Posted on 06/18/2026 5:38:48 PM PDT by Libloather
They’re flipping off social media.
Nostalgic ’80s tech firm Commodore is hoping to combat tech addiction by releasing a retro flip phone that banishes social media apps.
Dubbed the Commodore Callback 8020, this vintage phone reboot is billed as a “retreat from Black Mirror technology” designed to “help you spend less time staring at a screen,” per the blog.
This throwback perhaps marks a fitting release for a nostalgic company that kickstarted the personal computer revolution of the 1980s and released the Commodore 64 — the best-selling PC of all time.
The Callback, which will be available later this year, facilitates digital detox by using “patent-pending technology” to block web browsers and social media at the “system level.” The catch is that the mobile methadone does offer internet connectivity, ostensibly offering the full functionality of a modern phone without the risk of screen addiction.
That being said, the Linux-based Sailfish OS operating system allows this Spartan device to be compatible with over “99 percent of Android Apps,” including WhatsApp, Maps and Spotify.
But don’t get any ideas about importing blacklisted apps. While Callback users are allowed to sideload platforms not available at the firm’s “Commostore,” the company draws the line at ones that require doomscrolling, Ars Technica reported.
(Excerpt) Read more at nypost.com ...
It’s not the real “Commodore” of 80’s fame. They went bankrupt in 1994. This new “Commodore”is an Italian firm marketing Linux or Android based laptops or tabs or even cooling systems for their high end laptops. If one wants retro Commodore like computers there is a small but active cohort of computer fans dedicated to bringing the old Commodore/Amiga tech , look and feel into the high performance world of today. They use software emulators with modern chips, or FPGA chips...They are updating different OS’s which can emulate the Commodore/Amiga look and feel.
The idea for the phone is good. The cost is idiotic. Just about any flip phone for 39 bucks at Walmart is low tech enough.
Most of the youngn’s nowadays would have trouble using those devices. They could come in handy with blackout conditions.
There are markets for old style vinyl records and turntables. I have seen some youngn’s amazed at how the grooves on a vinyl platter can produce sound!
I have the same phone, which I use strictly for calling (it was purchased to use for emergencies).
I would like a Tricorder (6’’ × 9’’) sized like a paper back book in size and a smaller flip phone that could use the same account.
It would be nice to be able to use both at the same time at a set premium — talk on the flip phone and navigate with the Tricorder .........
The long and short of it is for $300 you can have a brand new Commodore 64 in your favorite “flavor” running on modern chip sets. It’s pretty fekkin cool.
Texting is hopeless on flip phones. I would not buy one. For business, texting cannot be avoided.
BlackBerry Classic, please.
I still have my favorite flip Motorola V60s in a drawer. Loved that device. Beefy. Great signal.
Have a couple old flip LGs, too.
I have a smart phone that mostly sits at home. About the only time I take it out house is when I travel. Apple car play is nice. I don't have to futz around with phone to take calls or text messages. I can also watch my boarding pass disappear when I miss a connecting flight and a new connection is issued.
Batteries will probably last a lot longer with no background apps draining the phone
[[These are Amazing devices Necessary for modern]]
Huh? Never had a cell phone never needed one. Hopefully I can get through rest of life without one
Oh, I am well aware. Thanks, though.
I wish I could say the Same But...
You watch T.V.?
America On Line- AOL-was the first online service——late 1980’s ?
Here it is 2026 and 99.9% ‘merica has a
Smart Phone but IDIOCRACY Reigns
Prime example SPELL CZECH!
/$
youbetcha- I’m not agin all technology- i just don’t want to be tied to a cell phone like i see so many folks glued to their phones most of the day- I’d likely be just as glued- so i don’t wanna even get started- computers are bad enough taking up my time
The original Razor was the best phone ever.
I only have a flip. I don’t like talking on the damned thing. I hate all these people walking around, bent over with their faces crammed into the damned phones. All this stupid crap has caused problems for our kids. I well remember the party-line phones. We were never on one, but I had family that was. Sneaking around trying to listen to their neighbors’ conversations. I have a phone for contact with family and travel. Just for emergencies. I hate talking on the damned thing.
But can it be used to track you?
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