Furilabs FLX1S - Linux smartphone with support for Android applications and physical switching off of the camera, microphone and modem
Furilabs has introduced the FLX1S, a Linux-based smartphone that also supports running Android applications. This is a simplified version of the FLX1 model released in 2023 and is aimed at users looking for an open platform with full-fledged powerful applications.
Why it is interesting
FLX1S is not the first attempt to release a smartphone on Linux. We can mention at least Moblin, Maemo, MeeGo, Sailfish OS, Ubuntu Touch, etc. The power of modern smartphones tempts engineers to release a mobile device that can utilise this power with full-fledged applications. However, the question of how to adapt them to the small screen size and touch controls remains unresolved. So far, none of these experiments have become truly popular, but the idea continues to tempt more and more engineers and developers, so the FLX1S will certainly not be the last such attempt.
The FLX1S runs on FuriOS, an Arch-based Linux distribution with the KDE Plasma graphical environment. Thanks to Waydroid, the device can run Android applications in a virtual environment, allowing users to combine the freedom of Linux with the popularity of Android.
Furilabs FLX1S specifications
- Processor: Rockchip RK3588 (8-core, 4×Cortex-A76 + 4×Cortex-A55); ARM Mali-G610 MP4
- RAM: 16 GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 128 GB eMMC + microSD slot
- Display: 5.5" IPS, 1920×1080
- Cameras: front 8 MP, main 16 MP
- Battery: 4500 mAh
- Ports: USB-C, micro HDMI, 3.5 mm audio, SIM slot
- Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS
Emphasis on privacy
The smartphone does not have Google services by default, although they can be installed in the same way as on AOSP-Android. FuriOS supports encryption, open source and regular security updates. The camera, microphone, and wireless modem have separate switches on the body that physically disable them.
Price and availability
The Furilabs FLX1S is already available for pre-order at a price of USD 550. The company is positioning it as a device for enthusiasts, developers, and those seeking control over their digital environment.
Source: furilabs.com
