#USA #Las Vegas #UP Phone #Unplugged #Joe Weil

Unplugged Relaunches UP Phone with Enhanced Privacy Features

In a bold move to cater to privacy-conscious consumers, Unplugged has officially relaunched its flagship smartphone, the UP Phone, under the leadership of new CEO Joe Weil. With his vast experience, including work on special projects within Apple Services, Weil is set to redefine how smartphones protect user privacy.

The Need for Privacy

At a time when concerns over personal privacy are growing, Joe Weil emphasized the significance of owning a device that truly serves its users instead of profiting from their data. He stated, "More people are concerned about their smartphones than ever before... our phones give us access to so much of the world, they can also be used to filter and limit what we can see." With UP Phone, Unplugged aims to break this cycle of data exploitation.

Comprehensive Privacy Features

The UP Phone is designed with a privacy-first approach, integrating proprietary hardware and software that offers robust protection against data breaches and tracking. A highlight of the device is its on-device Firewall, a foundational security layer protecting users by blocking third-party tracking efforts. This system not only enhances security but also allows users to witness their privacy protections in real-time.

Additionally, the UnpluggedOS, the smartphone’s operating system, operates independently from large tech ecosystems. By leveraging an open-source Android framework without Google Mobile Services (GMS), UP Phone effectively prevents backdoor data collection that often hampers user autonomy.

Independent Verification of Privacy Claims

Tests conducted by cybersecurity firm Raxis demonstrated the extensive privacy advantages of UP Phone over competitors. In direct comparisons with Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro and Samsung’s Galaxy S25, the UP Phone showed an impressive capability to block third-party data traffic effectively. The test revealed 3,181 DNS requests from the iPhone and substantial data exchanges with trackers, while the Galaxy also faced similar challenges. In contrast, UP Phone exhibited no evidence of data requests or exchanges related to third-party tracking during the tests.

User-Friendly Privacy Controls

One of the core selling points of UP Phone is its user-friendly dashboard, which enables customers to monitor and manage their privacy settings effortlessly. The Privacy Center app consolidates key statistics and allows users to regulate their firewall, check for unauthorized access, and control various device functionalities like camera and location services.

Moreover, features like Lost Mode and Emergency Reset ensure that personal data remains protected even in the event of device loss or theft. Furthermore, UP Phone includes a built-in VPN that operates without logs to maintain connection security consistently.

An All-New User Experience

While prioritizing privacy, the UP Phone does not compromise on performance. It boasts a redesigned interface, making navigation intuitive while enhancing user experience. The device is powered by an octa-core Mediatek 1200 processor and features a stunning 6.67-inch AMOLED display, ensuring smooth performance for various applications.

The phone includes a triple-camera system with a 108MP main lens, suitable for capturing high-resolution photos and videos, making it competitive in the smartphone market.

Commitment to Transparency

In an effort to foster trust with users, Unplugged has positioned transparency at the heart of its development practices. The UP Phone’s firewall is now available as an open-source solution, inviting developers and security professionals to audit its security measures.

Unplugged has ambitious plans for domestic manufacturing in the U.S., further enhancing quality control and job creation.

Availability and Pricing

The UP Phone retails for $989 and is available for pre-order at unplugged.com. Customers can expect deliveries to begin in mid-September, with a subscription service offered at $12.99 monthly or $129.99 annually, covering essential privacy features. Customers can also opt for purchases through BestBuy, with the option for in-store pickup.

In summary, Unplugged's UP Phone signifies a substantial shift towards a privacy-centric smartphone experience, promising users a device that respects their personal data while providing the functionality they expect from modern technology.