FuriLabs has introduced FLX1s – a $550 Linux smartphone with support for Android applications
By ForGeeks
FuriLabs has announced the FLX1s — a $550 smartphone based on the Debian-based FuriOS distribution. The device supports running Android applications and virtualization via KVM, and is highlighted by hardware switches for privacy protection.
Characteristics of the FLX1s
The smartphone features a 6.7-inch screen with 1600×720 resolution and 90Hz refresh rate — a step back from the previous FLX1 model, which used a higher resolution display with 120Hz refresh rate.
The cameras include a 20MP main module, a 2MP macro lens and a 13MP front camera. The body is made of polycarbonate and glass, and weighs — 201 grams.
A MediaTek Dimensity 900 processor combined with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage is responsible for the performance. Storage can be expanded with microSD cards up to 1TB. The 5,000mAh battery is only charged via cable via USB-C 2.0. Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, dual-SIM and 5G are supported.
Focus on privacy and openness
The FLX1s main difference — hardware switches built into the frame of the case. These physically cut power to the microphone, cameras and modem, giving you complete control over your privacy.
The FLX1s hardware switches physically turn off the power to the microphone, cameras and modem, giving you complete control over your privacy.
The device comes with FuriOS, but users can install other OSes thanks to multiboot support. Support for Android apps makes the smartphone more flexible for everyday use.
The device comes with FuriOS, but users can install other OSes thanks to multi-boot support.
Differences from the first model
Compared to the FLX1, the new version is smaller and lighter, but loses some features: the resolution of the screen and the main camera sensor has been reduced, wireless charging support and the headphone jack are gone. Waterproofing is now limited to «splash-resistant» rather than IP68.
TheFLX1s isn’t aimed at the masses buying Android or iOS devices, but rather at enthusiasts who value openness, flexibility in OS installation, and maximum privacy.
