The mobile landscape has long been dominated by two major players: Android and Apple. But a new device is emerging that could shake things up for those seeking true open-source alternatives. Enter the FLX1s, a genuine Linux phone that runs a Debian-based distribution and promises to deliver the freedom and flexibility that Linux enthusiasts have been waiting for.
Impressive Specifications
The FLX1s comes equipped with specs that put it in competitive territory:
- 8GB RAM – Plenty of memory for multitasking
- 128GB storage – Ample space for apps and data
- Powerful CPU – Designed to handle demanding tasks
- Hardware kill switches – A standout privacy feature
The inclusion of hardware kill switches is particularly noteworthy. This is the first device since the Librem 5 to feature easily accessible physical switches, giving users direct control over their device’s connectivity and sensors.
Network Compatibility
For users in the United States, the frequency support looks promising. The device appears well-suited for major carriers like T-Mobile, making it a practical option for everyday use rather than just a hobbyist curiosity.
A Notable Limitation: USB-C 2.0
One significant drawback worth mentioning is the USB-C 2.0 port. In an era where USB-C 3.2 is becoming standard, this could prove to be a major limiting factor. USB 3.2 enables powerful use cases like connecting external monitors, keyboards, and mice simultaneously—essentially turning your phone into a desktop workstation.
However, this limitation might be less critical than it first appears. When paired with devices like Brilliant Labs’ smart glasses using Bluetooth connectivity, the reduced USB capabilities may not be as much of an issue for many users. The real question is whether you envision your Linux phone as a portable desktop replacement or primarily as a standalone mobile device.
Fury OS: The Best of Both Worlds
The FLX1s ships with Fury OS as its native operating system. What makes this particularly interesting is its dual compatibility:
- Native Debian applications – Run the full suite of Linux desktop applications
- Android app support – Access essential Android applications you might not be able to live without
This hybrid approach addresses one of the biggest challenges facing Linux phones: app availability. You can maintain your Linux workflow while still having access to critical Android apps that haven’t made the jump to native Linux alternatives.
A Developer’s Dream Device
For developers, the FLX1s represents an exciting opportunity. Unlike locked-down mobile ecosystems, this device lets you:
- Build Python applications directly on your phone
- Develop in C++ with full toolchain access
- Create your own programming language if you’re so inclined
- Leverage the entire Debian ecosystem
- Imagine running Claude code on your cellphone.
The phone essentially becomes a pocket-sized development environment, offering possibilities that simply aren’t available on traditional mobile platforms.
Availability and Timing
As of early 2025, the FLX1s is still in pre-sales but is nearing the end of its production run. For those interested in getting their hands on the first batch, acting soon would be advisable.
The Road Ahead
The Linux phone market has seen its share of ambitious projects that fell short of expectations. The FLX1s enters a space where previous attempts have faced significant challenges with stability, app compatibility, and basic functionality.
Whether this device can overcome these historical hurdles remains to be seen. However, the combination of solid hardware specs, privacy-focused features like kill switches, and the pragmatic approach of supporting both Linux and Android applications suggests the FLX1s might have what it takes to succeed where others have struggled.
For Linux enthusiasts tired of compromising on mobile freedom, the FLX1s represents a genuinely interesting option worth watching. Time will tell if 2025 is finally the year of the Linux phone.