Punkt Launches Privacy-Focused Smartphone and Subscription Software to Challenge Big Tech
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Punkt, known for minimalist "dumb" phones, has launched its first smartphone called the MC02 which focuses on privacy and security.
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The MC02 runs a customized version of Android called Apostrophy OS, which is forked from GrapheneOS and strips out Google services.
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Apostrophy OS sells a subscription service for $20/month after the first free year which includes email, VPN, cloud storage, etc.
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The goal is to scale Apostrophy OS by selling to other phone makers rather than just Punkt, with the first additional brand signed up.
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The MC02 is targeted at consumers wanting more privacy and an alternative to Apple/Google dominance, though its high $750 price tag may limit appeal.