LIGHT PHONE 3 / four takeaways from the new demo

[@AmbientClassical]

This phone seems so... human-friendly.

[@AndrewFolts]

Put perfectly. They should make that a tag line or bullet item in the spec list, ha. It's true that most phones feel like the opposite.

[@ceasarsalad2055]

Can't tell if this is a joke about the humane ai pin or you're genuinely saying it's human-friendly

[@AmbientClassical]

​@@ceasarsalad2055Oh did AI Pin claim that? I've heard the opposite about them. 😂

[@foryoutube7504]

The screen should be plastic, instead of glass. It's bound to break/crack, making it equivalent to a smartphone....

[@AndrewFolts]

@@foryoutube7504 You can either get a case or just be careful. For example, I own a $1,200 condenser mic for filmmaking and it could likely break if I dropped it, but I never have. I just handle it with care.

[@zekesaliga2510]

Just pre ordered a second one before the price gets too high in hopes my wife will join me

[@AndrewFolts]

That's really nice of you, Zeke! I think the faster OLED screen and camera will be appealing to a lot of people who were put off by the LP2. Best wishes to you both!

[@bravestarr19]

Even more excited about this phone after seeing this demo. I bought it day 1. This phone just looks SLICK and its going to be 100 times better than the LP2 which I also enjoy using but this just looks so much better. January seems so far away! I was on the fence between the LP3 and the Mudita Kompakt but this video convinced me I am getting the LP3

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, the LP3 like a whole new level. It's absolutely rough waiting, but I'm kind of glad to have something to look forward to the next few months, since winter can be a bummer. The Kompakt does seem cool and a good compromise for anyone who wants e ink but needs a camera.

[@timschick6708]

Andrew! I hope you’re well. Thanks for another great video! Enjoying them each night as I rock our newborn to sleep. This video finally got my wife interested in LP3, you’re the man! Also, loving the van build projects! Inspiring!

[@AndrewFolts]

Spreading the LP bug, love it! Congrats on the kiddo. I see so many parents engaging with their phones, rather than their kids, so mad props to you both for getting interested in ways to stay present with something more minimal. (:

[@miltondiaz772]

Sir did not waste any time to get this video out!

[@AndrewFolts]

No sir! Been hungry for some Light news. (:

[@BESTOFTHEABOVE]

I really hope Spotify will one day be integrated! That's really the only thing I'd miss from my Samsung

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's unlikely, unfortunately. As I understand it, Spotify doesn't currently support third party streaming, and there's nothing LP can do until that policy changes. What I do is use a tool called Note Burner to download my Spotify playlists and then upload them to the LP dashboard. I pay for Premium and mostly listen on my Mac, so I'm ok with it, ethically.

[@errael]

Going to keep my iphone as an ipod 😅 but tbh, I will use the podcast functionality on the LP3 much more anyway

[@roberttaylor4275]

@@AndrewFoltsahhh so you can bring some music from Spotify. This makes a choice a lot easier for me

[@emumu2]

Should at least connect to some communication tools such as the Skype, Line, Telegram… because people are using these apps to make calls these days!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, WhatsApp has been the #1 request for a while and it was in their user survey, so possibly it could get implemented in the future.

[@Campos2011]

It would be cool if the usb-c charge port could also output sound for headphones. Hopefully. I hope there is a way to have podcast downloads from Spotify or music lists, but highly doubt that. It’s a long wait till January but I’m glad I preordered at the $399.

[@AndrewFolts]

I'm pretty sure it will, that's usually how USB-C works on phones. Unfortunately, Light has no control over Spotify and Spotify has shown zero interest in opening up the app for API access to play or download songs, but you can use a tool called NoteBurner to download your Spotify playlists.

[@NeonDisciple]

I used huff duffer to put anything I wanted to listen to in an RSS feed that you can stream from the podcasts part of the light phone

[@AndrewFolts]

@@NeonDisciple Cool! Presumedly you still have to upload the MP3's, though? Does it end up saving you any time vs just uploading them to the Light Phone dashboard?

[@NeonDisciple]

@@AndrewFolts you know I don't remember. I shelved my light phone a while ago. Though this video is going to make me see if I can dig it up again when I get home

[@MattTheriot]

Wait so the Lightphone III is not an e-ink display? That's a shame, I like the design otherwise but I really want a non-emitive display.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, that's the sacrifice of adding a camera. I've tried e ink devices with cameras and it's hard to see what you're getting, being grayscale and having so much ghosting obscuring things from constant motion. Maybe they'll make an e ink version eventually, though.

[@turkeyleg72]

I would love if the phone had a T9 keyboard option, i even used the T9 to type this comment on my smart phone

[@DDosAndDonts]

do u know if this phone is hackable? i'd love to install roms on it, i love the form factor, but idc about the concept itself

[@AndrewFolts]

It runs on Android, so potentially. I'd email support and ask. Some people did hack the LP2.

[@myqaveli]

wish we could get waze on it as well a music streaming app of sorts

[@AndrewFolts]

Whatever app they use for the Directions tool works well enough for me. Should be even better with the faster/larger screen on the LP3. As for music, there's nothing Light can do about the situation. Spotify won't allow third-party streaming access.

[@dangansonaplays]

My biggest concern is, is that I did do the $399 Pre-Order, and although i'm excited I just.. I really don't think it'll be ready for January, idk why but I am absolutely expecting a delay.

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, that's always the risk of preordering, but regardless of ship date, people who preordered first will still get their LP3 earlier, and you're saving hundreds of dollars off the retail price, which is def worth the wait. Imagine having to buy the LP3 at $799...yeesh! In terms of delays, idk, I feel like they'll get it out on schedule. They already have a functional prototype with multiple videos and in-depth production blog posts, which is a lot more than most startup companies have to show at the same point. Techless, for example, has been dead silent for three months on the Wise Phone 2, other than this weird cringe "photoshoot" video, which tells people nothing about the state of development. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qWa4pZ9tqNWkfas It was supposed to come out this summer, but now it's delayed to November..

[@lilyliciousss]

im happy with my LP2! don't think i'd switch to this bc it feels less minimal. plus the e-ink is what has me sold ; its laggy but it teaches me patience lmao

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, if you don't need a camera, then the LP2 is actually better in some ways. Hopefully they'll make a LP3E (e ink) version at some point.

[@submersedlalo5631]

This and a mighty 3 would give me 90% of what I need without having to carry a smart phone. Really wanting to buy one of these but currently don’t have a phone carrier that supports it. I would be willing to switch to get this phone though.

[@AndrewFolts]

Have you tried Mighty? I was def interested at one point, but the reviews say it's super glitchy and sounds low quality. Really hope Spotify will add support for use cases like the LP3. I settled for downloading a Spotify playlist with the NoteBurner app and uploaded to my LP2 via the online dashboard, which is basically what Mighty does.

[@jeremymullan9230]

Would your phone be able to connect to my CarPlay and provide maps or allow me to access my music?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Jeremy, not sure about the GPS, but you could ask customer service. It does have voice navigation. For music, yes, you can use Bluetooth to play your LP MP3 files thru the car's dashboard.

[@Hearthborn13]

I still think the fonts are bit bigger on the overall screen size. But i guess there will be options to reduce the size of the fonts.

[@AndrewFolts]

Font size adjustment would be nice, yea. That's the most important UI preference for a lot of people.

[@jakekaufmann4028]

Hey Andrew, im thinking about pre ordering the lightphone 3 this week. Anything to keep in mind in terms of transitioning from an iPhone? Mostly just things like thinking ahead for travel, sporting/music events (since tickets are mostly on phones now), any banking/payment items? Just anything to keep in mind before switching to a light phone. Any pointers would be appreciated:)

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Jake, props on taking the leap! The LP3 will be less of a culture shock than the LP2 with the camera and LED screen. You could presumedly send a pic of the concert ticket QR code to your phone, since it'll have a gallery. Same for airline QR code tickets. For banking I just log in on my Mac, but for that and internet stuff in general you can also tether a tablet/laptop to the LP3 via Hotspot, which is nice for extra functionality without the distraction of a smartphone that can fit in your pocket.

[@jakekaufmann4028]

@@AndrewFolts That all makes sense! Thank you!

[@forensic8385]

​@@jakekaufmann4028 Maps is a big one. I mean, you're gonna take a big hit on functionality, but ultimately if you cant control the addictive apps of having an iphone, the LP3 is a good choice. it is a really good choice for a child's first phone, be it an emergency phone or full time from ages 12-18

[@Layla_r0se]

Untuk forex, kalau modal besar sikit, tidak perlu tunggu lama. Yg penting konsisten. Sejam dua waktu awal malam dah cukup.

[@bethcummings9493]

hey there!! love my light phone ii .. i'm assuming and hoping for the new light phone iii that the texted photos and links get directly forwarded to email also .. thoughts?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Beth, yep, the LP3 will have the same features as the LP2, plus the camera and other extra functionality. They may even support seeing texted photos on the phone, we'll see.

[@bethcummings9493]

@@AndrewFolts i'm fine either way ;) i'm really excited about the new camera bc i have missed that one feature for major life events ... like my sons recent graduation and my daughters first day of school ;) i'm always saying quite sillily and annoyingly to my friends " heyyyy, forward that picture to me please ?!" lol

[@EmperorGilps]

I've said it before and I've said it again. That speaker grill will be a magnet for dust and grime. It will look awful in about a week. I had the first Razer gaming phone and it looked awful after a few weeks and you have to try and clean it with a tooth pick in each hole.

[@AndrewFolts]

How about a few bursts of compressed air? Or a fine bristle brush? Those might work better. Hopefully it won't be a big deal, but we'll see.

[@TangerineGi]

Regarding the phone's manufacturing, I personally don't feel very reassured because the phone is made by Foxconn in China. Foxconn is known to be one of the largest electronics manufacturers and also works for Apple, for example. The company has faced scandals over the terrible working conditions imposed on workers and a series of suicides among its employees (there's even a Wikipedia page dedicated to this). I don't know if anything has changed in recent years, but personally, I don't find it very reassuring.

[@AndrewFolts]

That's the hard thing about modern consumerism...there's no way to personally verify the conditions of the places that are making products, especially in a country like China, which clamps down hard on any negative publicity. Seeing photos of the workplace is something, at least, because most brands don't even do that. I could totally see the LP team visiting the factory and coming away thinking it was reasonable fair/ethical, because it would be so easy for the company to cover up bad practices. I doubt any large scale factory is going to have great working conditions. People already complained about the LP preorder being $399. Imagine if they manufactured it in some A+ high-wage factory in the USA, it would cost like $1,200. No one would pay that. Idk what the solution is.

[@aidans.9435]

1:25 showing the sweat shop is crazy

[@AndrewFolts]

What about it seems like a sweatshop to you?

[@stuck_in_sky]

So sad, L3 is the only one supported in Canada, which means even the 499 pre order price ends up being 650-700$cad. I've followed their products for years but just found out about the preorder yesterday! I might just have to go for it anyways.... We'll see

[@AndrewFolts]

Ah shoot, that's why I posted early. I was hoping to let everyone know before the price went up. You can always preorder and then sell it on eBay for most or all of what you paid if it doesn't work out the way you hope.

[@hiesteq3220]

Same here! Found out about it a few days ago. Will cost the same for shipping to Norway as well. Still a price Im willing to pay, so I preordered it :) Nothing else has worked for me yet. I think this is it.

[@noseboop4354]

Be careful, currently the only supported carriers in Canada are Telus and Koodo.

[@stuck_in_sky]

@@noseboop4354 good point! Might be worth reaching out to them first and obviously comparing plans

[@littlebumgorf]

hey andrew, i found your channel after getting so tired of wasting time on my iphone scrolling reddit and youtube. i'm not sure whether or not the light phone is just a product that i'm overfocused on or fell for the marketing for, or if i just lack the discipline to keep the things i have, and use my partner to hide the screen time password from me. i'm also curious about your thoughts on the OLED since you said in your 2 year review that e-ink is really important for you. also, other than affiliate links, did light phone sponsor you?

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey there, so in terms of discipline, I know exactly what you mean. When I bought the LP2 I thought: "Can't I just stick to limits on my iPhone?" But then I realized I'd been trying to do that for like ten years and it was just too easy to ignore any limits I set up. I also realized that even if I was 100% disciplined, resisting my phone still took a lot of energy, so it was like...why waste all that energy on something I don't even enjoy using when I could be drawing or making videos or hanging out with people? In terms of of e ink vs OLED, yea I do prefer the LP2's screen and if speed or a camera aren't necessary for you, then e ink can be super relaxing. If you like the LP3 better but worry about OLED, it's not too big a deal, because without social media or the internet, how much will your really use the LP3 anyways? Most days I forget the LP2 even exists. Finally, Light Phone doesn't sponsor me,. In fact, as with any affiliate program, if someone returns a purchase, I make zero dollars, so there's no incentive to pretend their phones are any better/different than they are. Cheers!

[@Qiab0301]

I am wondering if their OS can be set up with a white background and black text.

[@AndrewFolts]

Probably, since the original Light Phone 2 did.

[@jdcarling]

if this was E-ink, I would buy but ill stick with my LP2 for now. I got it because it was slow not fast.

[@AndrewFolts]

Funny enough, e ink has improved to the point that the LP3 would be just as fast, either way. Although the frame rate would still be lower. I'm hoping they eventually produce an LP3E (e ink). That would be rad!

[@forensic8385]

This is surprising. I found the e-ink screen on the LP2 to be really difficult to deal with. so slow

[@alexwr]

I don't care how minimalist a phone is, if it's got those features and they're charging more that £200 for it, it isn’t worth it.

[@AndrewFolts]

Just comes down to what you want. For me, a smartphone with a bunch of annoying/distracting extras would be worth less, while the LP2/3 have exactly what I need and no more, while also being more unique and well-designed than a clunky flip phone. If design isn't important to you, then a basic feature phone will work great and save you money.

[@forensic8385]

I think understanding cellphone addition would go a long way for you to understand why someone would need and pay more for a LP3

[@mongopoe5099]

I feel better about it knowing that I’ll be selling my iPhone.

[@JuanR20421]

just the fact it has usbc makes me more interested in buying

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's too bad they didn't go for USB-C with the LP2, but should be really cool to be able to plug in a high quality mic tot the LP3 or other USB tools.

[@tokhote]

There’s no brightness slider…?

[@AndrewFolts]

They've mentioned using the wheel for brightness adjustment.

[@haraldlasshofer214]

Great video! Can I listen to my amazon ebooks on it? Does it support whatsapp?

[@AndrewFolts]

You can upload MP3's through the dashboard, which automatically syncs to the LP, so yes, assuming you have access to download the MP3's from Amazon. They've been talking about adding WhatsApp support, so maybe in the future.

[@ConradAquilina]

@@AndrewFolts Wouldn't WhatsApp break the no-data-selling aspect of the Lightphone company ethos? I doubt you can just use the messaging aspect of WhatsApp while opting out of all the other spying aspects. I would think that modern apps check for both software and hardware of their host devices. Missing on any feature from h/ware and s/ware would, probably, prohibit installation. Owning companies of such apps, which push other apps known for scrolling, addicting behaviours, are intrinsically opposed to devices like the Lightphone, as they cannot make money off of it.

[@02_Mud_Gang]

Does this phone have Spotify, Bluetooth, messages, and good storage?

[@AndrewFolts]

No Spotify (although they support uploading MP3's), but both the LP 2&3 have Bluetooth, texting, Podcasts, and the 3 has 128 GB of storage.

[@02_Mud_Gang]

@@AndrewFolts thank you for the response. They definitely should support Spotify.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@02_Mud_Gang They can't, unfortunately. It's up to Spotify to provide third-party access for streaming, and they don't, as of yet.

[@foryoutube7504]

Does it come with maps?

[@AndrewFolts]

Yep, there's a Directions tool on the LP2 and it'll be even better on the LP3 with the faster screen.

[@photovidshooter]

I wonder the demographics of people stay away from social vs people wanting relief from harmful effects on screen time of device nowadays. Im part of the people who wants minimalist in a sense of having a colored eink with a decent screen resolution with a physical screensize of an iphone mini under 5" bar phone. Somehow it will have little to no eye strain when using the device while still being connected and updated. LP3 is not for me on my use case and cannot justify its price. For sure other people appreciate it and applicable on their needs. Cheers!

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, it's too bad they didn't do a "Light Phone 3E" (e ink) version as well as the OLED. I love my LP2's screen. Obviously e ink wouldn't be great with a camera, but most people would be alright, I feel like.

[@photovidshooter]

Im sports photographer and i dont mind having an eink phone with mideocore camera on it. My eyes are too tired of screentime during photo editing whenever i have sports events. For sure, different people, different needs from a phone. But for now, Im happy to switch from regular smartphone to an eink (colored/bnw) smartphone with decent software upgrades and reliable build quality.

[@Goob787]

once we get a mp3 integration option id be in.

[@Goob787]

nvm i just saw it did, im pre ordering

[@AndrewFolts]

That's the best feeling when you need a feature, think it doesn't exist, then realize it does. Stroked for the LP3!

[@TunedByJ]

Im only getting this phone for tje screen and industrial design alone

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, feel ya. Big fan of industrial design too!

[@michaeltrammell7528]

How are you supposed to share your photos? SMS doesn’t seem logical 😊

[@AndrewFolts]

Probably they'll add a Gallery tool on the online dashboard where you'll be able to download your photos and videos to send or store. Maybe via USB-C too.

[@Rfpepe7295]

I do not want to be Mr.Negative, but..... $799??? Really?... Also, it looks like they are inching to become a Smartphone. The entire premise of the Light Phone was that it would be used as little as possible, so why keep adding features allowing you to use it MORE? I think their market research shows them that they will make more money doing it this way. I don't fault them for trying to make money, but they seem to be going in the opposite direction of their initial mission statement.

[@AndrewFolts]

The price isn't $799, pre-orders started at $399, and now they're $499. The only features the LP3 has added are a camera and OLED display, which is a necessary tradeoff for having a camera. There's still no social media, internet, apps, or anything else that could be potentially distracting, aside from texting, which was already a feature of the LP2. Speaking from experience, the LP2 with its slow e ink screen was near impossible to get people to adopt. After three years, not a single friend or family member I showed the LP2 to ever ended up buying one, because it was just to extreme a change for them to handle. So, I think the LP3 will be an important stepping stone that will allow a much broader range of people to start their minimalist journey, and maybe transition to the LP2 after some time.

[@gilldoyle3295]

Id love this but how do i listen to youtube? Thats really the only app i need !!

[@AndrewFolts]

What you could do is use one of those free KZbin to MP3 sites, then simply upload them to the Music tool thru the Light Phone website/dashboard. Not as convenient, but I see that as a plus, because KZbin can be super addictive (speaking from XP, ha).

[@gilldoyle3295]

@@AndrewFolts ok so it is possible.. I don't watch it much I tend to listen to stuff especially power of the mind etc 😍

[@MaisonPulaski]

@@gilldoyle3295 do the things you are listening to have a podcast? Because I do see that there is a Podcast tool on the LP3. Just throwing that out there as an idea. I am not currently a LP user, but did just place a preorder.

[@ComsiCaterpillar]

sucks they nixxed the e-ink ... I don't really want an permanently backlit screen ... I'd rather have it like the Boox

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, my hope is that they'll come out with a LP3E (e ink) version eventually. I think they wanted a regular screen option, because it's super hard to get anyone to adopt e ink coming straight from a smartphone. Not one of my friends and family who I've showed my LP2 to ever bought one. It just seems to extreme to them.

[@pungusattah]

I so want to migrate but no Spotify. Music is my regulator and without it I'm struggling to move over

[@AndrewFolts]

Hey Ubaka, what I do is use an app called NoteBurner where you can download a playlist from Spotify. I then upload the MP3's to the LP's music tool on the dashboard. It's breaking the rules somewhat, but I pay for a Premium subscription, which allows for offline downloading, and I do most of my listening on the desktop app anyways. Not a perfect solution, but it works well enough for me.

[@pungusattah]

@@AndrewFolts Thanks for the info Andrew. Another question if I may, do you drive? I travel a bit for work so Satnav like Waze and Google maps is important. I'm guessing there's no work around?

[@AndrewFolts]

@@pungusattah I do, I just bought Ford Transit for van life this year. The Light Phone Directions app is only useful in text mode currently, since e ink is so slow, but with the new LP3 OLED screen, it should work just as well as any maps app. If you 100% need a specific app, you could carry another device, like a tablet, and use the Light Phone's hotspot for internet.

[@johnj1237]

Just preordered 😁😁😁

[@AndrewFolts]

Nice!! Will do my best to keep us all motivated with LP3 news along the way as we wait. Cheers, John!

[@DaAznSuperman]

Does it have eSIM?

[@AndrewFolts]

No, it uses a physical sim card.

[@Mdogbrown]

RCS compatibility??

[@AndrewFolts]

Not sure, but I emailed support and I'll let you know what they say. Currently, links and media can be forwarded to your email, but don't show up on the phone. They do say that WhatsApp is a possibility in the future.

[@Mdogbrown]

@@AndrewFolts Can you take songs from Spotify if you have premium and put them on phone through dashboard? Reason I ask, is I have Apple Music and used that with my old lightphone 2. If Spotify is possible, I’ll drop Apple ecosystem for this and use a Garmin instead of Apple Watch for a more minimal setup without distractions. What are the current music subscriptions that are compatible with light?

[@AndrewFolts]

@@Mdogbrown I use an app called Note Burner to download my Spotify playlist. If you want multiple playlists or albums you can use file naming tools to add that info so it can be searched for on the LP. It's probably not legal, but I pay for a Spotify subscription and do most of my listening on the desktop app anyways, so I'm ok with it.

[@Mdogbrown]

@@AndrewFolts Right on! Thanks!!!!

[@AwesomenessJourney]

How on earth is a phone with so few specs, so expensive? I can buy 4x Nokia 3210 phones for this price and they have longer battery life and more features

[@AndrewFolts]

If you don't care about design, then a Nokia is a great option. I like how the LP2 and LP3 look and function and that they only have the essentials with no extra junk. It's important for me to get a sense of joy from the things I own, like someone took the time and care to make a unique/interesting product.

[@forensic8385]

I think understanding cellphone addition would go a long way for you to understand why someone would need and pay more for a LP3

[@angelsalgado5714]

Hey Andrew why haven’t you made the Full Barefoot 🦶🏼 videos.

[@AndrewFolts]

I've been thinking of doing a "review" of full barefoot (like it was a shoe), ha. I just haven't had time, what with working on my van build and catching up on the other reviews I promised to finish. I'll get there!

[@angelsalgado5714]

@@AndrewFolts oh ok it’s ok

[@makichannels1073]

It's expensive 😂 I would just enjoy my current phone. There are apps that will make it a dumb phone, limiting it to only the necessary apps I use.

[@AndrewFolts]

Personally, I tried for years to stick with time limits and app blockers, etc, but it was just too easy to undo any restrictions I put in place. That's what I love about the LP, it just removes the problem completely, forever. But if you can get limits to work consistently, then more power to ya!

[@Nzambi237]

No headphone jack, that's a dealbreaker for me

[@AndrewFolts]

Oh you're right, I didn't even notice that! Easy fix, though. Just get a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter and leave it on the end of your your headphones. amzn.to/4dCrpBl You can also get an audio/power splitter if you plan on listening while charging. amzn.to/3yrtdyh

[@vishnuharikumar117]

Add intragrated chat gpt too❤

[@AndrewFolts]

ChatGPT is super useful, but can also be super distracting, so I'd personally rather they didn't. Plus, Light Phone is all about privacy and ChatGPT is owned by Microsoft, so you know they're selling all our data constantly.

[@jakeharms1386]

If it was open source they’d have my money yesterday

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, I really wish there was support for adding your own apps. I've wanted a simple To-Do app for years, but their team is small and doesn't have the bandwidth. Opening the LP up for customization (with the understanding that it could break things) would be a great option.

[@myoniepayton3929]

As of 2024 fall its up at $499. I really want one but the way this economy is set up I’ll have to save 3 checks to get it w/out financial damage.

[@AndrewFolts]

There's always the option of getting a $20 flip phone. Like, no, won't have as nice a design and it'll lack some of the more advanced features (podcasts, GPS, high quality camera, etc), but it could still be a good first step if you want to get rid of your smartphone. Or you could consider the LP2 if you don't need a camera or color screen.

[@xsivnos5597]

Hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha $799 for this phone - this is the first time in my life I feel like supporting sweat shops

[@AndrewFolts]

That's why most people pre-ordered for $399 when the LP3 launched. Probably the final price will be more like $600 and maybe lower, depending on how much revenue they get to reinvest in a larger production run. This is simply how much it costs to manufacture a niche product.

[@xsivnos5597]

@@AndrewFolts I hear what you’re saying but they set their own niche market at that price. Anyway, as always the value of it will be what people are willing to pay

[@somethingpurpul]

I was gonna support this company but whats the point at 700$ for a stripped down phone...

[@AndrewFolts]

The initial pre-order price was $399. Now it's $499. So there's still plenty of time before it hits the retail level.

[@forensic8385]

I think understanding cellphone addition would go a long way for you to understand why someone would need and pay more for a LP3

[@mlogsdon1740]

100% this thing is going to be an app running on top of android just like the rabbit

[@AndrewFolts]

The LP2 also ran on top of Android. It would be pointless and financially suicidal to write a hole operating system from scratch, ha.

[@mlogsdon1740]

@@AndrewFolts It's also a security issue. the rabbit uses a MediaTek MT6765V which suffers from a huge CVE. I wish I could get my hands on one of these light phones so I could connect to it via UART and run some exploits on it.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@mlogsdon1740 There were never any security issues with the LP2, as far as I know. No news stories and not even any anecdotal comments of people complaining. Maybe it's because Light takes privacy seriously, or maybe it's just because so few people own Light Phone's that it's not worth a hacker's time to hack.

[@IAmSarlosCantana]

I want to be upset about that price but I am also willing to pay a higher price if it means the employees are payed and treated better than ... everywhere else (not saying much considering all batteries are mined using slaves in the Congo)

[@AndrewFolts]

Yea, no modern tech manufacturing is 100% ethical, sadly, but it's reassuring to see the people and place that are making the LP3, at least, rather than some shadow factory.

[@sterkriger2572]

Seems to be too expensive for what it is.

[@AndrewFolts]

Just depends on what you need/want. The internet and social media are super distracting to me but I also didn't want a junky flip phone. So $299 felt like a small price to get my life back and still have a device that I enjoyed using, especially the e ink screen, which no other phones had. The LP3 has a unique design with a high quality camera, while still being distraction-free. Either those features matter to your or they don't.

[@sterkriger2572]

@@AndrewFoltswait did you pay just $299? Because I’m seeing this phone for $799 and discounted for $499. For $299 it seems fair. The full price feels almost predatory

[@AndrewFolts]

@@sterkriger2572 I paid $350 for my LP2 and the LP3 preorder price started at $399. It's up to $499 now. They say the final retail price will be $799 in 2025, but I doubt it'll be that expensive.

[@YanniEhm]

A true Light Phone wouldn't need a dongle for playing music. The best earphones and headphones are still wired, and most likely will always be. I think the knob is also gimmicky, and is unnecessary on a simple phone with a touch screen, and buttons. I would have traded that knob for an Audio Jack, that would have made it perfect. Sadly, as much as I love the Light Phone, meaning the design, look, and probably feel, I will not purchase one. No Audio Jack, and $799 means, I'm out.

[@AndrewFolts]

I'm fine with USB-C only. I just plug an adapter on the end of my wired headphones. Problem solved. As for the scroll wheel, it does seem odd, but I'm sure Light has their reasons, so it'll be interesting to see what it ends up being used for.

[@YanniEhm]

@@AndrewFolts I've had issues with dongles. I'm using a Samsung currently, and I'm on my 5th dongle in 1 1/2 years. I would just prefer to not need on. I strongly dislike Apple because they started this, and then the other monkeys followed. Only Xperia brought the jack, back. Lately I've been considering getting a 4, to 4.7 inch Windows phone. Social media no longer works on them, their camera is still decent, and for 2024, they are pretty dumb. LOL

[@AndrewFolts]

@@YanniEhm I have an Apple brand 3.5mm to USB-C adapter that I bought five years ago and haven't ever had any issues. Removing the j3.5mm ack frees up space for other hardware, and I rarely need to listen to music while charging, so I think it's a smart design choice overall. If you need to do both, you can just get a splitter.

[@aahilalwani5019]

$399? For LESS? If you want a dumb phone why not get a kaiOS phone like nokia or lava? Those are like 50 bucks if not less

[@AndrewFolts]

If design and UI are not important to you, then a burner phone would be a great option. I personally like the LP2/3, because they're unique, minimal, and intuitive to use. It brings me joy to own the LP2 versus a feature phone, which would feel clunky. I've found the Podcasts, Directions, and Directory tools, as well as music, which you can sync with the dashboard, to be dealbreakers to vs Nokia, etc.

[@cristalypollo]

su voz es como para leer historias de reddit

[@cristalypollo]

y me recuerda al canal dosis diara de Internet en inglés

[@AndrewFolts]

Ha, yea, people have told me I sound like that Daily Dose guy. (:

[@renzokukenleneyoyo522]

I'd take e-ink any day... sluggish is easily fixed by typing less frantically.

[@AndrewFolts]

Definitely, it also discourages unnecessary convos, which I like as a minimalist and introvert, ha! I'd love it if they made a Light Phone 3 e ink edition, even if the camera experience would be not great.

[@renzokukenleneyoyo522]

@@AndrewFolts agreed. I've shied away from QR codes and taking pictures of stuff. While not bulletproof I ask for a physical menu and live life through my senses... some minor nuisances may arise from a camera that is less than optimal but hey... I use the LP2 after all

[@TheBorathon]

People complaining about an 800$ price tag need to simmer down. You're paying for a product and you're paying for it once, let alone it's a small team. Apple and Samsung sell hundreds of thousands of devices annually for over $1000 a piece. You only have to buy this once and it's constantly supported and you can reach out for real technical support from someone on the team. They provide free updates and support for years after you purchase it. Let alone, you're no longer paying for a service plan that's almost $100 a month for data. Now, if you shop around, can spend $15 a month for your phone plan. But keep crying how you can't afford a one time payment of $800 to get control of your life again.

[@AndrewFolts]

"get control of your life again." Well put! I sometimes wonder if this is the addiction talking for most people. Like, maybe price is just a proxy for being afraid to let go of a smartphone. Def felt that anxiety when I switched back in 2021.

[@maxnits9556]

Say, what was the price? $799?! I've got a Nokia 1100 to sell you...

[@AndrewFolts]

The price started at $399 and now it's $499. if you just want a basic phone and design doesn't matter to you, then, yea, a Nokia's a great option. I went with the LP2 originally, because it felt unique and interesting and the minimal UI was very relaxing compared to cheaper feature phones, which always feel clunky.

[@gymratnoah2259]

Should cost under 150..

[@AndrewFolts]

At $150, Light Phone wouldn't be able to stay in business. Shipping, customer service, marketing, office space rent, employee salaries, not to mention probably $100K+ of R&D cost for designing and testing a unique, high-quality product. For consumers (you and I) it comes down to value-does the LP3 solve a big enough problem to justify the price? Back in 2021 I was losing 2-4 hours per day on phone addiction, but I design is important to me, so I didn't want to go with a clunky flip-phone. Therefore, $350 for the Light Phone 2 was worth it, because my phone time instantly went down to 5 minutes per day, which, even at minimum wage ($15/hr), saved me $450 of time the first month. It just comes down to what you want and need.

[@maxnits9556]

Addiction is not a device problem but a mindset one. It'll manifest itself some other way if not addressing the root cause.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@maxnits9556 Yes and no. Having a root problem will make you more susceptible to developing a gambling addiction, but a casino can still have a toxic effect on someone with no other issues in life, considering the flashing lights, screens, obnoxious sounds, and depressed people all around. Smartphones are no different. Even with the ideal mindset, you're just making the best of a toxic device. With the Light Phone, it's like walking into a library. Not only is it not toxic, but it's relaxing, and that's the vibe I want for my life, when possible.

[@maxnits9556]

@@AndrewFolts Actually I almost agree with you there. I just think that it's important to keep developing a strong mindset and gain wisdom no matter the circumstances. It's like with Hollywood actors - there are some that obtain cocaine and alcohol habits while other famous actors record music albums, win motorsport cups and become philanthropists. Ultimately, it's your choice.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@maxnits9556 Definitely! I feel like success in life is a dance between environment design and metal toughness. The people who do both go far.

[@yamphoto]

I wonder if this lightphone supports whatsapp support ?

[@AndrewFolts]

That's the #1 user request and they've been talking about it, so I could see it potentially being implemented in 2025 sometime.

[@yamphoto]

If not WhatsApp just signal should be the bare minimum since it’s open source?

[@shantanu_pandit_]

How do you justify the price!!!!! There are way better options out there for like 20 dollars and the work amazingly. Anyone who pays 499 for this thing can literally give me their money 😂😂

[@AndrewFolts]

If design and camera quality, GPS, music, etc, aren't important to you, then a $20 feature phone is a great option. But I would rather support people who put a lot of thought and creativity into their product, so that it's a joy to own and use, rather than something cheap that's intended to be garbage in a year or two.

[@shantanu_pandit_]

​@@AndrewFoltsI have my secondary phone for 11 years now great audio, has blootooth connectivity, headphone jack. I mean if you really want to cut back on social media usage the that is a great start.

[@AndrewFolts]

@@shantanu_pandit_ I had an iPhone 11 too, great phone! The problem was, no matter how many restrictions I set up, it was far too easy to undo them and go back to scrolling on social media. Constantly resisting that temptation whenever I was stressed/tired drained my energy, so I bought the LP2 in order to remove the problem entirely, which freed a ton of energy up for other things, like creativity, relationships, etc. With GPS, music, hotspot, note, and other basic tools, it covered everything I needed without the distractions I didn't, and the e ink screen was also a huge win, because I had and still have serious problems with eyestrain on LED screens. So, at least in my case, "less" was actually worth more than "more."

[@beanerbon]

800? No spotify and soundcloud. I’ll pass. I can make the iphone into a dumb phone

[@AndrewFolts]

It's not $800. It started out a $399 and now it's $499. If dumbing down an iPhone works out for you, that's great. Personally, I tried for years to stick with time limits, deleting apps, etc, but it was just too easy to undo them or reinstall, so I went with the LP2 and it was like "problem solved" in thirty seconds. Going on four years with no iPhone or phone addiction!

[@akshaymahesan8869]

Price is shit

[@AndrewFolts]

That's why I posted the first month, so people could get in at the initial $399 pre-order price. Making unique products for a niche market is super expensive.

[@giovannibrunoro1055]

This “device” is absolutely useless…

[@AndrewFolts]

It's a distraction-free phone with texting, notes, podcasts, calendar, hotspot, GPS, directory, alarms, and two high quality cameras. In what way is that useless, ha?

[@AndrewFolts]

@souta.kawata Minimal launchers are useless for phone addiction, because it takes five minutes max to disable or uninstall them, at which point you're right back to scrolling on social media, etc. With the Light Phone that option doesn't exist, so it's a permanent 100% effective solution vs a temporary band-aid.

[@giovannibrunoro1055]

@@AndrewFolts if you want a distraction-free phone, just get yourself a smartphone and uninstall the apps you don’t want to use.

[@AndrewFolts]

@souta.kawata $20 lol? What kind of cocaine you on bro? No one could manufacture even the world's shittiest phone for that little. The shipping alone costs that much.

[@AndrewFolts]

@souta.kawata Typically designing a product can take $100-500K or more. Then you have customer service, marketing, maintenance, office space rent, employee payroll, benefits, and hundreds of other costs of being in business. That's what it takes to make a niche product and whether it's overrated just depends on how big a problem you have to solve. For me the Light Phone 2 and 3 solve phone addiction in simple, well-designed format that still gives me the features I need, which no other minimalist phone offers. So the price tag is justified, but it'l different for everyone, depending on your needs.

[@_o__o_]

i farted into a lantern.

[@AndrewFolts]

Well, that's certainly a new kind of gaslighting, ha.

[@buzzscreen8365]

Why would you waste money?

[@AndrewFolts]

Why would a person buy any product? To solve a problem. If the LP3 solves an important problem in your life, then buy it. If not, then don't It's pretty simple.

[@lilyliciousss]

its all about you see things right ; smartphones waste peoples time, which is more valuable than anything else because our time here is limited. if this phone helps reduce that and help people take their time back, then it's worth the investment. You don't have to agree, but i think that sorta explains why people are willing to pay it.

[@Zar-Peter]

WhatsApp?

[@AndrewFolts]

Not as of yet, but it's the #1 request, so it's possible they might implement it in 2025.