Commodore Callback 8020: Flip phone without browser, social networks, and 5G

2026-06-18 05:05 UTC

The manufacturer explicitly positions the device as a response to constant availability and what it considers problematic mechanisms of modern smartphone platforms. In conversation with heise, Commodore CEO Peri Fractic describes the Callback 8020 as a “not stupid dumbphone” for people who want to spend less time scrolling and more time in the real world. It is envisioned as a secondary device for staying reachable without being constantly exposed to the temptations of a smartphone with its notifications, apps, and games. The decision was influenced by his young daughter and his own behavior: “I was addicted to my smartphone,” says Prei Fractic. Fantastic. We need more people like that.

Replies (6)

@WhatsHerBucket@lemmy.world 2026-06-18 05:24

Great idea, but the price tag ($500) isn’t so great.

Open ##3400034
@jobbies@lemmy.zip 2026-06-18 05:47

Oh, you’ll love this. Peri Fractic isn’t even his name. Its like some gamer handle that he’s permanently adopted cos it sounds international or something. Was pretty excited about this phone but realised they haven’t actually said what specifically is and isn’t blocked, and if thats configurable. I’m not shelling out that coin for very little details. That, weird-name CEO and the AI-generaged promo mateterial doesnt really inspire confidence.

Open ##3400621
@lime@feddit.nu 2026-06-18 06:04

i read “the touch screen turns on in approved apps” and noped the hell out. this is a sailfish phone with proprietary tracking code and arbitrary undisclosed limitations. get an old xperia and install sailfish on that if you want the experience.

Open ##3401230
@twinnie@feddit.uk 2026-06-18 06:06

Why wouldn’t you just get an old Nokia for like £10? We see loads of these, they get released a you never hear from them again. You may like the idea but for most people you need stuff like a browser sometimes because it’s pretty much necessary in modern society.

Open ##3401334
@FuyuhikoDate@feddit.org 2026-06-18 06:38

A “dumb Phone” more expensive than a “entry smartphone” which I can cut doen to minimal needs is not a good idea.

Open ##3402184
@Babalugats@feddit.uk 2026-06-18 07:45

The Callback 8020 is set to be released in five variants. The BASIC Beige, ProtoPET White, and SX Silver models will each cost €499.99. Commodore is charging €549.99 for the transparent Starlight Edition. The Founders Edition, with a gold-plated “C=" key and gold-colored casing, will be offered for €640. They are a lovely looking phone, but I’m sure that they must be targeting a niche section of the market. There are definitely people that are pretentious enough to spend an extra €140 on an already expensive phone, so that they can have the gold plated “C=” on the front of the phone. I guess I know who they are targeting with these, and I’m glad I’m not one of them.

Open ##3403917