Light is Bringing Back the Flip Phone

In a sign that consumer technology has gone too far, for the first time in modern history we’re seeing a younger generation pushing back. In the early 20th century, all teenagers dreamt of owning a radio; in the latter half, a (landline) telephone, a TV, a Walkman, a cell phone. In the 2000s, an iDevice.But Gen Z is different, embracing objects they never got to grow up with. They prize vinyl records, CD players and even flip phones. Now Light, the Brooklyn-based manufacturer of stripped-down, distraction-reducing phones, is leaning into this trend with their forthcoming Flip. “As Apple, Google, and others race to build AI deeper into everything, despite growing backlash from consumers, Light is making the case for a radically different future,” the company writes. Time and time again, we’ve heard from people – especially the younger generations – who love flip phones, but the current options are poorly made, slow, unsupported, and often pre-installed with the same addictive apps built in. Light is taking everything that already works for tens of thousands of Light Phone users and is bringing that into a heavily-desired yet timeless tactile form factor of a flip phone. Light Flip combines a modern, custom-built operating system (LightOS), durable hardware, and the same ethos that has defined our company: humanely designed phones that help people stay connected without constantly competing for their attention. All while still bringing the best aspects of technology; a headphone Jack, USB-C, bluetooth, wifi and 5G connectivity.The Light Flip takes advantage of all of the existing LightOS tools, as well as predictive T9, voice-to-text and audio messaging. The phone does have apps, the useful ones: Alarm, Calculator, Calendar, Directory, Directions, Hotspot, Music, Notes/Voice Memo, Podcast, Weather, Authenticator (2FA) and Timer. And one throwback feature I appreciate is that they offer just nine speed dial slots, prioritizing curation over catch-all. Furthermore, the company says that the “form factor…prioritizes calling, a far superior way to catch up, make plans, or celebrate.” It also allows users “to experience the distinct satisfaction of hanging up.” Hear hear.The Flip is rolling out next year. It will be available unlocked for $299, or for $39 per month through Light’s service plan (with a two-year contract).