Two years after launching a crowdfunding campaign for a set of AI-enabled earbuds, iKKO Audio is preparing to launch a campaign for the company's first full-fledged smartphone… albeit an unusual one.
The iKKO Mind One is a phone with a 4.02 inch AMOLED display that's either square or something close to it and a 50MP Sony camera with optical image stabilization. The camera functions as both the rear and front camera thanks to a hinge that lets it flip around the top of the phone. The company has posted a preview page for a Kickstarter campaign set to launch before the end of July. Backers will be able to reserve a phone for $299 and up, and devices are expected to begin shipping "as early as October 2025."
Since the company hasn't provided detailed specs yet, we don't know what processor the phone is using, what the screen resolution is, or what kind of performance to expect. According to a recent reddit post, the phone will have 8GB of RAM, 256B of storage, and a 2,200 mAh battery.
We also know that it'll measures 86 x 72 x 8.9mm (3.39″ x 2.83″ x 0.35″), making the iKKO Mind One remarkable compact compared to most modern smartphones. And the company also plans to offer an optional "expansion case" that snaps onto the phone and adds a QWERTY keyboard, 3.5mm audio jack, and lanyard loop.
The iKKO Mind One will ship with Android 15 and something called iKKO AI OS, which provides a simple user interface optimized for the small, square (or square-like) screen. As the name suggests, there's also an emphasis on AI features including AI tools for taking notes, getting answers to questions, photo recognition, and the ability to create "a personalized podcast, generated just for you. News, insights, or your favorite topics."
There's also some confusing language about "built-in, free global internet for all AI tools" that's said to work without a SIM card or WiFi because "it automatically connects to local networks in 60+ countries." I have no idea what that means, but apparently it's included in all iKKO Mind One Pro version phones.
According to iKKO's website, all Kickstarter units will be Pro versions, but it sounds like there may be a non-Pro version that lacks the "free AI internet" features in the future?
Anyway, even if you don't care about the AI tools, the iKKO Mind One is still noteworthy thanks to its unusual design. Is a short, squat phone with a single camera attached to a 180 degree hinge a good idea? I'm skeptical. But it is at least nice to see a company trying something a little different.
One other thing to keep in mind though is that the Kickstarter price is said to include a 40% discount off the eventual retail price. So if you aren't willing to shell out $299 for an quicky and unproven smartphone from a company that specializes in audio products, then you may have to pay $499 or more to get your hands on one after crowdfunding ends.
via /r/smallphones
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