Aspera launches two new 4G dumb phones ahead of 3G shutdown

Alex Choros - Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor

Last updated 01 May 2024

Aspera is selling two new sub-$100 4G "dumb phones" for Australians still on a 3G handset (or a 4G handset that doesn't support VoLTE) who don't want to upgrade to a smartphone in light of the 3G shutdown.

The devices in question are the F50 flip phone (pictured above) and F48 candy bar phone, retailing for $99 and $69 respectively. Both phones naturally have 4G connectivity and have VoLTE. VoLTE allows the phones to keep making phone calls after 3G networks have been shut down.

Aspera Managing Director Allan Robertson says the company understands not everyone wants or needs the functionality of a smartphone.

"For these people phones that are simple and easy to use are the best way forward and those two features are perfectly embodied by the F50 and F48," said Roberson.

"Let’s be clear, these phones have simple, basic but essential features. More often than not they are used by the young or elderly who simply want to make and receive calls and send and receive texts."

The F50 flip phone is the more advanced of the pair featuring USB-C charging, a 2MP camera, and an SOS button on the back. The F48 candy bar phone is a little more basic with micro USB charging and an 0.3MP camera. Both devices have a 2.4-inch display and a 1,000mAh battery.

The two new phones are available now from Big W, Mobileciti, Retravision, and select convenience stores.

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Alex Choros

Managing Editor + Group Telco Editor | X | Instagram | Threads | LinkedIn

Alex Choros is the Managing Editor of WhistleOut Australia and an award-winning journalist. He's been writing about consumer technology for over a decade and is an expert on the Australian telco sector, to the point where he knows far too many phone and internet plans by heart. In addition to leading the WhistleOut editorial team, Alex is responsible for ruining the office Sonos with his troubled taste in music.

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