The Wisephone 2: minimalistic smart dumbphone

Privacy and Security News
1

Update: found a great review video (shows off the phone and they talk about its controversy and why it is a Samsung device):

Wisephone ii)

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Android Security + Samsung Knox: Wisephone benefits from default Android security, with an added layer of Samsung Knox security. Knox is a robust mobile device management system that helps maintain a secure environment and ensures timely software updates. Plus, there’s no ability to side-load apps, preventing unauthorized or potentially harmful installations.

No social media, No explicit content, No web browser, No solo media

  • Simple & Focused Experience

  • 50MP Camera

  • 5G x Octa-core Processor

  • Multi-day Battery with Fast Charging

  • Vetted Third-Party Apps (Optional)

  • Safe From Porn*, Social Media, Games, and Doom-Scrolling. *When used as designed (without additional apps)

  • Bring Your Own Carrier or Use Ours

  • World-Class Customer Support is a Text Away

It does have Signal.

As they have a store that they specifically curated for the user and the user cannot add a browser to this phone. It does have password managers, proton, etc.

These tools have been requested by Wisephone II users and have been vetted in accordance to the Healthy Tech Index.

Bring your own carrier

Keep Your Phone Plan

No need to change carriers. Keep your current plan and phone number but enjoy the freedom of Wisephone.

Techless Subscription

WiseOS Tools Included: Music, Calculator, Maps, Phone, Messages, Camera, Flashlight, Photos, Clock, Notes, Two-Factor Auth, and Calendar.

Human Customer Support

Our support team is U.S. based and ready to help.

Techless Tool Drawer (optional)

Includes access to curated 3rd party tools to increase effectiveness and abilities of the Wisephone

No long-term contracts

We don’t lock you in to long, onerous contracts. Our Techless Subscription is month-to-month.

Peace of mind

Wisephone provides you with space to connect with those around you, dream of the future, and finally get to that project you’ve been wanting to.

Techless Subscription

Bring Your Own Carrier

$14.99/mo*

Techless Celluar Plan

All Techless Plans include

Unlimited Calling & Texting

We encourage you to stay connected to those you love, that’s why calling and texting is unlimited.

Techless Subscription

WiseOS Tools Included: Music, Calculator, Maps, Phone, Messages, Camera, Flashlight, Photos, Clock, Notes, Two-Factor Auth, and Calendar.

Keep Your Phone Number (optional)

Transfer your current phone number, no need to change your digits. If you want a new number, getting one is super easy.

High Speed Data

Includes high-speed data each month depending on your plan. After reaching your plan limit, data will be throttled to 128kbps. You may purchase additional GBs of high-speed data at $5/GB.

Human Customer Support

Our support team is U.S. based and ready to help.

Tool Drawer (optional)

Includes access to curated 3rd party tools to increase effectiveness and abilities of the Wisephone

Mobile Hotspot (optional)

Connect your laptop and other devices using your cellular plan. Filtering for explicit content via hotspot is coming soon.

No long-term contracts

We don’t lock you in to long, onerous contracts. All of our plans are month-to-month services.

Peace of mind

Wisephone provides you with space to connect with those around you, dream of the future, and finally get to that project you’ve been wanting to.

Choose The Data You Need

Tip: it’s probably less than you use right now.

1 GB data per month

1GB Plan

Best for teens & digital minimalists

$24.99/mo*

Essential Data (Minimal)

Includes 1GB of data each month with no overages—most users will find this is enough data for essential phone functions. You can add additional GBs of data at $9/GB.

5 GB data per month

5GB Plan

Most popular

$44.99/mo*

Balanced Data (Healthy)

Includes 5GB of data each month—enough for most users—with each added gigabyte charged at $9/GB.

Unlimited data per month

Unlimited

Perfect for working professionals

$69.99/mo*

Unlimited Data (Pro)

Includes up to 50GB of high-speed data each month, throttled to 128kbps after.

How can I trust that Wisephone is secure?

Your security and privacy are top priorities, and you should feel confident with Wisephone. Here’s how Wisephone ensures safety:

  1. Privacy First: Your data is not going to be sold, and there is a commitment to safeguard your personal information. With Wisephone, your data is always yours—no hidden agendas. (Unless you choose to agree to third-party terms)
  2. Locked-Down Experience: Powered by WiseOS, a locked-down version of Android, Wisephone has far fewer vulnerabilities than typical smartphones, keeping unwanted intrusions at bay. Its minimalist approach means less risk of security breaches.
  3. Android Security + Samsung Knox: Wisephone benefits from default Android security, with an added layer of Samsung Knox security. Knox is a robust mobile device management system that helps maintain a secure environment and ensures timely software updates. Plus, there’s no ability to side-load apps, preventing unauthorized or potentially harmful installations.
  4. No Access to Explicit Content: Designed with families in mind, Wisephone blocks explicit content and helps protect everyone—kids and adults alike—from inappropriate material.
  5. Software Updates: Continuous updates are released to improve security, fix bugs, and stay ahead of new threats, ensuring your phone remains secure and functional over time.
  6. Accountability Tools: For added peace of mind, Wisephone plans to offer a separate “account owner” feature, promoting transparency and helping you stay in control.

Wisephone is your trusted companion in a secure, intentional digital space, letting you focus on what truly matters—without the distractions. Plus, with all third-party apps in the Tool Drawer carefully vetted for safety, you can use your phone with confidence.

Apps Confirmed/Allowed A-E
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Apps E-M
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Apps M-V
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Apps V-Z

Wisephone’s FAQ

Wisephone offers two different experiences for you to choose:

  • Emergency Phone Experience (FREE): Provides only the core functions: calling, texting, settings, camera for photos/videos, and a photo gallery.
    Note: Once our safety software is fully implemented, this experience will not include access to the new feature designed to provide a 99.99% porn-free environment
  • No Tool Drawer (Subscription-based): Includes all of the essential tools listed above. We have also made the following third-party apps available: LocalSend, SmartSwitch, Waze, Google Drive, and Life360.
  • Tool Drawer ON (Subscription-based): Grants access to all vetted third-party apps like Uber, Signal, and Spotify. Other app categories include banking, communication, productivity, and more. Mobile Hotspot is unlocked with this choice as well. Review the approved apps list HERE.

It’s all about maintaining the experience of a secure, reliable, and distraction-free phone.

5

I’m kinda failing to understand what that is because for me it looks like a Samsung A15 with a custom launcher and a custom store and you’re paying $400 instead of the $250 you’d pay for an “stock” Samsung A15

6
I believe the review below explains it better. But Here’s my take if you still want to read it:

What may not be of direct benefit to you could potentially be of value to another individual. The pricing of the product is largely subjective and varies based on an individual’s financial situation and preferences toward what they consider worth it in their life.

The primary purpose of the phone is to offer a minimalist experience with its own operating system and curated app store. It’s following on the dumbphone craze that some people are going towards as they’re trying to limit their online usage.

It is not intended for individuals who desire unrestricted access to various applications. Instead, it primarily serves as a first-time smartphone for children or for adults seeking a device with essential smartphone capabilities, without the drawbacks associated with smartphones such as email, social media, and web browsing. As, those apps cannot be added or found on the device.

The high price is likely attributed to the costs associated with developing the vetted app store, maintaining the operating system, and providing ongoing updates. These expenses are probably not directly related to the device itself. But the software and team behind it. As, they are not as big as other companies and probably don’t have a big budget.

The phone’s niche market may limit its sales. To address this, the company has introduced a subscription service that grants access to the app store. Additionally, they have launched their own cellular service to bundle the subscription and cellular service into a single, competitive price point.

Alternatively, users can opt to bring their preferred cellular service and subscribe to their subscription service separately to get the additional features.

Reviews:

[Wisephone 2: The Ultimate "Dumb" Phone? (2025 Review)]

The Wisephone 2 is a smart minimalist phone that launched last summer. It is a healthy phone that’s free of clutter and distractions. It’s a great alternative to the Light Phone and old-school feature phones.

It is a Samsung A15 5G with a custom operating system called Wise OS.

quick specs:

  • Price: $399
  • Size: 160.1mm x 76.8mm x 8.4mm
  • Memory: 128GB w/ 6GB Ram + MicroSD slot
  • Camera: 50MP
  • Charging port: USB-C
  • Headphone jack: Yes
  • Availability: U.S. only

Why the subscription? Here’s from Techless:

“Unlike typical smartphone features, the subscription isn’t just about providing tools—it’s about delivering robust security, a distraction-free environment, and access to a carefully curated selection of vetted third-party apps. The Essential Toolset and optional Custom Tool Drawer run on top of our advanced safety framework. “

On the Wisephone, “apps” are “tools”, and the app store is called the Tool Drawer.

You won’t find Instagram, Amazon, or Gmail in the Tool Drawer. Techless is intentional about filtering out distracting and addictive apps. Wise OS was designed to provide a healthy phone experience. According to Techless, these apps aren’t.

What other apps will you not find on a Wisephone? Here’s a non-exhaustive list.

  • :cross_mark: Browsers (Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
  • :cross_mark: AI (ChatGPT, Claud, Gemini)
  • :cross_mark: Email (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail)
  • :cross_mark: Video Streaming (Netflix, YouTube, Hulu)
  • :cross_mark: Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok)
  • :cross_mark: E-commerce (Amazon, eBay, Etsy)
  • :cross_mark: Dating (Tinder, Bumble, Hinge)
  • :cross_mark: Gaming (Candy Crush, Royal Match, Roblox)

If you prefer, you can check out the full list of apps available in the Tool Drawer.

Don’t see your favorite apps here? You can request them from your Wisephone’s settings or via this form.

The Techless team reviews every single request manually. They vet each app per the Healthy Tech Index. If it passes, it gets added. That’s why you’ll find niche apps in the Tool Drawer, like GuitarTuna or Lake Michigan Credit Union.

Here are the 10 criteria Techless uses to evaluate an app:

  • Competes with or try to set the user’s core values and priorities?
  • Encourages an unhealthy focus on success, appearance, or materialism?
  • Promotes content that encourages disrespect or trivializes important societal beliefs or principles?
  • Hinders the user’s ability to rest and maintain a healthy digital life balance?
  • Encourages disrespect for family relationships and societal structures?
  • Glorifies violence, hatred, or harm to others?
  • Exposes the user to inappropriate content or tempts them towards harmful behavior?
  • Encourages dishonesty, cheating, or unethical practices?
  • Encourages spreading misinformation or engaging in harmful gossip?
  • Fosters envy or dissatisfaction with the user’s life?

I like that Techless acts as a guardian of online privacy and mental clarity. They do the research most of us don’t bother with, like reading Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policies.

Screenshot of the wisephone tool drawer
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The Tool Drawer

bottom line: who’s the wisephone for?

The Wisephone 2 is designed for anyone craving a simpler, more intentional way to use their phone—free from unnecessary distractions. It’s practical, straightforward, and fits beautifully into different lifestyles:

  • For digital wellbeing: If you’re tired of spending too much time glued to your phone, constantly distracted, or struggling to stay focused, the Wisephone 2 helps you regain control. It gives you what you need and cuts out what you don’t.
  • For kids: It’s a great option for children who need a phone to stay in touch, without the constant pull of social media, games, or endless apps. Just enough functionality to stay connected—nothing more.
  • For mums: Whether you’re managing a busy household or juggling work and family life, the Wisephone 2 keeps you reachable without pulling you into the endless cycle of notifications and scrolling.
  • For the elderly: Its simplicity makes it a perfect choice for older relatives. It’s easy to use and doesn’t overwhelm them with unnecessary features, while still helping them stay connected.

It’s a phone that focuses on what really matters—connection, not distraction.

The Wisephone 2 isn’t for everyone. If you rely on your phone for constant access to email, web browsing, and content discovery, this probably won’t suit your needs. It’s built for simplicity, not for tech enthusiasts or people looking for the latest high-end smartphone experience.

[Lightphone II vs. Wisephone - Restored to Land]

[Techless Wisephone Review: Take Back Your Life With the Dumb Smart Phone | Reviews | The Phoenix Spirit]

[https://trentcasto.com/a-brief-and-honest-review-of-the-wisephone-by-techless/] - Old review in which the reviewer mentions they wish they could download additional apps. Which is now a feature with the vetted App Store.

7

Sounds a bit like double dipping to me, I also don’t think that there is much “maintaining the OS” going on since Knox is working and as far as I know (let me know if I’m wrong) Knox only works with an untampered OneUI.
I can see a value in their launcher and the vetted App Store but idk if the value is $150 + $15 a month.

I’m clearly not the audience for this product.

8

This that you quoted was just my opinion. I don’t know if that is why the device is priced more. But all minimalistic phones are around that price:

  • Light Phone 3: $799 for Retail once released, $599 Preorder, also does not have signal or the option to download other apps.
  • Punkt MP02: $299.00 USD: Has the option with Signal with Pigeon.
  • minimal company phone: $499.00 Retail $399.00 Preorder just a android phone with all available apps as it has the PlayStore. Does have an e-ink screen though. But it is like an old school blackberry with a physical keyboard.

Yep

10

This just doesn’t make sense. Since the physical phone is a normal smart phone, you could simply install something like Lineage and then do nothing else with it besides remove the apps.

2 Likes
11

The reason for this phone is for people to not have the option to be able to install or have any access to addictive or harmful apps. The device’s selling point is that it is restrictive.

Keywords: in its description “Minimalistic Dumbphone”

Won’t be everyone’s niche. But for some, they welcome this type of device.

But there is also a whole channel dedicated to these type of devices @jbriones:

This device is a perfect device for a child or teen. Or for someone who wants a dumbphone and wants it to be a phone that is more simple. But not too dumb to not have Signal, maps, music, and password managers.

It is trying to differentiate itself from the other dumb phones like (Light Phone, Punkt, Sunbeam, etc.). You can do more stuff with Wisephone like a modern smartphone. But it has none of the negatives of a smartphone. As in complete technological freedom to surf (no browser) or install any app that you want.

The entire device is locked down with its own operating system made by Techless called WiseOS, a partnership with Samsung to use their device to create a unique device with its own software implementation of a dumbphone.

Yes, it is a Samsung device. But they reworked the software behind it.

No play store or alternative play store. Just their tool drawer of curated apps (where Techless reads the terms and conditions and privacy policy of the apps, gauges it between a guideline for how addictive/privacy invasive they are, and if the app should be allowed in the tool drawer). So, there will be no web browsers, social media, etc.

Only apps like password managers, maps, music, etc. Like mentioned before.

Side-loaded apps and custom ROMs are not allowed. Nor can you do it. It is entirely locked down.

It’s similar to how Verizon locks down their Pixel devices. You cannot add custom ROMs to Verizon Pixel devices. That is why it is always recommended to buy Pixels not from Verizon.

Post in thread ‘Verizon Pixel 6 Pro Bootloader Unlock?’
[Question - Verizon Pixel 6 Pro Bootloader Unlock? | XDA Forums]
Az Biker

Senior Moderator / RC-RT Committee-Shred’r of MTBs

Staff member
Nov 3, 2021 #5

If you purchased your device from Verizon, or a Verizon variant from a 3rd party retailer (Best buy, Costco, etc.) the bootloader is locked tight!

If you want the option to root; return your VZW device and order one directly from Google.

12
Reddit comments about Verizon Pixel Bootloaders being locked

https://www.reddit.com/r/AndroidQuestions/comments/15dub5l/comment/ju411u3/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=mweb3x&utm_name=mweb3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button

On Verizon phones you can’t unlock the bootloader and therefore can’t install any custom ROM.

https://www.reddit.com/r/AndroidQuestions/comments/15dub5l/comment/ju44cx5/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=mweb3x&utm_name=mweb3xcss&utm_term=1&utm_content=share_button

You’re not gonna be installing a custom rom. That requires unlocking the bootloader which can’t be done on VZW issued devices. Those come hardware locked from the factory.

13

https://support.google.com/pixelphone/thread/311824628/is-it-true-that-you-can-t-unlock-the-bootloader-on-a-verizon-pixel?hl=en

Google Support about Verizon Pixel Bootloaders being locked

Матвей777
Original Poster

Dec 6, 2024

Hello, im have Pixel 7 for Verizon

I heard that on Pixels for Verizon you can’t unlock the bootloader

I bought a Pixel 7 Verizon as far as I know its contract is over because it works with all carriers

And you can unlock the bootloader

Is this normal?

Sorry for mistakes, English isnt my native Language

(Sorry for asking this question for the second time, the first time I didn’t translate it correctly)

Reply:

Benjamin
Diamond Product Expert

Dec 6, 2024

Correct, Verizon bootloaders are locked and cannot be unlocked.

14

So, do you work for the company Techless?

Made me curious to look up more… so, the company develops WiseOS as a custom rom, but there seems to be zero transparency in regards to it.

Does WiseOS offer:

  • A specific software license
  • Source code
  • Does it clarify what projects it is using upstream?
  • Curious if the apps are rebrands.
  • Is there any sort of community support besides the sub-reddit?

The mission statement does not address any of this, which seems very important in being transparent. Curious to know more.

15

You can still literally no joke still replicate this in the end with using lineage or graphene on a pixel, uninstalling or rather disabling vanadium/browser, only reinstalling it or enabling it for maintenance reasons.
for reference here’s how my “Full Focus” setup looks like:
No app store, no browser shenanigan, just signal, my keyboard of choice and that’s it:

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signal-2025-03-24-233708_002
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and you can obviously expand this to have email if you want or the other things, like for example also installing tuta for email and having the means to update it once you get at home ready for maintenance.
so I agree with @sunjam and I stick on their side.

1 Like
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To be fair, we can all be on the same side. :heart:
Reclaiming our time and control is important.

Still really curious to know more, because we do have these other options. I can understand the phone being marketed to a specific person, but since it is being posted about to Techlore… let’s dig further. :nerd_face:

1 Like
17

You can’t replicate this concept on GrapheneOS. In theory, yes, you can remove the features you don’t want and achieve simplicity yourself.

However, you’ll still have complete control and the option to install all these apps yourself. But if you have poor self-control, it won’t work for you.

That’s why I keep saying this product is niche. You’re not providing any helpful insights on this topic. If you’re just saying, “Well, I can just do this on my fully capable device that I have complete control over,”

That’s not the point of dumbphone/minimalist phones, as I said.

The reason I’m posting this is that it offers an alternative to all the other dumbphone options available in the market. It provides some smartphone functionality, but it still is a dumbphone and supports Signal for downloading.

Light Phone 3 is just as great but is more expensive and does not have Signal just SMS.

No, I was just posting it. Why do you ask? I just read what they said on their website. If it’s about them researching the Terms of Service or privacy policy of the apps they vet in their tool drawer App Store, that was all covered in the review video. The reviewer directly spoke to the CEO and other relevant individuals of the company by email, and this information is also stated on their website you just have to find it.

Official apps you can get from tool drawer.

I’m not sure what you mean by that. Can you clarify what you’re referring to? Are you talking about the apps that come pre-installed on the phone, or the third-party apps that can be downloaded from the app store?

I saw that maps is “organic maps” from a video I saw. But I don’t have the phone to confirm if they changed it or not.

It is not open source. That doesn’t necessarily mean it is a bad thing.

The company had planned to manufacture its own phone, as evident from the review video. However, they repeatedly delayed the release date because it of manufacturing issues. Instead of inconveniencing customers by making them wait after preordering long ago, they decided to release the phone as a Samsung device and promptly provided refunds to those who desired them.

18

I diagree you can

That’s the point of uninstalling it and only reinstalling it when needing to maintain the installing it back in, and even with poor self control which I certainly have, having it disabled was enough and maintaining the profile at home outside of emergency isn’t a big ask for someone with even poor self-control

I wanted to reinforce @sunjam’s point of:

that is the point, turning a smartphone into a dumbphone yes a bit of a daunting task because now you need adb to get rid of things like vanadium and app stores temporarily and only reinstalling when making maintenance but when done right you can literally replicate the setup the company is providing, there is no black and white here, when intended, it did right.

cool, but at this point it would be cheaper to get the Punkt MP02 for all I could care instead of this.

and to reinforce my point on this. I used the same setup recently, being in a cafe with my friends with very successful result, and this is keep in mind, I myself have poor control, using this setup felt like I couldn’t do anything but talk with my friend and better yet the cafe I went in actually had cards, with that I used the opportunity to play IRL Liar’s Bar. Which speaking of I did completely forgot to put this in the win but here we are.
And it’s not just this, I use the setup in Family time, with again, success in that, I used my phone way less than normal…

19

Remember, everyone has different levels of self-control. It’s great to try and understand and empathize with others’ perspectives.

And why people are going the dumbphone route.

https://www.cbc.ca/arts/they-d-rather-have-dumbphones-than-brain-rot-1.7413866

With Punkt, users cannot access a password manager or a bank app, which is really essential in this day and age, making it significantly more restrictive compared to Wisephone. You can even suggest more apps to Techless to add. They will add them if they are not addictive, social media or a browser etc.

So, while Wisephone does not include a browser or social media applications just like Punkt, it does allow users to install password managers, Spotify, bank apps, and other essential services that are not available on Punkt.

1 Like
20

Again I am speaking as someone with poor self-control, so still not an excuse that this can’t be replicated (tfw its 2am and still playing marvel rivals, help)

21

:joy: I get that. All that aside.

When I meant that it can’t be replicated, I meant that the user can’t tamper with the device. In other words, it’s fully locked down. However, with GrapheneOS, the user retains complete control over the device and is the one responsible for ensuring that they don’t engage in activities they don’t want themselves to do.

Also using oneself as a reference for self-control or habits is not a universal symbol for all people and their measure of self control.

There are more reasons than just poor self-control for why people might prefer a dumb-down phone over a fully functional smartphone.

Your method may work for you, and I’m glad it does. However, others might prefer a simpler phone that’s not overly complex, can’t be tampered with, or bypassed.

Some of the advantages of using a truly restrictive dumbphone include:

  1. Protection from Addictive Features : Dumbphones do not support custom ROMs or the installation of addictive apps and features. This means users are protected from the carefully designed mechanisms that can lead to smartphone addiction, such as endless scrolling, push notifications, and gamification. This can help individuals maintain better control over their digital consumption and avoid the negative impacts of overuse.
  2. Enhanced Focus : By limiting access to distractions like apps and the internet, dumbphones help users stay focused on their tasks and reduce the temptation to multitask, which can improve productivity and efficiency.
  3. Improved Mental Health : The reduced exposure to constant notifications, social media, and other digital stimuli can lead to lower stress levels, reduced anxiety, and better overall mental well-being.
  4. Better Time Management : Without the endless scroll and app notifications, users can manage their time more effectively, leading to more productive and fulfilling days.
  5. Deeper Relationships : Dumbphones encourage more face-to-face interactions and deeper, more meaningful conversations, as they reduce the temptation to check devices during social interactions.
  6. Increased Physical Activity : With less time spent on screens, users are more likely to engage in physical activities, which can improve physical health and overall well-being.
  7. Enhanced Creativity : Limiting digital distractions can free up mental space for creative thinking and problem-solving, as users are less likely to be constantly bombarded with information.
  8. Simpler Decision-Making : With fewer options and features, dumbphones simplify decision-making processes, reducing cognitive load and mental fatigue.
  9. Better Sleep : Reduced screen time, especially before bed, can lead to better sleep quality and more restful nights.
  10. Mindful Living : Dumbphones encourage a more mindful and present lifestyle, helping users to be more aware of their surroundings and engage more fully with the world around them.
  11. Digital Detox : The restrictive nature of a dumbphone can serve as an effective tool for a digital detox, helping individuals take a break from the constant digital environment and reconnect with the physical world.
  12. Battery Life : Dumbphones generally have longer battery life, making them more reliable for extended periods without needing to recharge.
  13. Security : With fewer apps and features, dumbphones are less vulnerable to cyber threats and hacking. (Still depends on the brand and how they implement security measures)
  14. Child Safety : Parents often prefer dumbphones for their children to ensure they are safe from the potential risks and distractions of smartphones.
  15. Emergency Communication : For those who primarily need a phone for emergency situations, a dumbphone provides a reliable and straightforward solution.
  16. Personal Growth : Using a dumbphone can be a personal challenge that promotes self-discipline and helps individuals develop a healthier relationship with technology.
  17. Environmental Impact : Owning a dumbphone can be more environmentally friendly, as they have a longer lifespan and are less resource-intensive to produce. (Depending on the brand)
  18. Work-Life Balance : Dumbphones can help maintain a better work-life balance by reducing the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life.
  19. Simplify Life : Dumbphones offer a simpler, more straightforward way to handle basic communication needs without the complexity of smartphones.

Some cons of a truly restrictive dumbphone are:

  1. Lack of Essential Apps: Not all phones support the app people want. That are essential like banking and password managers. Encrypted messengers.
  2. Fully Restrictive Digital Device: The phone is severely restricted, preventing users from browsing the web or engaging in any form of gaming or entertainment while out and about. Consequently, if such activities are of interest to the individual, this type of phone may not be suitable for their needs.
  3. No Internet Access : The lack of internet access means you can’t use services like email, social media, or streaming platforms, which can be a significant drawback in today’s connected world.
  4. No Smart Home Integration : Dumbphones cannot control smart home devices, which can be a significant inconvenience if you have a smart home setup.
  5. No Video Calls : Dumbphones do not support video calls, which can be a limitation if you need to communicate visually with friends, family, or colleagues.
  6. No Personalization : Dumbphones offer limited options for personalizing the device, such as changing the wallpaper, installing themes, or customizing the user interface.
  7. No Cloud Services : Dumbphones do not support cloud services, which can make it difficult to sync data across devices or access cloud-based files.

Conclusion: It all depends on the individual and their personal preferences. Factors such as time management, emotional attachment to their device and internet usage, and thoughts about self-control play a crucial role in determining whether someone will likely consider buying a restrictive phone.

While some individuals may opt for your approach of custom ROMs and self-imposed digital well-being restrictions, and if those don’t work for them, they can still explore other options if they desire a more restrictive experience.