A speed bump for your mind: Commodores retro-inspired flip phone could be the perfect way to break your smartphone addiction

Date:
Tue, 16 Jun 2026 13:02:08 +0000

Description:
The Commodore Callback is a retro-flavored phone that sits between
smartphones and dumbphones.

FULL STORY ======================================================================Copy link Facebook X Whatsapp Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Threads Email Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Commodore has launched a new retro-themed flip phone The device blocks social media, web browsers, and
user tracking But it still runs Android apps and has a built-in camera The more smartphones pervade everyday life, the clearer it becomes that they can have some pretty deleterious effects, from phone addiction to cyberbullying and much more. If youre looking to break free from your smartphones grasp without losing access to some of its more beneficial features, Commodore reckons it has a retro-themed device for you.

That product is the Commodore Callback , and, as its name suggests, its a phone that heavily borrows from the past in its design. Youll see that in its flip-up clamshell design, inspired by classics like the Motorola Razr . It also comes in a range of old-school colors, including ProtoPET White, SX Silver, and BASIC Beige. Commodore says its historical inspiration goes more than just skin deep. The Callback does not work with social media apps and
has no touchscreen capabilities, supposedly thwarting the endless doomscrolling that afflicts so many people today. At the same time, it also lacks a web browser and work apps, giving you a chance to switch off and put your phone down. Latest Videos From Watch full video here:

The Commodore Callback is priced at $549.99, meaning its far from the
cheapest smartphone on the market. But if you want something to loosen the hold your phone has over you, its worth considering. A middle path forward (Image credit: Commodore) What I find interesting about the Commodore
Callback is its positioning: Commodore describes it as the not dumb
dumbphone. Instead of stripping features back to the bare minimum, its loaded with a smattering of helpful apps without any of the temptations that could cause you to waste hours endlessly scrolling. That makes it a speed bump for your mind, Commodore claims. You may like Cute name? Check. Plays cassettes? Yep. Aimed at the young 'digital detox' market? Oh yes I've spent hours researching the best phone for my child here are the safest options I've found, from iPhones to 'dumbphones' Nothing is proving that smartphones can still be chic, and I hope other Android manufacturers are paying attention

That could help make it more appealing to users who dislike the pervasiveness of social media but dont want a phone thats barely functional for anything other than simple calls and texts. It suggests that ditching the worst
aspects of the smartphone experience doesnt have to mean adopting an ascetic monk's lifestyle, and that could help broaden the devices appeal.

Indeed, Commodore has thrown in a few tasty extras that show the Callback has some enticing features of its own. That includes a 48MP rear camera, an audiophile grade DAC that supports HD audio, FM radio, an SID sound chip, and in-ear monitor (IEM) earphones. It also runs on Sailfish OS , a privacy-focused Linux-based operating system that works with 99% of Android apps, which could attract users sick of having their private data gobbled up by unscrupulous app developers. Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more. Contact me with news and offers from other Future brands Receive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

While the Commodore Callback might seem like a novelty gimmick especially given its retro-themed color choices and marketing materials it boasts a range of features that could prove to be particularly appealing to people
sick of the current state of the smartphone world. Its niche, sure, but it might provide a middle path forward between all-consuming smartphones and feature-stripped alternatives. Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as
a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your
feeds. Today's best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 deals Contract Deals Sim Free Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 36 months Unlimited mins Unlimited texts 1GB data 50 upfront 38.50 /mth View at Vodafone Ltd See all prices We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices



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Link to news story: https://www.techradar.com/phones/a-speed-bump-for-your-mind-commodores-retro-i nspired-flip-phone-could-be-the-perfect-way-to-break-your-smartphone-addiction


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