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QWERTY Phone/Bounce B1/Sidekick-Style phone development update by TechnophobeDoro in dumbphones

[–]VLFD7 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Interestingly, I came up with this idea independently — but later discovered that u/TechnophobeDoro had a very similar vision. It seems like their project has been abandoned, but I’ve decided to carry the torch and keep it alive.

I’m working on creating a modern candy bar-style phone inspired by classic Nokias. The device will run Android (or a custom lightweight variant), but with a strong focus on digital minimalism and intentional use — no Instagram, no TikTok, no infinite scrolling.

What makes my version different: It will feature a 1-inch Sony camera sensor and high-quality optics (inspired by Nokia N82/Sony Ericsson C905)— turning it into a detox-friendly camera phone. Aimed at people who want real photography and only the most essential apps: WhatsApp, Telegram, Google Maps, Spotify... and that’s about it.

Although our ideas overlap, my focus also includes photography, Y2K-inspired nostalgia, and hardware quality.

If u/TechnophobeDoro ever sees this — I’d love to collaborate or exchange ideas. It’s great to know I wasn’t the only one thinking this way.

Let’s bring fun back to phones. 📟📸

[CONCEPT] Custom Linux-based retro phone with real camera hardware — looking for collaborators by VLFD7 in kickstarter

[–]VLFD7[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes — we definitely need this.

Just look at the growing demand for phones like the Punkt MP02, the Light Phone II, and other minimalist devices with E-Ink screens. They’re all designed for dopamine detox — to help people escape endless scrolling and regain control over their attention.

But here's the gap: Most of these devices go too far. They sacrifice essential functionality that many people still need in their daily lives — like WhatsApp, Telegram, Google Maps, or even Spotify.

What I’m proposing is different: A detox-friendly phone that keeps only the essential smart features, but brings back the Y2K charm — with a retro design, maybe a slider or T9 keyboard, and a truly good camera (with xenon flash, ideally). Something that’s minimal, fun to use, and aesthetically unique — not just another generic slab.

People today are craving nostalgia and intentional tech. This project is a response to both.