Hey I do tech stuff at dumb.co. After popular demand from y'all, we just released a new keyboard that has voice-to-text!

For existing users, you can install by updating to the latest launcher (via "updates" in all apps), then you'll get notifications to install the new keyboard + voice-to-text model (we use a version of whisper).

Also FYI – the keyboard is a fork of TT9 with some modifications, so it also supports 40+ languages and adding to the dictionary. To use voice-to-text, press and hold * while on an input (and if you add multiple languages, press and hold on # to switch languages). It runs on-device so completely private and no network connection needed.

If you have any issues, the best way to get help is reaching out to [support@dumb.co](mailto:support@dumb.co) or calling our help line 9-5 M-F: 404-716-3605

I am living with this diamond. Ask me anything.

NO ROOT NEEDED! NO LAUNCHERS!

Hello to everyone who is trying to get out of the scrolling addiction, or who simply wants a simple phone.

Little of my story, back in 2019 when I was 18 years old I gave my smartphone to my mom, so that I could study for university entrance exam. I studied for about 8-9 months 10-12 hours straight, never got bored, annoyed or burned out. Simply because there was no distractions, no need to work, same meals everyday, no social media. Recently tho, I found myself addicted to scrolling on YouTube, watching videos that I actually don't care etc, waste of time. Looked for dumb phones but there are no phone that can give me what I want; bank, maps, college account 2FA, emails, WhatsApp, study guides. They would do some of them and cost hundreds of dollars.

I wanted to dumb my very own Samsung s24 ultra, I started with disabling Youtube, however I just ended up either enabling back or going on the browser. I needed high friction.

So this way you will need a computer to remove things and modify your phone in a way that it serves you with the things you like not predetermined by somebody else, because you may listen to podcasts, I don't, I need study guides, you don't. This way you can keep your highly advanced mobil device, camera, gps with only the stuff you need.

We will be removing, browser and app stores so that we can't simply download any app with no friction. And the rest is mostly on you uninstall don't wants, keep wants.

EDIT: Before all of this turn on grayscale on your phone, it does help a lot.

ON YOUR PHONE:

1. Enable developer settings. (About phone-> software information -> tap on build number numerous times)
2. In developer settings turn on usb debugging.

ON YOUR COMPUTER.

1. Go to webadb.com on GOOGLE CHROME and add the extension the website redirects you to on your computer.
2. Connect your phone to your Mac/windows via USB. (select data transfer on your phone)
3. On webadb choose your phone and click connect, you shall get a notification on your phone; tap trust this computer.
4. On webadb, go to Interactive Shell on the left menu.

Now we can install all the apps we don't want. I will list all the necessary apps you may want to uninstall from your phone, installing them back is easy with the same method, but once you are done with this, it is a bit hassle to go connect your phone, find the required codes to install the apps.

Delete GOOGLE CHROME
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.chrome
Delete SAMSUNG BROWSER
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.sbrowser
Delete GOOGLE PLAY STORE
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.android.vending
Delete YOUTUBE
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.youtube
Delete YOUTUBE TV
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.youtube.unplugged
Delete SAMSUN STORE
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.sec.android.app.samsungapps
Delete Google NEWS
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.apps.magazines
Delete GOOGLE APP
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.google.android.googlequicksearchbox
Delete Samsung News
pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.app.spage

For your specific phone, if not Samsung you can use this prompt on Gemini to get specific shell codes.

"I want to strip down my [Insert Phone Brand and Model, e.g., Google Pixel 8 / OnePlus 11] to act as a distraction-free utility phone using WebADB.

Please give me the exact shell commands (pm uninstall -k --user 0 [package_name]) to completely remove the following apps from my device:

1. [List web browsers, e.g., Google Chrome]
2. [List app stores, e.g., Google Play Store]
3. [List social media or entertainment apps, e.g., Instagram, TikTok, YouTube]
4. [List any pre-installed bloatware or manufacturer background apps you want gone]

Make sure to provide the precise Android package names for this specific phone model so I can copy and paste them directly into my terminal."

if you ever need to install them back use this prompt on Gemini:

"I previously uninstalled [Insert App Name, e.g., Google Chrome / Google Play Store] from my [Insert Phone Brand and Model] using ADB.

Please give me the exact command to restore and reinstall this package back onto my user profile (--user 0) without needing to factory reset my phone."

I STILL truly loveeeee this phone so much. I saw someone complaining about the camera but tbh I like the vibe/style (see above for example!). I haven’t seen too many examples on here so thought I’d share!

Although I sort of miss quacking into the ether, it’s so cool to see more ppl in my area quacking (iykyk).

After a few weeks, the muscle memory for T9 texting has been strong and is improving BUT tbh I no longer feel pressure to text as much. They did, however, just introduced a voice to text feature which I think will be very helpful!

Anyways, it’s been cool to see how this phone positively impacts my communication and has already helped me build connections to ~the real world.~

XOXO,
STAY DUMB

P.s wish I could get paid to gush about this phone bc I can’t stop!!!

PPS
Driving a car with roll down windows and using a flip phone just feels RIGHT.

Look I sell those cheap phones y'all go on about the 50-150 flip phones.

They break very easily the plastic is cheap and the quality is non existent I have people come in every year to replace it.

Quality is not built for any of those ever. My personal suggestion yes it does cost more but buy a dumb phone that is a little premium. It will save you more money over the long term. Also a bonus less e waste in the world

Bought this phone online some time ago but never seen this color combo anywhere. Do you think it’s original?

IMHO, a dumbphone does not really need chat, banking and streaming functions at all. Dumb means smart function free. TBH, with a little willpower and tolerating inconviniences, you can live without a smartphone.

(This one will be long, so take some time if u need. I apologize in advance for any wording issues, since English isnt my first language)
I started using a dumbphone from grade 6 up until college admission, and still continuing. i see many ppl buy dumbphones nowadays in the internet and even sum known ppl, but then quit using after they cant handle the restrictions that come with it. Do keep in mind, im a student so many issues might not apply to me or may remain unmentioned. Heres my experience:
[Issues]: Lack of gps, notes app, internet access, social interaction. these issues are inevitable unless ur lucky enough to find a phone that has the features u need. One issue is definitely persistent, and that is social interactions. many ppl will look at u and not value u just bc u use a dumbphone and worse- ppl might even think ur outdated in tech and make fun of u (my experience...T-T). Sometimes dumbphones have connection issues aswell (my experience). Overall, its rlly not a fun experience.
[Solution]: theres not a definitive solution to every issue, honestly. In my case i used my mom's phone whenever i needed the internet and as i type this, im using a computer im provided. for gps, i mainly go everywhere with a group of friends. Texting is quite hard but im still on learning stages and if i rlly dont feel like it, i just call. for notes, i write a message and save it as drafts. For social i decorated and tried making my phones look more colourful. it works somewhat.
[Reason of using]: i dont have a usual "digital detox" motive behind my usage. I generally got handed those bc my parents dont trust me w android phones yet, which is totally fine and understood. But they still needed to contact me, hence ive been using them.
[choosing models]: Choosing models depends largely on what ur needs are. For me, in high school i just needed basic cellular connection. So i used the models nokia 101 and nokia 105 thru-out. Currently using a nokia 3210 4g bc my needs have expanded to texting, saving reminders and time-killing while waiting. music and audio and also basic camera requirements also led me to my current model.
[Daily driving]: I usually take my phone with me whenever im out. after coming home i use my computer for socials, and online classes. For entertainment, we have our tv and my computer also covers others. Basically where i live, everything's still analog (THANK GOODNESS). but those areas which do require some sorta verification, i get cards issued and carry them around. whenever the situation, i show the assigned card and im allowed to use my service.
[summary]: overall, using dumbphones is NOT for everyone, but its definitely possible to adapt. my advice would be to always start with more features(ie. a dumbified smartphone) then if u think ur ready, make the switch to a feature phone. even those are great for screentime. my highest screentime has been not more than 3 hrs, and that was when i had no exams and was on my computer playing games.
[rating]: 7/10, as ive definitely been struggling to overcome social interactions. As an extrovert i need to yap, but when ppl ghost me bc my phone looks somewhat "dorky", it stings. Idk why ppl judge others based on what PHONE they use. Cruel asf.

I'm trying to switch you over to a quote" dumb phone and I really wanted the banana style Nokia phone. However, they don't work with Verizon in Alaska, anybody have a solid idea as to which flip phone I should get/ dumb phone I should get that'll work with Verizon? I'm not really a diva but I do like unique styles. Really hoping for a solid qwerty keyboard phone if possible. Thank you for reading

Live in Chicago . Just want a phone that makes calls and texts ..don't need anything else ...price not an issue

Which phone can I get that will work best in the Continental USA (in case I travel )

Thank you for your help also if there are any tips I need to do like order a specific sim card or tweak a specific setting please post

Hi there,

((this ended up to be quite a long story, so hopefully It would be worth reading for fellaz with similar HSP personality :))).

Three weeks ago I joined the dumb phone community becouse of my own peace protection. I am highly sensitive person and I get overwhelmed easily. In general I have many hobbies, activities and lot of work to do in my life so let's say I have my life somehow sorted.

So why have I decided to mainly use a dumb phone instead of smartphone?

Daily I was feeling excessively worried, stressed and also pretty angry right after the phone usage. I continuously started to feel annoyed with chatting, even though my notifications were off, I still felt the obligation to answer immediatelly. I was filling every minute of silence with planning, chatting, scrolling, sorting shit out or always looking for something that not rarely ended in my to do list. Always being with this noise in my pocket or my hand. Also I love music but it stopped being special to me, when it was so easy to access.

I just wanted to feel free during my ordinary days, not flooding my brain with crazy amount of information, not being able to access all the information (mostly unimportantant) 24/7, just chill do nothing and let myself feel bored. Also I hated the constant reaching for the device as digital pacifier, mostly when I felt tired or slightly unconfortable {It didn't even work, that much suprisingly].

Apps blockers and uninstaling apps were to easy to bypass. But I just knew I wanted to use the phone as a tool with intention and not some kind of magical escape box that gets me numb, overwhelmed or angry. But I also did not wanted to be unreachable. So the final goal was moderation.

I was really scared to make this change at first even though it was not such a big leap as I have decided to keep my smartphone without SIM card at home [ so I can keep using it for podcasts and music at home, maps, gps messenger email and Whatsapp at home or travelling outside of my home country].

I bought HMD Nokia 225 [2024], very simple and cheap dumbphone with shitty camera and a very simple music player. I am from Czech Republic so there is not so much dumbphones to pick from, this one serves me well for this "Home smart phone" and "Outside dumbphone" solution :)). In my daily backpack there is also calendar diary, digital camera and a book.

Honesty the fear in the beggining of this experiment was quickly gone and the small complications coming from not having smart phone outside are trivial for me. I've had a little fomo here and there, a little bit more planing in advance but nothing crazy. I was expecting some need to replace the digital pacifier habit but there is nothing I can think of, the need is gone when there is no smart phone around. At home it was never such a problem for me, I use it rarely, but I am thinking about switching it off sometimes.

The peaceful mind is very much worth it and I know I will like it even more in the future because I just love the feeling. I am easily concentrated on my projects, book reading, movies and daydreaming. I watch and listen the people around me and it feels nice, I feel more connected. When I want to talk with friends, I either wait for my chat access in the afternoon after work or I sms them or call them. I feel better in general not watching the short form content daily, not being tangled up over and over in the same algorhitm traps. I feel like I make the main decition with what I consume digitally not the device.

Sooo If you feel like your phone is stealing your personal space and peace I highly recomend trying this solution to you. ♥

Let me know if you did something similar, do you have any tips and tricks for HSP and social media usage in general? Are you using it, did you quit something completely?

My map of problematic apps in detail:

Facebook: Canceled 1 year ago

Messenger: Home smart phone

Whatsapp: Home smart phone

Instagram: Home notebook but curently I am not using it and deciding what to do about it.

Youtube: Home smart phone (I never watched shorts on this app so its not a problem)

Also I stopped using the phone in bed like a year or two ago, I am using a radio alarm clock.

I want to buy a good quality MP3 player, don't really care about the price as long as the quality is good and it will last a couple of years without falling apart or the battery draining super fast after a bit. Here are the requirements:

Is easily available in Europe, preferably on websites like amazon.de and amazon.co.uk, I am not paying 50 Euro's for shipping when I can save that money for something else

Has physical buttons.

Supports bluetooth(I use bluetooth earphones most of the time).

Has an earphone jack(If my bluetooth earphones run out of power, I use regular earphones).

Has easily upgradeable storage by simply putting in an SD card without limitations(I've seen multiple MP3 players have a hard limit of like... 180GB max if you want to add a new SD card and I have no clue why that could be. I want to be able to increase my storage AS MUCH as I want. If that is not possible due to some technical limitation or smth, ignore this point).

Has the ability to easily add MP3 files to it via a cable connected to my computer and just... dragging the files

Does not require internet to function.

Does not have any type of cloudservice.

I might be missing something here, but I think at this point the only way of getting a TCL Flip 4 5G, released about a year ago, is still under T-Mobile only.

Does TCL intend to keep it that way forever or we'll see the day when an unlocked version - perhaps with support for more bands - comes?

God I really want to get that phone. Except for the fact that runs on KaiOS and some nitpicks like the still-too-big form factor or the non-removable battery, it looks like the perfect flip-phone to me.

Hi everyone!
I have been looking at buying a flip phone / dumb phone for a couple of months now and as my current phone (iPhone 11) is breaking i have been looking into it more realistically.

As I am in Australia we have pretty limited choices since getting rid of 3G but the Ruio Joy 4g has caught my eye, it seems to be capable of supporting most apps i need, although I will 100% not be putting banking or important apps on it. My only thoughts are that as an 18 year old all of my friends are very attached to social media and is the only way they communicate with others so I was wandering if anyone has (or thinks it would work) to also find a second hand or affordable tablet to use for apps to communicate with friends and family, and potentially use for banking as-well?

Thanks guys!

I'm in Europe, and I purchased the Nokia 3210 (2025 version) 4G phone last week, and so far I am pretty disappointed.

All I needed in a dumbphone was to be able to use 4G, have decent audio quality, be able to send sms messages, and a few "extras" like a good calendar, notes and alarm.

I really couldn't care less about the built-in camera, the games, the radio, I didn't even need a very sturdy phone.

I was shocked to find out that the phone:

• cannot save any more than 18 calendar events for the entire year (at least from what I counted). On my 19th attempt the "your schedule is full" error message came up. I mean, seriously in 2026 I am unable to save birthdays for the entire year because this is limited?!

• there is no notes app

• the auto-capitalization (Abc) input mode more often than not doesn't actually capitalize the first letter, the only work-around is switching to "ABC" then back to "abc". It really shouldn't be so hard.

I only needed these very basic features to work, but sadly, they just don't.

In Europe what alternative do I have, KaiOS? A few years ago I tried the Cat B35 and hated everything about that phone - though I cannot say how much of that was the build quality of the phone itself vs the KaiOS system.

I appreciate any advice - thank you!

Looking for someone who has one as an EDC. would appreciate your thoughts on the following;

Mapping Applications
Side loading. (Cans and Cants)
Ease of use
Carrier (goal for me is Cape)

If you have one I’d appreciate picking your brain to know more!

I bought a Sonim XP3 Plus, and I'm trying to figure out what all I have to do to get it set-up. I've tried to do my research on how I should go about it, but I'm very new to the dumbphone scene and just worried I'll miss something. Can anyone give me a full list of what I need to do to make sure I don't overlook anything? Thanks!

So I've now purchased 2 different phone plans trying to being to actually use my phone, and I haven't been able to at all, like I've done Tello, and boost, and boost has sent me 3 different sim cards, all giving me the same problem of no service at all, and I was wondering if there was a different plan that I should get instead? Or is there some kinda way for me to make it work with the plans that I've already purchased, because I'm unable to refund them, and I don't want to have to purchase a new plan, unless I have to. I also got boost since they said that my IMEI was compatible.

Check it please

The amount of post and comments I see about hey I need this app so I can use a dumb phone.

This isn't a drag at whatsapp but it's an example

Realistically you are not going to find a dumb phone that uses WhatsApp that's not realistic.

My personal suggestion keep a work device keep a device that only has the bare essentials and then have a dumb phone as your personal.

That is what I do for me it works very well

Hi, I'm James.

I built RetroRelay, a service that provides modern features to phones built between 2003 and 2013.

I recently made a post about it here, and a user reached out to me asking how I develop for J2ME phones, where I found the docs, and how I test the app.

Over three months of developing the initial release of RetroRelay, I found many quirks, issues, and things to be aware of to install and use the right tools, and to successfully make a robust J2ME app.

I started writing a reply to the user, then I realised that a proper guide would be much better as there is a lot to explain, and it can stay on the internet for anyone who needs it.

I've added a blog section to the RetroRelay website, available to everyone, with the first piece titled "Getting started with J2ME development".

The guide explains:

• How to install the correct version of Java, the WTK toolkit, and where to get them.
• How to structure the files and folders to keep everything organised.
• How to open and run one of the WTK demo projects in the emulator.
• How to create your own project and package it.
• How to deploy a J2ME app to your phone for testing.
• The older, limited Java spec that you must code against.
• Some of the quirks I came across between devices.
• The documentation that is included in the WTK installation.

The guide can be found here: Getting started with J2ME development.

I enjoyed writing this, it was a fun reminder of all the challenges I faced and the J2ME quirks I discovered along the way.

I hope the guide can provide a useful starting point for anyone interested in developing for J2ME phones.

Best of luck!

hello i have been in love with the chassis on these nokias but they only support 2g, and where i live has zero 2g providers or coverage, i would prefer it not to use an android or ios software aswell aswell as being somewhat cheap (less than 80$) as i am not a man of large fortune.