XPhone switches between carriers and blockchain

Pundi Labs has upgraded its upcoming XPhone. The phone now has more computer power, memory and a button to switch between regular apps and decentralized apps (dApps). The X-button introduces a blockchain mode that operates completely independent from centralized carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon and Vodafone.

Users are able to send messages, transfer data and setup phone calls using the blockchain mode. The XPhone is the first mobile phone that can run completely on a decentralized ecosystem, and every XPhone is a node on the network that contributes to the operation of the blockchain ecosystem.

In October the company showcased a prototype of its upcoming blockchain phone. They even performed a blockchain-based phone call live on stage.

At the center of the phone is Function X, which is a blockchain-based ecosystem that can also be licensed and used in other phones. The network can work independent from centralized internet services, but it does require nodes. Function X nodes can be the XPhone, but also the XPOS payment terminals and future hardware licensed or build by Pundi Labs.

Blockchain-based calling and messaging can be turned on and off within the Android 9.0-based operating system. The phone also has a fingerprint sensor, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of minimum storage. The front camera is 16MP, while the back camera is 48MP, while the battery has a capacity of 3500 mAH.

The XPhone will launch late 2019 for $599. There will only be 5000 XPhone produced.

Pundi Labs is making a big leap of faith by launching a phone that's completely build for blockchain technology, but thankfully is also backwards compatible with regular service providers. Other tech companies have also revealed their first steps into mobile blockchain tech. Samsung is implementing crypto wallets into its upcoming Samsung Galaxy S10, HTC continues to build on the HTC Exodus 1, and Electroneum has launched a crypto-friendly Android phone made for the unbanked in South Africa.