It's not often that innovative devices on crowdfunding platforms like Indiegogo make it to commercial release, but one company has managed to bring its dual-screen hybrid smartphone to the real world
The Cosmo Communicator is a smartphone-computer, inspired by extremely popular PDAs such as the Nokia Communicator, the Sharp Netwalker and the Psion Series 5 which feature dual screens and can also run Linux.
Planet Computers, the company behind the Cosmo Communicator, launched an Indiegogo campaign last year for its hybrid smartphone, which was inspired by PDAs. The campaign attracted 4,000 backers and raised $2.05 million, which allowed for mass production of the device.
The Cosmo computer features two touchscreens, a 24-megapixel camera, a 5-megapixel selfie camera, dual 4G, and a clamshell design, which makes it very attractive.
When the device is closed, it has a 2” touchscreen on the back and a large 6” touchscreen when open.
It also features a full, physical backlit keyboard with individual key lights, with up to 5 brightness levels. The Cosmo Communicator is powered by the MediaTek Helio P70 processor, has 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. It also has a fingerprint sensor for authentication.
For now, the smartphone uses Android OS, but the company also plans to release Sailfish, Linux Debian , and Linux Kali with the device, which will make it an even more attractive option for users who don't want to run an Android or iOS.
The Cosmo Communicator is available for $871 excluding tax or £799.00 including VAT on Planet Computer's website. The company also held an event on Friday in London where it will officially unveil its new smartphone.
