With this smartphone you have control over your data again

With the Volla Phone X23, the start-up Hello Welt Systeme is launching the second generation of its robust open-source smartphones made in Germany. The manufacturer promises that the waterproof housing (IP68) is particularly robust according to the military standard MIL-STD-810H. Also nice: The large battery (5000 mAh) can be replaced without tools, the internal memory is expandable and the headphone jack is still there. The other technical data does not read spectacularly, but is completely sufficient.

The new and particularly robust Full PhoneX23 for the equivalent of good 500 francs complements the previous flagship model Full phone 22which is considerably smaller and lighter and temporary for just below 400 francs has been offered.

The hardware (Volla Phone X23)

The hardware corresponds to typical mid-range smartphones: the 6.1-inch display, for example, is not ultra-high resolution, but is sufficiently bright and, at least according to the data sheet, of the more stable type. Strictly speaking, the Volla Phone X23 is an outdoor smartphone converted into a rugged mobile phone for data protection.

Of course you can technically get much better smartphones for 500 francs. However, Volla Phone does not focus on performance data. These devices are bought by a niche audience that prioritizes uncompromising privacy over the latest technology.

Users reach for the Volla Phone because of the software, which according to the manufacturer does not require any cloud, tracker or account force – ie the opposite of iOS or Android.

Frankly, it must be emphasized that the devices are more aimed at tech-savvy people who do not necessarily expect the user-friendliness of iOS and Android.

The software

As with the predecessor, the Germans rely on themselves Google Free Android Operating System Volla OSwhich differs significantly in use from the usual Android or iOS user interface (we explained how Volla OS works in this article).

Very commendable: if you don’t get excited about Volla OS, you can order the smartphone with the mobile Linux variant Ubuntu Touch or with the Multi-boot function use other operating systems, such as Sailfish OS.

The Google apps that usually come pre-installed on Android have been replaced by privacy-friendly, open-source alternatives. Without Google apps and services, Volla OS enables “a high level of security and uncompromising privacy protection”, the Germans promise.

Even without Google software, most Android apps run on the Volla Phone. If an app requires Google services, users can optionally install microG, an alternative and open-source implementation of the features offered by Google Play services. However, most Google apps do not work or only work to a limited extent, but if you suffer from them, you will not buy a Volla phone.

Unlike Google’s Android or Apple’s iOS, there is no quasi-account requirement. That means: The Volla Phone can be used without a Google, Apple or other user account and without a cloud connection. Volla OS causes about 80 percent less data traffic because the device does not constantly send usage data to the manufacturer and therefore to the US.

Volla OS now offers AI speech recognition for voice input, which only runs locally. The manufacturer wants to distinguish itself from the voice assistants from Apple and Google. “Like the operating system itself, we will also publish the source code of the new components to create transparency,” promises the company’s founder, Jörg Wurzer.

They also plan to offer “long-term system updates” for Volla OS. Volla OS 12 has now been released, the fourth major software update for the first generation Volla Phone.

In addition to private users, the German manufacturer is increasingly targeting organizations that have special requirements for data protection or stability (robust and watertight); including business customers from the healthcare sector and the fire service. That is why companies and governments can now centrally set up and manage Volla smartphones for their employees with the open source device management Headwind MDM.

The conclusion

The young German start-up Hallo Welt Systeme consistently continues its path in the niche. Four Volla phones are now available, with prices ranging from around 200 to 500 francs. The first Volla phone I tested over two years ago is still on sale and is now available for the equivalent of 200 francs.

The new, particularly robust Volla Phone X23 is to be placed in the health and emergency department (paramedics, firefighters). The more elegant Volla Phone 22 is intended for private users who want an extra portion of privacy. However, the devices are aimed at veteran security fans: Anyone who expects the all-round carefree package from Android or iOS will probably be disappointed.