In a world dominated by AI-powered smartphones, Minimal Phone dares to go against the grain. This unconventional device features a 4.3-inch E Ink display, a full QWERTY keyboard, and runs on Android 14. Created by The Minimal Company, it aims to offer a digital detox alternative for users looking to reduce their screen time.
A Counter-Trend to AI-Powered Smartphones
As smartphones become increasingly powerful and AI-driven, a niche but growing movement is pushing back—opting for simpler, distraction-free devices often referred to as “dumb phones” or digital detox phones. Companies like HMD have embraced this shift, and Minimal Phone is the latest contender in this space.
What Sets Minimal Phone Apart?
Powered by the MediaTek Helio G99 chipset, Minimal Phone packs a mid-range processor typically found in budget-friendly devices. It comes in two configurations: 6GB or 8GB RAM, with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD. While it runs Android 14 and supports Google Play apps, the E Ink screen makes modern app usage noticeably slower than on traditional LCD or OLED displays.
The 4.3-inch E Ink display has a 600×800 resolution, a pixel density of 230 PPI, and is designed for readability and low power consumption. However, its slow refresh rate—ranging from 2 to 5 FPS—translates to a browsing experience that feels radically different from mainstream smartphones. The physical QWERTY keyboard, featuring 35 keys with an ultra-short travel distance of just 0.015mm, may also pose a challenge for typists.
On the camera front, Minimal Phone includes a 16MP rear shooter and a 5MP front-facing camera, though its grayscale screen makes it difficult to fully appreciate photo quality. Connectivity-wise, it supports USB-C, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and Dual SIM 4G. Additionally, it offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, and NFC for contactless payments—ensuring it retains some modern functionalities despite its minimalist philosophy.
One surprising feature is its 3,000 mAh battery, which supports 15W wireless charging—an unexpected inclusion for a device focused on simplicity.
Pricing & Availability
Minimal Phone comes in three colors—Pebble, Onyx, and Fusion—and is available in two hardware configurations:
- 6GB RAM / 128GB storage – $400
- 8GB RAM / 256GB storage – $500
By blending modern connectivity with an intentionally slow-paced experience, Minimal Phone offers an alternative for users who want to stay connected without falling into the smartphone rabbit hole.
via Zona IT
Recent comments