Commodore Unveils Callback 8020 Flip Phone Designed to Block Social Media and Browsers
Commodore has introduced the Callback 8020, a Sailfish OS flip phone priced from $499. This device aims to discourage 'doomscrolling' by deliberately blocking social media platforms, web browsers, email clients, and workplace applications. While it runs most Android apps and supports essential services like messaging, maps, and ridesharing, it features patent-pending technology and DNS-level blocking to prevent the use of restricted applications. Preorders for the Callback 8020 are scheduled to open on June 30, with shipping targeted for winter.
Commodore has announced the release of the Callback 8020, a new flip phone running on Sailfish OS. The device, which starts at $499, is designed with a core focus on limiting digital distractions by preventing access to social media, web browsers, email, and workplace applications.
Marketed as a "not dumb dumbphone," the Callback 8020 supports a range of essential Android applications. These include popular messaging services such as WhatsApp, SMS, Signal, Telegram, and WeChat, alongside music streaming via Spotify, ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft, maps, podcasts, QR scanning, voice notes, and hotspot functionality. Conversely, apps like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Gmail, and traditional browsers are intentionally blocked.
To enforce these restrictions, Commodore has developed patent-pending technology that prevents the sideloading of browsers and social media applications. Additionally, DNS-level blocking is implemented to ensure these services cannot function even if illicitly installed. Users can still sideload other non-restricted applications not available on the Commostore.
The Callback 8020 features a 3.25-inch internal touch-capable display with a 480 x 640 resolution, though touch functionality is disabled by default. The outer display is minimalistic, showing only time, battery status, signal strength, and notifications via dome LEDs. Internally, it is equipped with a MediaTek Helio G81 chip, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. Photography is handled by a 48MP Sony rear camera and an autofocus front camera. Connectivity options include dual SIM support, USB-C, a headphone jack, FM radio, 4G VoLTE, and Wi-Fi, but notably excludes 5G, which Commodore states better fits the device's intent to discourage constant streaming.
Adding to its nostalgic appeal, the phone incorporates T9-style texting with predictive input and includes Commodore SID ringtones. It comes pre-loaded with a selection of Commodore and Sailfish games, including Snake. The model name "8020" is a direct reference to Commodore's 8010 modem from 1980. Available in various editions, prices range from $499 for standard models (ProtoPET White, SX Silver, BASIC Beige), $549.99 for the translucent Starlight Edition, and $640 for the Founders Edition, which features a 24-karat gold-plated Commodore button.
Preorders for the Callback 8020 are set to commence on June 30, with shipping anticipated in the winter months. (Source: Slashdot)
