Linux-based phone still ‘runs 99% of Android apps’ so you can do more with it, if you wish.

Linux-based phone still ‘runs 99% of Android apps’ so you can do more with it, if you wish

  • MolochHorridus@piefed.socialEnglish
    0·
    3 hours ago

    Shipping with WhatsApp but blocking browser installs even by APK, what the hell?

    From the FAQ:

    “Callback allows any Android APK to be sideloaded, except for social media and browsers which are proven to have negative mental health effects.”

    “WhatsApp comes preinstalled.”

    • MolochHorridus@piefed.socialEnglish
      0·
      2 hours ago

      Their reasoning for this is even flimsier:

      “Because the browser is the back door. Most social media, feeds, video sites, news spirals, and endless searches are still available through the web. Blocking only the apps would leave the main temptation intact.”

      Imagine using social media apps on 3,25” 640x480 screen. Now imagine using simple text heavy web pages, like Wikipedia on that screen. One is possible, even useful the other pure bullshit.

  • laranis@lemmy.zip
    0·
    4 hours ago
    • $500
    • Runs 99% of Android apps
    • Blocks work and social apps
    • Blocks browser installs

    Who is this for?

    • AbsolutelyNotAVelociraptor@piefed.socialEnglish
      0·
      3 hours ago

      They can’t be installed from the app store, but you can sideload the apk to install them.

      Who is this for? Me. If it didn’t cost $500, I’d get it. I don’t have any social apps and I have a work phone (that I leave in the office when my shift ends). I would simply install a firefox fork apk and be done with it. No socials (aside lemmy), and no need for work apps. This phone would be for me if the price were something in the 200-300 area.

      • noodles@slrpnk.net
        0·
        3 hours ago

        Sounds like you want the sidephone then maybe. I think this is a cool idea but there’s like 8 other implementations for hundreds left. Unless the main draw is Linux, but if it’s pushing to run android apps then why not stick with degoogled android like all the others?

        • AbsolutelyNotAVelociraptor@piefed.socialEnglish
          0·
          3 hours ago

          I have a pixel with grapheneOS. I’m already degoogled, but this one looks like a cool nostalgia gadget that would be cool to have for a less outrageous price. I like the design and the idea (and the linux part), but I don’t think $500 is the price they should be asking.

    • Alk@sh.itjust.works
      0·
      4 hours ago

      Yeah, I get wanting it to be for disconnecting from social media and doomscroll but to actually block the apps? What if someone changes their mind and legitimately needs to access if for some reason? Buy a new phone? No way. My phone is a tool and I should be able to use it how I want. This is no different than Google blocking 3rd party apps. Let me run what I want on my own phone.