Ask HN: What is the most basic smartphone that will still run Signal?

2 points by nvoid 5 years ago | 3 comments

My current phone (S9+) is just not cutting the mustard any more. It's too big and has too many features I never use. I wanted to switch to a dumb phone but from a security and privacy standpoint, it is not a great option. I am wondering what the most simple smartphone that will run Signal messenger since that is all I ever use my phone for, messaging and calling. I was thinking Nexus 5 but what experience do you have with other phones?

retrac 5 years ago |

Signal requires Android 4.4 or better. Essentially any Android device meeting that requirement, which isn't so locked down that it allows you to install software (from the Play Store, APK sideloading, whatever) will be sufficient.

The Nexus 5 is 8 years old now. (The age is a particular problem given its lack of replaceable battery.)

You can find used budget smartphones from 3 - 4 years ago for about $20 and they will have far more performance and capability.

From a security and privacy standpoint, you should probably run a recent operating system. That's a tricky one with smartphones, Android is rarely maintained properly by the hardware manufacturer for long. A device supported by something like LineageOS or similar would be good to look for.

As a starting point, the budget Motorola series (Moto E, Moto G series) tend to have small screens, large batteries, and unlocked (or unlockable) bootloaders, often with maintained LineageOS ports.

nvoid 5 years ago | |

Thanks for you're reply, I will look into the Motorola's then.

hourislate 5 years ago |

Have you considered iPhone se for $399? That would be my choice for a small phone. If you go to the following link you can input your requirements and see what comes up.

https://www.gsmarena.com/search.php3?