The World of Open-Source Mobile Phones

The World of Open-Source Mobile Phones

Open-source mobile phones have emerged as a compelling alternative to proprietary smartphones, offering users enhanced control, transparency, and customization. By leveraging open-source operating systems, these devices empower users and developers to modify and improve software, fostering a collaborative ecosystem.

History of Open-Source Mobile Phones

The journey of open-source mobile phones began in the early 2000s with initiatives like Openmoko, which aimed to create fully open-source hardware and software for mobile devices. Although the project faced challenges and was eventually discontinued, it laid the groundwork for future endeavors.

In 2009, Nokia introduced the N900, running Maemo, a Debian-based operating system. This device offered a glimpse into the potential of open-source mobile platforms. Around the same time, the Android operating system, based on the Linux kernel, gained prominence. While Android itself is open-source, many devices running Android incorporate proprietary components, leading to a distinction between open-source and proprietary implementations.

The past decade has seen a resurgence in open-source mobile initiatives, with several companies and communities developing devices that prioritize user freedom and transparency.

Notable Open-Source Mobile Phones

1. PinePhone
   • Release Date: 2020
   • Organization: Pine64
   • Operating System: Ships with Manjaro Linux and Plasma Mobile; supports various Linux-based operating systems
   • Features: Designed for user control, the PinePhone includes hardware kill switches for components like the modem, Wi-Fi, and cameras, enhancing privacy. Its modular design allows for easy repairs and upgrades.
2. Librem 5
   • Release Date: November 2020
   • Organization: Purism
   • Operating System: PureOS, a Linux distribution endorsed by the Free Software Foundation
   • Features: Emphasizing privacy and security, the Librem 5 offers hardware kill switches for the modem, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, and cameras/microphone. It is designed for user freedom, with easily replaceable components and a focus on free software.
3. Fairphone 4
   • Release Date: Fourth Quarter 2020
   • Organization: Fairphone
   • Operating System: Supports Android 13, /e/OS, CalyxOS, DivestOS, IodéOS, LineageOS, postmarketOS, Ubuntu Touch
   • Features: Fairphone focuses on ethical production and sustainability. The Fairphone 4 continues this tradition, offering modularity for easy repairs and support for various open-source operating systems.
4. PinePhone Pro
   • Release Date: December 2021
   • Organization: Pine64
   • Operating System: Sailfish OS (previously Manjaro Linux with KDE’s Plasma Mobile by default); supports over 20 other (mostly Linux) operating systems
   • Features: An enhanced version of the original PinePhone, the Pro model offers improved hardware specifications while maintaining the same commitment to openness and user control.
5. Volla Phone Series
   • Release Dates: Volla Phone X (2021), Volla Phone 22 (2022), Volla Phone X23 (May 2023)
   • Organization: Volla Systeme GmbH previously known as Hallo Welt Systeme UG
   • Operating System: Volla OS (based on Android Open Source Project), Ubuntu Touch, with a multiboot option
   • Features: The Volla Phone series offers a unique user experience with a focus on simplicity and privacy. The devices support multiple operating systems and provide a multiboot option for flexibility.

Discontinued Open-Source Mobile Phones

Several open-source mobile phones have been discontinued but have significantly contributed to the development of open-source mobile technology:

1. Openmoko Neo FreeRunner
   • Launched in 2008, it was one of the first attempts to create a fully open-source mobile phone, both in hardware and software. Despite its limited commercial success, it inspired future projects.
2. Nokia N900
   • Released in 2009, the N900 ran Maemo, offering a desktop-like experience on a mobile device. It was well-received by the open-source community for its hackability.
3. GeeksPhone Revolution
   • Introduced in 2014, this device could run both Android and Firefox OS, providing users with flexibility and control over their operating system.

The Future of Open-Source Mobile Phones

The landscape of open-source mobile phones continues to evolve, with new projects and devices emerging to meet the demand for privacy-focused and user-controlled technology. Companies like Huawei are developing their own operating systems, such as HarmonyOS Next, aiming to establish alternatives to dominant platforms like iOS and Android.

As the open-source mobile ecosystem grows, users can anticipate more options that prioritize transparency, security, and customization, reflecting a collective effort to redefine mobile technology’s future.