Here’s solution that’s affordable and gives you 90% of what you need.
On Ebay, search for “tracfone 1 year service”. Then scroll down to find offers for a one year service plan for $59.99 which includes a new phone. (NOTE: Tracfone is now owned by Verizon.)
Now here’s something a lot of folks don’t know. Just because these Android phones are connected to the internet, you don’t have to use the digital capabilities such as internet search that enable people to track you.
Instead, when you are (rarely) asked to sign onto Google, you refuse. The phone will not force you onto the internet. However you can still use texting, and have phone service with WiFi.
Now most people won’t go this route. However if you can wait to get home to your PC to surf the net, then you have a smartphone that costs no more than $5 a month.
Also you can keep your phone number from year to year. You must simply order your annual phone service before the previous year expires. (Have done this for a few years myself.)
The other caveat is this is NOT a flip phone, but a non-tracking way to use a smartphone at a price that can’t be beat.
Were you aware of this option?
No, I wasn’t aware of that.
Interesting that Verizon owns Tracfone.