In an age when screens rule everything, the Sidephone SP-01 is a quiet protest. This small phone returns to fundamentals with a candybar appearance and a tactile keypad beneath a tiny touchscreen. It was designed by a small, simplicity-focused team and runs a bespoke version of Android that prioritizes calls, messages, and a few key apps. Pre-orders for US customers opened recently for $249, with deliveries expected later this year.
The body measures only 5.5 inches tall and weighs less than 5 ounces, allowing you to carry keys and a wallet in your pocket. A 2.8-inch 480×640 display sits atop the removable keypad, providing plenty of space for basic navigation. The screen accepts touch input for swipes and taps, but the primary draw is the circuitry beneath. The phone handles light tasks with ease thanks to its quad core ARM Cortex-A53 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 64GB of storage. An 1800mAh battery will last 8 days on calls and messages alone, but only half that time if you utilize other apps. A 12MP back camera delivers decent images in bright light, and a front-facing speaker makes clear conversations.
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The SP-01’s bottom half is modular, and the default numeric keypad snaps in with a magnetic clasp and may be replaced in seconds. This tile employs T9 predictive text for messaging; a single key press cycles through the characters on each number. You may remap any key in the settings menu and create shortcuts for apps like the camera and clock. The design promotes experimentation, transforming the phone into a tool tailored to your everyday needs. Sidephone offers inexpensive replacement parts, so if you drop a tile or break a key, it won’t be a long-term issue.
Among the accessories, the Sundial keypad stands out. This circular module costs $29 and feels like an old media player wheel, but it features 9 buttons under a smooth dome. The center key is play/pause, while the other keys are track skip and volume. The default corner keys launch fundamental operations, but full remapping lets you to modify them for podcasts or audiobooks.
A full QWERTY keyboard tile is still in the works, with delivery planned in March of next year. That one will have a more compact layout of letter keys, allowing you to type longer emails and notes much faster than the number pad alternative. Sidephone advises customers to make purchases based on what is now available, or else they will be disappointed if it is delayed. And they’re already considering releasing additional specialist tiles, such as those for gamers or note-takers, to broaden the spectrum over time.
Pre-orders will take place in phases, with the first round (1,000 units) reserved for those who signed up for the waitlist back in the fall. Each personalized link is only available for 48 hours to ensure that everyone who wants to participate has a fair chance, despite the huge demand. As a small thank you, Founders Edition buyers will receive a little bit extra in the box, as well as free shipping.
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