Dumb Co flip phone offers smartphone apps in a simpler device
9 reported
A company called Dumb Co sells flip phones that sync to smartphones, allowing users to access apps like WhatsApp, Spotify, Apple Music, and Uber while reducing screen time. The device, called the Dumb Phone, runs custom software on a $20 TCL flip phone shell and can forward calls and texts from a smartphone. TechCrunch reporter Lydia Peabody tested the device for over a month, initially keeping her iPhone as a backup. She found the phone clunky and slower than a smartphone but appreciated the reduced distractions. Peabody eventually left her iPhone at home for a day trip, relying on the Dumb Phone for navigation and recording interviews. The company grew out of a community challenge called Month Offline, where participants exchange smartphones for flip phones. Dumb Co is funded by friends and family and run by a small team in their 20s and early 30s.
What’s reported
Dumb Co sells flip phones that sync to smartphones rather than replace them.
The Dumb Phone runs custom software on a $20 TCL flip phone shell.
Users can access WhatsApp, Spotify, Apple Music, and Uber on the device.
iMessage is accessible through a third-party app.
The company grew out of the Month Offline community challenge.
Dumb Co is funded by friends and family and run by a small team in their 20s and early 30s.
TechCrunch reporter Lydia Peabody tested the Dumb Phone for over a month.
Peabody eventually left her iPhone at home for a day trip and used the Dumb Phone successfully.
The Dumb Phone ships with a black velour pouch for storing the smartphone when left at home.
Key figures
Lydia Peabody: TechCrunch reporter who tested the Dumb Phone; also founding CMO of Dumb Co and former licensed therapist.
Afreka Ebanks: Dumb Co’s communications director.
Sources: TechCrunch
