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"This Isn't Your Granny's Flip Phone" - Commodore Defends Its $500 Dumbphone
Time Extension • • technology
Key Points:
- Commodore International announced the Callback 8020 flip phone, priced at $499, which received a largely negative response, with 82% of over 540 poll respondents saying they would not buy it.
- The company claims the Callback is a bespoke device with custom hardware, including a Commodore-designed PCB, audiophile-grade DAC chips, a 48MP Sony camera, and a unique Linux-based OS built with Sailfish OS.
- Commodore denies the phone is a rebadged cheap model, emphasizing its unique design and patented software elements, while acknowledging the high price is due to small production runs and rising component costs.
- The firm argues the phone offers a "digital detox" and a balance between basic and smart features, appealing to users wanting to reduce smartphone dependency, though critics question if the $500 price is justified given cheaper alternatives.
- Despite skepticism, Commodore positions the Callback as a niche, high-quality product aimed at those seeking value beyond specs, highlighting cultural attitudes toward technology consumption.
