mm zoom camera, ideal for concerts and similar events. Unfortunately, these two accessories are currently unavailable for import, unlike the Vivo X200 Ultra itself.

    Conclusion

    Overall, this video provides great insights into the Vivo X200 Ultra, enhancing understanding for viewers who may not be familiar with the device. With its exceptional camera capabilities and impressive specs, it’s clear that Vivo is striving to deliver a top-tier smartphone experience.

    Source:
    Link

    Vivo X200 Ultra Teardown: Detailed Look at Zeiss Triple-CameraVivo X200 Ultra Teardown: Detailed Look at Zeiss Triple-Camera

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Motorola Edge 60 Pro: 50MP Camera, 4500-Nit Display, 6000mAh Battery

    Motorola Edge 60 Pro: 50MP Camera, 4500-Nit Display, 6000mAh Battery

    Key Takeaways

    1. Motorola is launching two higher-priced smartphones in the Edge 60 series: Edge 60 and Edge 60 Pro, with the Edge 60 priced at €100 more than the Edge 60 Fusion.
    2. All models feature a 6.67-inch 120Hz pOLED display, 4,500 nits peak brightness, and an IP68 water resistance rating.
    3. The camera system includes a 50MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide camera, a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x zoom, and a 50MP front camera, optimized for accurate color capture.
    4. The Edge 60 is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 with a 5,200mAh battery, while the Edge 60 Pro has the faster Dimensity 8350 and a 6,000mAh battery.
    5. The Edge 60 is available for €429, and the Edge 60 Pro is expected to be priced at €599, with no plans for a U.S. launch.

    Motorola is introducing two pricier smartphones in the Edge 60 series, with the standard Edge 60 priced at €100 more than the Edge 60 Fusion. The design of these three phones from the Edge 60 series is quite alike. Motorola has chosen a curved screen, a fabric-textured back, and a square camera module housing three lenses.

    Display Features

    Both the Edge 60 and Edge 60 Pro are said to feature the same 6.67-inch 120Hz pOLED display as the Edge 60 Fusion. Motorola claims a peak brightness of 4,500 nits for all models, and the fingerprint scanner remains built into the screen. Both phones have an IP68 rating, meaning they are resistant to water. The camera systems have been enhanced, with the new models sporting a 50MP f/1.8 main camera that has a 1/1.56-inch sensor, along with a 50MP f/2.0 ultrawide camera, a 10MP f/2.0 telephoto camera with 3x zoom, and a 50MP f/2.0 front camera.

    Camera Capabilities

    With Pantone optimizations, the cameras are said to be very precise in capturing colors and particularly skin tones. Similar to the Edge 60 Fusion, the Motorola Edge 60 is equipped with the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 and a 5,200mAh battery that supports charging via USB-C at speeds of up to 68 watts. Conversely, the Edge 60 Pro utilizes the faster Dimensity 8350 and boasts a bigger 6,000mAh battery that can be charged through cable at speeds of up to 90 watts, or wirelessly at up to 15 watts.

    Pricing and Availability

    The Motorola Edge 60 is currently on sale with 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage for €429 in several European markets. The Motorola Edge 60 Pro is anticipated to be released soon, offering the same specifications for €599. These smartphones are not likely to be launched in the United States.

    Source:
    Link

    Motorola Edge 60 Pro: 50MP Camera, 4500-Nit Display, 6000mAh BatteryMotorola Edge 60 Pro: 50MP Camera, 4500-Nit Display, 6000mAh BatteryMotorola Edge 60 Pro: 50MP Camera, 4500-Nit Display, 6000mAh Battery

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Motorola Razr+ 2025: Affordable Alternative to Razr Ultra

    Motorola Razr+ 2025: Affordable Alternative to Razr Ultra

    Key Takeaways

    1. Motorola is launching three new foldable smartphones in 2023: Razr Ultra, Razr+ 2025, and Razr 2025.
    2. The Razr+ 2025 features a new Midnight Blue color, while retaining the previous colors and design.
    3. It has an improved IP48 rating for dust and water resistance, compared to the IPX8 rating of the Razr+ 2024.
    4. The phone comes pre-installed with Android 15 and includes a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, 12GB RAM, and a 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED display.
    5. Pricing for the Razr+ 2025 is not yet announced but is expected to be lower than the Razr Ultra’s starting price of $1,300.

    This year, the US will see not just two but three new foldable smartphones from Motorola. The Motorola Razr Ultra, also known as the Razr 60 Ultra in Europe, is set to be the flagship. Additionally, the company has unveiled the Razr+ 2025 and the Razr 2025. This piece will zero in on the Razr+ 2025, which occupies a space between the Ultra and the standard Razr.

    Design and Colors

    The Razr+ 2025 retains most of the features from its earlier version, the Razr+ 2024. In terms of looks, it might be difficult for customers to distinguish between the two models since the new Razr+ 2025 comes in the same Pantone Mocha Mousse and Hot Pink shades as the previous version. However, the 2025 model introduces a fresh Midnight Blue color that wasn’t available last year. The size and weight of the phone remain unchanged.

    Key Improvements

    There is a notable upgrade, a major one that elevates the Razr+ 2025 to the same level as the new Razr Ultra. Unlike last year’s model which had an IPX8 rating for dust and water, the Razr+ 2025 comes with an IP48 rating.

    Software and Specifications

    Another key difference lies in the software. The Razr+ 2025 comes pre-installed with Android 15, featuring new options for customizing the home screen of its external display and an enhanced version of Moto AI. Aside from these updates, the Razr+ 2025 is quite similar to its predecessor. It features a 6.9-inch LTPO AMOLED display with a 165Hz refresh rate, a 4.0-inch cover display also at 165Hz, a Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 processor, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB UFS 4.0 storage. Additionally, it includes a 32MP front camera, dual rear cameras, and a 4,000mAh battery that supports both 45W fast wired charging and 15W wireless charging.

    Pricing Information

    Motorola has yet to disclose the price for the Razr+ 2025, as the product page indicates it is “coming soon.” Nonetheless, it is expected to be priced lower than the Razr Ultra, which starts at $1,300. The Razr+ 2024 had a launch price of $999, but it is currently available for $799.99 on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: , ,
  • OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition Specs and Launch Timeline Revealed

    OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition Specs and Launch Timeline Revealed

    Key Takeaways

    1. OnePlus is expected to launch three smartphones in the second quarter, including the OnePlus 13T and two Ace brand models.
    2. The OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition will feature a 6.77-inch LTPS OLED display and is rumored to be powered by the Dimensity 9400e processor.
    3. The phone will likely have a 16-megapixel front camera and a rear camera setup with a 50-megapixel main sensor and a 2-megapixel secondary lens.
    4. It is anticipated to have a large 7,000mAh battery and competitive performance compared to Snapdragon-equipped devices.
    5. The launch of the OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition is planned for late May.

    Several sources have suggested that OnePlus is set to launch three smartphones in the upcoming second quarter. Today, the company has already introduced the OnePlus 13T. The other two models, which will be part of the Ace brand, are expected to feature the Dimensity 9400e and Dimensity 9400 Plus processors. Initially, these devices were thought to be named Ace 5V and Ace 5S. However, a fresh leak from tipster Digital Chat Station indicates that the device with the Dimensity 9400e will actually be called the OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition.

    OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition Specs (Rumored)

    According to DCS, the OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition is rumored to have a 6.77-inch LTPS OLED display with a flat design. It might be powered by the yet-to-be-revealed Dimensity 9400e chip, which is believed to be a modified version of the Dimensity 9300 Plus. For taking selfies, the phone is expected to feature a 16-megapixel front camera, while the rear camera setup could consist of a 50-megapixel main sensor along with a 2-megapixel secondary lens. Additional information from the leak suggests that the phone will include an in-display optical fingerprint scanner and will utilize a plastic frame for its build.

    Battery and Performance Expectations

    Previous reports indicate that the Ace 5 Racing Edition is likely to come with a huge 7,000mAh battery. Regarding the chipset, recent information has suggested that the Dimensity 9400e could provide superior performance compared to the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4. As a result, it is anticipated to compete with devices like the Redmi Turbo 4 Pro and the iQOO Z10 Turbo, which are equipped with the Snapdragon processor.

    Launch Timeline for OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition

    Based on a post from DCS on Weibo earlier this week, OnePlus is planning to launch its dual Ace-branded flagship smartphones in the latter part of May.

    OnePlus Ace 5 Racing Edition Specs and Launch Timeline Revealed
    Tags: , ,
  • CheckMag: Transform Your Android into a Light Phone with All Features

    CheckMag: Transform Your Android into a Light Phone with All Features

    Key Takeaways

    1. Growing awareness of social media and smartphone impacts on mental health is driving interest in “dumb phones” like the Light Phone.
    2. Using a Light Phone requires significant commitment due to the loss of convenience from banking, transport, and communication apps.
    3. Olauncher offers a free alternative for Android users, mimicking the Light Phone experience with a minimal interface and essential features.
    4. Self-discipline is necessary when using Olauncher to avoid distractions, as users can still access app stores.
    5. Other minimalist launchers like Niagra Launcher and LessPhone exist, but Olauncher remains free of ads and costs.

    Awareness is growing about how social media and smartphones affect our mental well-being, leading to a rise in “dumb phones.” Companies like Light are seizing the opportunity to offer alternatives for those wanting to escape the lure of smartphones. As reviews for the Light Phone 3 start to appear, it’s becoming evident that you really need to be dedicated to leaving behind a smartphone to use one.

    The Commitment to Change

    Many banks, payment apps, and even public transport heavily rely on the use of apps, making it quite challenging to function without a smartphone. Moreover, lots of us have invested significant amounts in high-end smartphones for their excellent cameras, navigation, and messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp. Choosing to use a Light Phone means giving up almost all these conveniences.

    A Handy Alternative

    Fortunately, there’s a useful free app called Olauncher: Minimal AF Launcher (with AF meaning Advertising-Free) that mimics the Light Phone experience on any Android device. This app replaces your current launcher and provides a straightforward text interface that resembles the Light Phone. You can set up to 8 shortcuts on your home screen, which can also show the date, time, and your total screen time. The app drawer transforms into a text list of apps in alphabetical order, and you can quickly search for apps using the keyboard.

    You can access some additional helpful features, like swiping left for the camera and right for contacts. Unlike the Light Phone, multitasking is available, and you can even set a daily wallpaper, but that might defeat the purpose of minimizing the device’s appeal.

    Self-Control is Key

    Using Olauncher still requires some self-discipline. You have to remove any apps you wish to avoid, and even then, there’s nothing stopping you from going back to the Play Store to download them again. However, to be prepared to spend $599 (early bird) or $799 (regular price) on a Light Phone, you would need a certain level of self-control already.

    Exploring Alternatives

    There are other options out there too. Niagra Launcher is a well-known choice that has been available for several years, providing a similar but more visually appealing way to access your apps. Indestract: Minimalist Launcher and LessPhone: Minimal Launcher offer experiences akin to Olauncher, but all of these generally require some “in-app purchases” to unlock full features.

    OLauncher remains free of ads and costs (and will continue to be free, as per the developer). You can find it on Fdroid and Google Play, and its source code is available for review on Github.

    A Costly Experiment

    Trying out the Light Phone is certainly not an inexpensive way to see if you can live without a smartphone. You might want to consider a Nokia 3210 instead, though many might be deterred by the frustrating T9 text input.

    For Android users, it’s reassuring to know that there are distraction-free alternatives that allow us to retain the essential features and fantastic cameras of our current smartphones.

    Source:
    Link

    Tags: