Breaking: Volla Phone Plinius Targets Privacy-First Market with Two Linux-Based Operating Systems
Liliputing has learned that Volla Phone Plinius is now available, offering a semi-rugged design and a choice between Ubuntu Touch and a Google-free version of Android called Volla OS. The device features a 6.67-inch OLED display with 2400x1080 resolution and a 120 Hz refresh rate, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 chip.
According to company statements, the phone is built for users who prioritize data privacy and wish to avoid Google services. The ruggedized chassis meets IP68 standards for water and dust resistance, with reinforced corners for drop protection.
“We are seeing growing demand from consumers who want the power of a modern smartphone without sacrificing their digital sovereignty,” said Johannes Fischer, Volla’s head of product development, in a press release. “The Plinius gives them that choice—Ubuntu Touch for the pure Linux experience or Volla OS for a Google-free Android environment.”
Key Specifications and Availability
The Volla Phone Plinius ships with mid-range hardware: 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, expandable via microSD. The rear camera array includes a 50MP main sensor and a 13MP ultra-wide lens, while the front houses a 16MP selfie camera. A 4,500 mAh battery provides all-day power.
Customers can pre-order now from Volla’s website, with units expected to ship in early November 2024. Prices start at €499 for the Volla OS version and €569 for the Ubuntu Touch variant.
Background: Volla’s Privacy-Focused Lineage
Volla has been carving a niche in the smartphone market since 2020, releasing devices that emphasize user control over data. Previous models, such as the Volla Phone 22, also offered dual-OS options but with lower-tier processors. The Plinius marks the company’s first foray into high-refresh-rate displays and semi-rugged builds.
Ubuntu Touch, developed by UBports, is a mobile Linux distribution that runs native apps and supports convergence with desktop monitors. Volla OS strips out Google Play Services entirely, relying on open-source alternatives and the Aurora Store for app distribution.
What This Means for Consumers and the Industry
The Plinius fills a gap for privacy advocates who also need a durable phone for outdoor or industrial use. Unlike most rugged devices that run full Android with Google bloatware, this phone offers a clean, tracker-free experience out of the box.
“The Volla Phone Plinius could be a game-changer for anyone who has felt locked into the Google ecosystem but still wants a reliable, modern smartphone,” said tech analyst Marina Torres of Frost & Sullivan, in an interview with Liliputing. “However, adoption hinges on app availability—Ubuntu Touch especially has a limited library compared to mainstream Android.
Industry observers note that the phone’s mid-range specs keep costs down, but performance may lag behind flagship devices. The 120 Hz OLED is a welcome surprise at this price point, though Dimensity 7300 chips are not known for pushing high frame rates in demanding games.
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Jump to sections: Specifications | Background | What This Means
Specifications at a glance: 6.67" FHD+ OLED, 120 Hz; MediaTek Dimensity 7300; 6GB RAM/128GB storage; 4,500 mAh battery; IP68; choice of Volla OS (Android AOSP) or Ubuntu Touch.
Background: Volla collaborated with Hallo Welt Systeme and UBports to bring Ubuntu Touch to the Plinius. The phone supports dual-SIM with 5G connectivity.
What This Means: For enterprises requiring rugged devices without Google data collection, the Plinius offers a certified alternative. For consumers, it’s a rare chance to experience a modern Linux phone with decent hardware.