Commodore, the iconic computer manufacturer, is venturing back into hardware with the announcement of the Callback 8020, a new cell phone designed to eschew the pervasive digital distractions of modern smartphones. The device, sporting a flip phone design reminiscent of the early 2000s, is deliberately limited, omitting social media, email, and web browsing capabilities.
The Callback 8020 operates on Sailfish OS, described as a "completely de-Googled experience." While capable of running a significant portion of Android applications, it selectively disables those deemed to be major time sinks. This means core applications like Facebook and Instagram are inaccessible, and users cannot check email directly on the device. Communication is facilitated through text messaging, traditional phone calls, and WhatsApp.
Beyond basic communication, the phone includes an "audiophile grade DAC" for music playback and supports Spotify for listening to music and podcasts. It also features a built-in FM tuner. Photography is enabled by a 48MP camera, though the inability to immediately upload photos to social platforms encourages a more deliberate approach to capturing and revisiting images.
According to Commodore President and CEO Peri Fractic, the inspiration for the Callback 8020 stemmed from his own realization of smartphone addiction. This design philosophy aims to provide a middle ground between a basic "dumb phone" and a feature-rich smartphone.
The Callback 8020 is slated for release later this year. It will be available in three colorways: BASIC Beige, ProtoPET White, and SX Silver, priced at $499.99. A Starlight Edition will cost $549.99, and a limited Founders Edition, featuring a 24K gold-plated "C" button, will be available for $640.
Preorders are expected to open on Commodore's Callback website, where interested individuals can also join a waitlist. An earlier report incorrectly stated that Commodore had developed a custom version of WhatsApp with Meta; this information has since been removed.