Blockchain smartphones are the avant-garde devices propelling us into a new era where seamless interaction with Web3 apps, next-generation privacy features, and strict security for digital assets has become the norm. These nifty gadgets offer unrivaled privacy and security for our digital assets while unlocking seamless interactions with decentralized applications (dApps). As smartphone industry titans wade into these uncharted waters, a tidal wave of groundbreaking inventions is set to wash over the mobile world.
Although each device sports its unique combination of features, they all share a common goal: to emphasize blockchain, crypto, and decentralized applications beyond the capabilities of a standard smartphone. Many offer secure self-custody of crypto assets, while some even support running a full Bitcoin node or mobile crypto-mining. Integration with other crypto projects, like the SlotFever Casino, is also one of the main unique selling points of the industry, and today we’re going to explore it. Let’s jump in to the market overview!
Top Blockchain Smartphones on the Market
Although blockchain smartphones have yet to conquer the mainstream, a select few have made their mark and won the hearts of crypto enthusiasts. However, remember that blockchain phones follow the principle that you get what you pay for, where more affordable models may not match the advanced features of their high-end counterparts. Curated just for you, here’s our roundup of the most notable blockchain smartphones currently available.
The FINNEY Phone: A Crypto Connoisseur’s Dream
The Sirin Labs’ FINNEY phone is a feature-rich device tailored for crypto enthusiasts. It includes a built-in hardware wallet that manages transactions and offers exceptional security for users’ private keys. Additionally, it comes with an integrated token conversion tool, enabling effortless swapping between various cryptocurrencies.
Priced at $999 on Sirin Labs’ official website, the FINNEY phone is a tempting option for those seeking to merge the best of blockchain and conventional smartphone technology. For those eager to explore digital currencies, the FINNEY phone offers Sirin Labs’ “Learn and Earn” rewards system, allowing users to study specific cryptocurrencies and earn rewards. Underneath, it shares similarities with the HTC Exodus 1, featuring a Snapdragon 845 chip, 6GB RAM, 128GB storage, and a camera setup with a 12MP rear and 8MP front shooter.
Pundi X Blok on Blok (BOB)
The Pundi X Blok on Blok (BOB) challenges the status quo, merging modularity with the power of blockchain technology. Its distinctive appearance and innovative features make it a fascinating addition to the expanding realm of blockchain smartphones. While the original Pundi XPhone prototype maintained a familiar design, the upcoming BOB edition takes a daring leap into modularity. The BOB is a feast for the senses, sporting an array of snap-together attachments, complete with latches and dials.
The BOB allows users to toggle between two operating systems as needed; An open-source X OS powers the blockchain mode (encompassing all of BOB’s decentralized processes), while the Android mode offers a familiar experience akin to traditional Android-powered devices. Interestingly, the company also claims that users won’t require a central service provider for making calls or accessing the internet on the Blok on Blok.
Electroneum M1: The Blockchain Enthusiast’s Pocket-Friendly Companion
Electroneum, primarily known for its versatile software wallet, has boldly ventured into the smartphone arena with its Electroneum M1. This device fuses cloud mining prowess with a wallet-friendly appeal. Embracing its role as a “cost-conscious Android smartphone,” the Electroneum M1 proudly sports a price tag below $100. Despite this low price tag, it still incorporates 4G capabilities, 8GB storage, and front and rear cameras.
It’s worth noting that certain sacrifices come into play, as with many budget offerings. The M1’s mediocre display and camera quality may not satisfy those accustomed to more premium devices. As such, the Electroneum M1 serves as an ideal secondary device for blockchain-curious individuals who prefer not to splurge on a high-end phone.
KlaytnPhone: A Powerhouse Collaboration for Blockchain Enthusiasts
Samsung, a household name in the smartphone industry, joined forces with Ground X to create the KlaytnPhone—a flagship blockchain phone operating on the Klaytn network. This collaboration gave rise to the KlaytnPhone, a device that encapsulates the best of both worlds—superior design and innovative blockchain technology wrapped in one sleek package.
At first glance, the KlaytnPhone bears a striking resemblance to the Galaxy Note 10 in terms of design. However, the KlaytnPhone distinguishes itself from its sibling through a suite of Web3-centric features. Users can effortlessly access various blockchain-driven services, while the KlaytnPhone’s private key manager ensures top-notch asset security. Furthermore, each device comes with a generous bonus of 2,000 free KLAY tokens, allowing users to dive into the native dapp store and discover a plethora of Web3 games and blockchain applications.
Solana Saga: Reigniting the Crypto and Blockchain Hype
The Solana Saga, a cutting-edge blockchain phone conceived by Solana Labs and asset management firm OSOM, has set the stage for a resurgence of interest in blockchain technology within the smartphone domain. Built upon the Solana blockchain for its web3 functionality, this groundbreaking device boasts several features that cater to the evolving needs of modern users.
Among its many standout attributes is the Solana Mobile Stack (SMS) Software Development Kit, a Web3-first SDK that allows users to tailor their experiences by crafting bespoke tools and apps. The Solana Saga also has a “seed vault” for secure private key storage, Solana Pay for QR code payments, a mobile wallet adapter, and a dedicated DApp store.
Slated for launch in early 2023, with shipping set to commence soon after, the Solana Saga aspires to invigorate the Solana ecosystem and inspire smartphone users to embrace the Web3 revolution at approximately $1000.
HTC Desire 22 Pro: Affordable Metaverse Access in the Palm of Your Hand
The HTC Desire 22 Pro, a mid-range crypto phone from the creators of the groundbreaking Exodus 1, offers affordability and virtual reality capabilities. Users can enjoy an immersive metaverse experience through the innovative Viverse Ecosystem by streaming content to the VIVE Flow headset.
The Desire 22 Pro provides secure Vive wallets for storing digital assets like NFTs, cryptocurrencies, and crypto-powered Vive marketplaces. This captivating device, launched on August 1, 2022, and retailing at around $400, brings the exciting world of metaverse and crypto within reach for many.
HTC Exodus 1 – The Original Blockchain Phone
Since its launch in late 2019, the HTC Exodus 1 has gained popularity, thanks in part to HTC’s established reputation in the smartphone industry. The device’s success can also be attributed to its unique features, such as the built-in hardware wallet and private vault called Zion. This secure component within the phone stores users’ private keys for various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and ERC-20 and ERC-721 tokens.
Zion’s Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) adds another level of security by conducting and signing transactions in an isolated area, protecting against malware. The Exodus 1 also offers a sharp 6″ Quad HD+ screen, a powerful Snapdragon 845 processor, a high-quality dual-lens rear camera, and a 3,500mAh battery.
HTC has introduced two successors: the Exodus 1s and Exodus 1 – Binance Edition. Each version offers unique features and pricing, with the Binance Edition catering to crypto enthusiasts with native support for Binance’s decentralized exchange and chain. At the same time, the Exodus 1s allows running a full Bitcoin node from an SD card.
The Future of Blockchain Phones
Blockchain phones are transforming the way we engage with blockchain networks and cryptocurrencies. Gone are the days of envisioning colossal, power-hungry mining rigs as the sole means of participating in blockchain consensus. Today, battery-operated handheld devices bring crypto mining right into the palms of our hands, lowering the barrier of entry to the crypto sphere. With over 80% of adults worldwide owning or regularly using a smartphone, the surging popularity of Web3 technologies implies that blockchain phones could play a significant role in introducing crypto to millions of people in the coming years.