Simple Mobile Tools will soon be launching its very own phone. That’s based on recent reports centered around an apparent announcement from a Simple Mobile Tools developer under the handle “Tibbbi” via Reddit.
As of this writing, there aren’t any specifications to speak of and no clear branding has been identified either. The design language for the gadget hasn’t been discussed either. What is certain is that the focal point of the company isn’t going to be on delivering just another smartphone.
Instead, Simple Mobile Tools will put the bulk of its effort into the same category as its other apps. That’s as developers and purveyors of straightforward open-source alternative apps ranging from calendars, calculators, and dialers to photo galleries and note-taking apps. Meaning that the focal point will center on delivering privacy, security, and an open-source platform.
What do we actually know about a potential Android phone from Simple Mobile Tools?
Apps are taking top priority for the device, according to Tibbbi. Namely, that apps set to be pre-installed need to be open-source to suit the intended privacy-first approach. Simple Mobile Tools already offers a full suite of apps to fit the bill, in addition to those listed above. The developers already offer a music player, file manager, flashlight, contacts app, voice recorder, and more.
For Google Play Services, Tibbbi indicates that Simple Mobile Tools is looking to the MicroG project as a replacement. The Linux-based open-source component suite serves as an alternative to Google’s proprietary libraries. Including tools that provide open-source-based access to the Google Play Store. That’s as opposed to aiming to use a third-party app market.
However, Simple Mobile Tools doesn’t have an alternative for everything. At the very least, not for the time being. It’s currently working on a camera app to fill in some of the gaps. But Tibbbi’s reason for posting about the device appears to be to source other apps that aren’t in development just yet.
The Redditor is specifically asking for feedback related to the endeavor. Specifically, to fill the need for an email client and browser app for the upcoming Android handset. But it is not, according to Tibbbi, interested in any apps that might be considered bloatware.
2022-05-17 15:06:57