For those of us who still believe that a physical keyboard is the only way to truly communicate on a mobile device, the recent developments surrounding the Minimal Phone 2 have been nothing short of exhilarating. As the crowdfunding campaign for this modern QWERTY-equipped smartphone continues to shatter expectations, The Minimal Company has responded to the overwhelming enthusiasm of its backers by delivering a significant hardware boost.
A Powerhouse for Tactile Typists
Originally slated to launch with 8GB of RAM, the Minimal Phone 2 has officially received a hardware upgrade, with the company confirming that the device will now feature 12GB of RAM. This decision comes as the project has successfully raised over $1.6 million on Kickstarter, far exceeding its initial $100,000 goal. This move ensures that the device, which is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300 chipset, has the necessary headroom to handle modern multitasking while maintaining its focus on a distraction-free, productivity-oriented experience.
The Minimal Phone 2 is a callback to popular BlackBerry phones of the past, and features a MediaTek Dimensity 8300, 5G, and a touch-capacitive physical QWERTY keyboard.
The shift to 12GB of RAM is a clear signal that the developers are listening to their core audience. Beyond the internal memory, the device has undergone a notable evolution from its predecessor, most notably by replacing the original E Ink display with a vibrant 3.92-inch AMOLED panel. This 90Hz screen offers a much smoother experience for those who need to navigate apps beyond simple text entry, all while keeping the iconic, backlit physical keyboard layout that we have come to love.
The commitment to hardware quality is further evidenced by the inclusion of multiple physical keyboard layouts, including QWERTY, AZERTY, and QWERTZ, ensuring that the tactile experience is tailored to users worldwide. By combining this classic form factor with modern internals like 5G connectivity and a 50MP camera, the Minimal Phone 2 is positioning itself as a serious contender for those of us who refuse to abandon the physical keys.
