Commodore, a brand revived by YouTuber Christian Simpson in July 2025, has announced the Callback 8020 flip phone. The device is designed as a limited-functionality mobile phone aimed at reducing screen time and distractions. It runs on Sailfish OS and restricts access to social media apps and web browsers by default.
Device Overview
The Callback 8020 is a clamshell-style flip phone. Its external screen displays the date, time, and battery status. When opened, a 3.25-inch internal display with a resolution of 480x640 is revealed. While the screen supports touch input, this feature is disabled by default. The device features a T9 keyboard for text input.
Operating System and App Policy
The phone runs Sailfish OS, a Linux-based operating system developed by Jolla. It utilizes an allow-listed app store called Commostore. Installed applications are limited to essential services such as messaging (WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, WeChat), ride-sharing (Uber, Lyft), and music streaming (Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music). Social media apps, web browsers, and work-related applications (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) are not permitted for installation or sideloading. Users can request additions to the app store; Commodore reports that these requests are typically approved within 24 hours. APK sideloading is allowed only for apps that have been pre-approved.
Technical Specifications
- Processor: MediaTek Helio G81
- Memory and Storage: 4GB RAM, 64GB internal storage
- Camera: 48-megapixel rear camera (Sony sensor) for photography and QR code scanning; front-facing camera for video calls
- Audio: Headphone jack, audiophile-grade DAC supporting HD audio and lossless files; custom FiiO in-ear monitors (IEMs) included
- Connectivity: FM radio tuner
- Battery: Removable and replaceable
- Notifications: An LED light on the front of the device alerts users to incoming notifications
Pricing and Availability
Preorders are scheduled to begin on June 30 at 10:00 a.m. CEST. The base price is $499. A waitlist is available that offers a $50 discount. Models are available in several colors: white, silver, beige, starlight, and gold (Founder's Edition).
- Standard colors (beige, white, silver) are priced at $499
- Translucent blue model: $549.99
- Gold Founder's Edition: $640
The company states that shipping is planned by the end of 2026.
Company Background
Commodore was acquired by retro-gaming YouTuber Christian Simpson in July 2025. The company previously released a replica of the Commodore 64 personal computer in late 2024. A Commodore-branded phone named Pet was released in 2015.