New Linux PinePhone Pro

PinePhone Pro. © Pine64.

Just two years ago, we relayed news of the release of the PinePhone, with Linux operating system compatibility as its standout feature. Pine64 is back with a new, amped-up version, the PinePhone Pro. The device is based on a Rockchip RK3399 SoC which includes two Cortex A72 CPUs and four Cortex A53 CPUs. It features a 6-inch (1440×720) LCD screen, 4GB of RAM, 128GB of eMMC storage and a 3000 mAh battery, rechargeable by USB-C (15W). It also has a headphone jack, a 13MP main sensor and an 8MP front sensor./p>

You can easily pop the phone open to change the battery, access a microSD slot, pogo pins and privacy DIP switches to physically disable the microphone, rear camera, front camera, headphones, tethering, and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth. You can also equip it with different optional back panels that can add features like a fingerprint reader, wireless charging or an additional 6,000 mAh battery. The suggested retail price will be US$ 599, but it’s available for pre-order at the introductory price of US$ 399. Pine64 says it will continue to manufacture the original PinePhone, still available for the ridiculously low price of US$ 150. The Pro model will ship starting January 24. Keep in mind, however, that Linux operating systems for mobiles are still far behind Android or iOS. PinePhones are therefore better suited for tinker techs and DIY enthusiasts.

⇨ Ars Technica, Ron Amadeo, “The PinePhone Pro brings upgraded hardware to the Linux phone.”

2022-01-17