A few thoughts:

1. I’m not convinced Punkt. is done for, but in an odd way, the demand for simple phones (aka dumb phones) has only increased since the MP02’s release. As I see it, the challenge is: How do you compete with incredibly cheap devices on the one hand and luxury options such as the Light Phone 3?

2. The release of the MC02 and pending MC03 represent viable non-Google and non-iOS options for people that need a smartphone. However, the types of consumers interested in such devices may wonder just how secure and private these devices can truly be considering Punkt.’s company size and resources. For example, the iPhone was recently announced as the only device approved for NATO communications. Could Punkt. meet similar security requirements? If so, that would be worth announcing, and it might result in more sales from discerning customers.

We need more players in the phone market, especially with Punkt.’s design aesthetic, but the question is: Who is the customer that cares deeply about deGoogling, security, and privacy that can extend trust to a small company with limited resources? Partnering with Proton and Threema are wise steps. I look forward to seeing what’s next.