The Minimal Phone, a crowdfunded project, recently began shipping. This unique device stands out not just for its successful crowdfunding campaign but for its innovative combination of features: a physical QWERTY keyboard and an e-ink display. It’s being marketed as the “First E-Ink QWERTY Phone,” offering a distinct approach to combating digital overload.
This isn’t simply another minimalist phone with a monochrome e-ink screen designed to curb phone addiction. The Minimal Phone takes it a step further by incorporating a tactile QWERTY keyboard, a feature reminiscent of the once-popular BlackBerry devices.
Side profile of The Minimal Phone in white.
While BlackBerry’s reign with QWERTY keyboards ended with the Key2 series in 2022, some niche brands like Unihertz have continued to offer physical keyboard phones. The Minimal Phone merges this retro appeal with the benefits of an e-ink screen to promote a less digitally-driven lifestyle. The 4.3-inch, 4:3 aspect ratio e-ink display evokes memories of LG’s unique Vu series.
The company acknowledges that “High-performance games or video-heavy apps may not provide the best user experience” on the e-ink display. However, basic gaming is possible, similar to experiences on other e-ink devices like the Boox Palma 2.
Running on Android 14.0, the Minimal Phone offers full smartphone functionality, including SIM-driven calling and data capabilities, compatible with major US carriers like Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T. However, the device’s core philosophy centers around “living more, scrolling less.”
Rear profile of The Minimal Phone in white.
Equipped with a 3,000mAh battery, the Minimal Phone boasts a multi-day battery life thanks to the energy-efficient e-ink display. Surprisingly, it also includes features often omitted in modern smartphones: a 3.5mm headphone jack, dual SIM card support, and microSD storage expansion.
Despite the monochrome screen, the phone features a 16-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front camera. A side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button adds to the convenience.
The Minimal Phone and its all-white design with a QWERTY keyboard.
Performance-wise, the Minimal Phone is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 octa-core processor and offers configurations with 6GB or 8GB of RAM paired with 128GB or 256GB of internal storage. A physical navigation bar with three buttons sits below the display.
Available in white, black, and a black-and-white dual-tone option, the Minimal Phone is now shipping globally. The initial pre-order price of $399 offered a $100 discount from the regular retail price.
