Light Phone II: A Minimalistic Phone for a Digital Detox

Reclaiming Control Over Digital Spaces

Light Phone II, designed by Kaiwei Tang, is a simple, 4G LTE phone with a beautiful black and white E-ink display. It is a response to the overwhelming presence of apps, feeds, and smartphones that distract us from our lives. With Light Phone II, users can leave their smartphones at home more often and regain control over their digital experiences.

Unlike traditional smartphones, Light Phone II focuses on essential features such as calling, messaging, and an alarm clock. It intentionally avoids social media, emails, and data-tracking, allowing users to break free from endless feeds and alerts. The phone's thoughtful interface and intentional design encourage users to appreciate tangible experiences and find meaning and purpose in their day-to-day lives.

The E-ink display, similar to e-reader devices, offers low power consumption, strong viewing contrast, and durability. It eliminates the need for a backlight, reducing harmful blue light and easing eye strain. The display is fully legible even in direct sunlight, making it a practical choice for outdoor use.

Light Phone II is designed to be lightweight, splash-resistant, and small enough to fit in your pocket. It features a custom Light OS operating system, a Micro USB charging port, and a headphone jack. The phone's dimensions are 95.85 x 55.85 x 8.75mm, making it compact and portable.

Light Phone II provides users with the freedom to choose the tools they find essential. Through the web-based Dashboard, users can add or remove tools like directions, a calculator, a music player, and ride-sharing. This flexibility allows users to customize their phone experience and "go light" more often.

Launched on Indiegogo in March 2019, Light Phone II began shipping on September 4th, 2019. The design team, led by Kaiwei Tang and Joe Hollier, is based in Brooklyn, NY. The design challenges for Light Phone II included rethinking the phone experience and leveraging the latest technologies while maintaining a timeless and refreshing design.

Recognized for its well-designed, practical, and innovative approach, Light Phone II received the Iron A' Design Award in the Digital and Electronic Device Design category in 2020. This award acknowledges the integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and the contribution to a better world.