In an increasingly homogeneous mobile market, the arrival of new Jolla Phone It represents an interesting twist for those looking for something different from the classic Android or iPhone. This device, developed by the Finnish company Jolla, revives the idea of ​​a European smartphone with its own operating system and it strongly emphasizes privacy, user control, and the ability to repair and maintain the device for a longer period of time.
The company, with roots in Nokia's former MeeGo project, has spent years focused on software, but is now returning to hardware with a phone that has been designed virtually hand in hand with their communityThe new Jolla Phone combines Sailfish OS 5 based on Linux, mid-to-high-end hardware, and features that are very uncommon these days, such as a removable battery or a physical switch to disable the camera and microphone.
A European smartphone that wants to go its own way
Jolla presents this device as the the only European option built on its own operating systemSailfish OS 5, without relying on Android or iOS. The idea is to offer an independent alternative to the major platforms of Apple, Google, and Huawei, so that user data does not systematically pass through their servers or become subject to their tracking and analytics policies.
The company emphasizes that Sailfish OS 5 is a "Real Linux" and not a variant of Androidwith a clear focus on preventing the sending of information in the background. According to the company, the system does not incorporate tracking or hidden statistics and does not require a Google account to use the phone's main functions, something unusual in most current devices.
Sailfish OS 5: Privacy first, but with Android apps
The heart of the new mobile phone is Sailfish OS 5, the latest version of the Jolla operating systemThe platform combines open-source components and proprietary parts, with a promise to fully respect user privacy. The goal is for the phone to be usable on a daily basis without any invisible data being sent to third parties or forced analytics.
At the same time, Jolla is aware that the app ecosystem is key. That's why the system includes the technology AppSupport, which allows you to run Android applications on the Jolla Phone. This way, banking apps, messaging services, or everyday tools can function without needing to integrate Google services or Google Play, using third-party stores or alternative repositories.
What's interesting is that this compatibility is completely optional and can be disabledThe user can choose a "de-Googled" use, completely dispensing with the Android subsystem or activating and deactivating that layer when needed, something that fits with the approach of total control over the device.
Sober, modular design, built to last
The new Jolla Phone opts for a straight-lined design, with sharp corners and a screen with an "eyebrow" notch It's reminiscent of the early iPhones with this notch and, in some ways, the old Nokia Lumia phones. It doesn't aim for an extravagant look, but rather a simple and functional aesthetic, reinforced with Gorilla Glass to protect the front.
One of the most striking details is the replaceable back coverThe phone allows for easy replacement of the back cover, both for aesthetic and maintenance reasons. Jolla will offer covers in various colors, including Kaamos Black, Snow White, and The Orangeso that the user can customize the appearance of the device without the need for bulky cases.
Modularity isn't limited to the cover. The device incorporates a user-removable batteryThis feature has practically disappeared from the mid-range and high-end market. This decision aligns with the idea of ​​extending the phone's lifespan: when the battery degrades, it will simply need to be replaced, without having to go to a repair shop or change phones prematurely.
AMOLED display and mid-to-high-range hardware
In terms of technical specifications, the Jolla Phone features a 6,36-inch AMOLED screen with Full HD+ resolution and 20:9 aspect ratioThe pixel density is around 390 pixels per inch, enough to offer good sharpness in text and images. The screen is protected by Gorilla Glass, although the brand hasn't specified the refresh rate, so everything points to a standard configuration rather than high-frequency panels designed for gaming.
The chosen processor is a MediaTek chip with 5G connectivitywhose exact model number has not yet been made public. It is a high-performance mid-range SoC, accompanied by 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storageThis space can be expanded using microSDXC cards, reaching capacities of up to 2 TB according to some specifications released by the company.
In terms of communications, the new Jolla Phone includes 5G and 4G LTE with global roaming supportIn addition to WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.4, and NFC, the phone also offers dual nano SIM slotallowing the use of two telephone lines simultaneously, which is practical for combining personal and professional numbers or switching between operators.
Cameras and photographic focus
The camera system consists of a dual rear module and a front-facing selfie lens. On the back is a 50 megapixel main sensor, accompanied by a 13 megapixel ultra wide angle for capturing wider scenes, landscapes, or interiors. The manufacturer hasn't specified all the details regarding aperture or stabilization, but the configuration points to solid performance within the mid-range.
On the front, housed in the top notch, there is a wide-angle camera designed for video calls and selfiesAlthough Jolla has not specified the resolution, he does emphasize that the lens offers a wider field of view than usual, so that you can frame several people without having to stretch your arm to the maximum.
Removable battery and a focus on repairability
One of the most distinguishing features of the Jolla Phone is its high-capacity battery, around 5.500 mAhDesigned to offer generous battery life. Depending on the source, the published figure varies slightly between 5.400 and 5.500 mAh, but all agree that it is a remarkably large battery for a device in this segment.
Besides capacity, what's relevant is that the battery is user replaceable without complex toolsThis allows you to replace it when it loses performance, carry a second unit for very long days without access to a charger, or extend the phone's life for several more years, a point that Jolla links to sustainability and its policy of extended support for Sailfish OS, which is planned in cycles of around five years.
Advanced physical privacy and security switch
The star component of the hardware is the physical privacy switch located on the side of the chassisUnlike simple software shortcuts, this control is designed to immediately disable sensitive components such as the microphone, cameras, or Bluetooth, minimizing the possibility of the device "listening" or "watching" when the user does not want it to.
Jolla explains that this switch is configurable, so that each person decides which functions are turned off when activated. Options include microphones, camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and even compatibility with Android apps. Some company documents clarify that, although the mechanism is operated by a physical button, part of the deactivation is managed by software, maintaining a balance between security and ease of use.
The terminal also integrates a fingerprint sensor on the side power buttonThis facilitates quick, one-handed unlocking. In addition, RGB LED notificationsThis feature, which is becoming less common in modern mobile phones, allows you to see at a glance if there are pending messages or notifications without turning on the screen.
Made in Finland and with a European focus
Jolla emphasizes that the final assembly of the Jolla Phone, software installation and quality control These tests are being carried out in Salo, Finland. With this, the company aims to reinforce the message that Europe can still produce its own technology under its own rules, without being entirely dependent on the Asian supply chain for all phases of the product.
The chairman of the board of Jolla Group Oy, Antti Saarnio, has indicated that this mobile phone responds to the the need for Europe to develop and maintain its own technological ecosystemThe company encourages other European firms to join this initiative to build a digital network less dependent on external platforms, both in software and hardware.
Reservations, price and availability in Europe
El launch The new Jolla Phone is being managed through a a booking campaign that functions almost like a partial crowdfunding campaignTo put the device into mass production, the company set a minimum of 2.000 deposits of 99 euros before January 4, 2026. That figure has already been exceeded, with more than 2.000 units reserved in just a few days, which has encouraged Jolla to open a second limited pre-sale batch.
Those who reserve the phone must pay 99 euros as a deposit and an additional 399 euros before shipping, which leaves the advance price at 499 EurosThis amount is lower than the expected retail price, which the company places in an approximate range of between 599 and 699 euros once the device reaches the normal channel.
Regarding distribution, the Jolla Phone will initially target European Union countries, United Kingdom, Norway and Switzerland, with an estimated delivery schedule for the first half of 2026Jolla leaves the door open to expanding availability to other markets, including the United States, if demand and interest justify it.
A niche mobile phone for those who want control and privacy
The new Jolla Phone doesn't aim to compete with the big Android bestsellers in price or raw performance figures, but rather to offer a niche device for users who prioritize privacy, control, and repairabilityIt combines competent mid-to-high-end hardware, an independent European operating system, and a number of features that are rare these days, such as a removable battery or a physical privacy switch.
For those living in Spain or the rest of Europe who are looking to escape the Android-iOS dichotomy without giving up essential apps, this device stands out as a unique option: more expensive than other phones with similar specifications, but with added value in the form of data sovereignty, extended support y designed to last for several years without becoming obsolete at the first opportunity.