Keyphone: A Modular Keyboard Phone with a Retro Twist
On July 28, a unique modular phone called Keyphone made its debut on the crowdfunding platform Indiegogo. This phone is designed to evoke the nostalgia of classic Nokia and BlackBerry devices while offering modern functionality.
Modular Design
Keyphone's standout feature is its modular design. Both the front keyboard and the rear camera can be easily detached and swapped out. Users can choose from three different keyboard modules: a T9 keypad, a full QWERTY keyboard, or a full touchscreen module. This flexibility allows users to customize the phone's appearance and functionality to suit their preferences. For instance, the T9 keypad gives it a traditional feature phone look, the full keyboard resembles BlackBerry devices, and the full touchscreen option brings back the feel of early Nokia S60V5 smartphones.
Customizable Camera
The rear camera module is also detachable, catering to users who prioritize privacy. For those who want more than just a basic camera, Keyphone plans to offer upgradeable camera modules and even speaker modules in the future. However, these additional modules are still under development, and no specific details or images have been released yet.
Retro-Inspired OS
Keyphone runs on a custom Skin OS, which is based on Android 15. The interface and operation logic are specifically designed for keyboard use, aiming to provide a "pure" system experience. The main screen's appearance is reminiscent of the S60V5 and Symbian 3 interfaces, giving users a familiar yet modern feel.
Hardware Specifications
While the exact processor details are not disclosed, Keyphone claims that its 4GB of RAM is sufficient for smooth multitasking. The phone supports dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0, and 4G dual-SIM functionality, ensuring reliable connectivity. Additionally, the phone features a removable battery with a capacity of 2400mAh, which is a practical feature for users who value long battery life and easy replacement.
Crowdfunding and Pricing
Keyphone's crowdfunding campaign will run for another 25 days. The phone is priced at $259 and is expected to start shipping in October this year.
For those who miss the simplicity and tactile satisfaction of physical keyboards but still want modern smartphone capabilities, Keyphone offers an intriguing option. Its modular design and customizable features make it a standout choice in the market.
