After the excitement caused by the launch of the first Solana Saga, it was predictable that other ecosystems would develop their own native smartphone. On October 22, Freedom Factory announced dGEN1, the first device designed for the Ethereum ecosystem, with the aim of improving the mobile experience for cryptocurrency users. Powered by the ethOS v4 operating system, the device promises seamless interactions with dApps and intuitive on-chain transactions. Shipments are scheduled for spring 2025, and until December 31, it can be pre-ordered with a 5% discount.
Key Features of dGEN1
dGEN1 has been designed to combine accessibility and security, making the Web3 experience simpler and safer. Among its distinctive features are:
Optimized operating system: ethOS allows direct and secure interaction with dApps, eliminating the need for external browsers or traditional stores.
Native browser and dedicated store: These facilitate access to and interaction with the crypto ecosystem.
Advanced security features: Helios and Nimbus clients enhance transaction protection and speed.
Decentralized messaging: Enables sending messages and tokens using ENS addresses or wallets.
Unique design elements include a secondary touchscreen terminal, a customizable LED grid (“Matrix”), and programmable buttons for specific uses.
Technical Specifications
Processor: MediaTek Helio G99 for high performance and energy efficiency.
Display: Dual LCD screens, a 3.95-inch main screen and a 1.71-inch secondary screen for metadata.
Memory and Storage: 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage.
Camera: 48 MP with flash.
Battery: 4500mAh with fast charging support.
Connectivity: 4G, WiFi5, Bluetooth, GPS, NFC.
Additional features: Built-in laser, programmable LED bar, and support for eSIM and physical SIM, allowing users to use the dGEN1 as a fully functional phone.
Airdrop and Benefits
By pre-ordering the device (priced at 0.15 ETH or 37,000 DEGEN at the time of writing), users will receive an NFT to redeem the physical phone. Pre-orders made by December 31, 2024, using the promotional code “Y0ODQ4” will get a 5% discount.
Upon delivery, buyers will receive a multi-chain airdrop. Key Ethereum ecosystem projects have allocated some of their tokens to a pool currently valued at over $500,000. Confirmed tokens in the airdrop include $SENDIT, $DEGEN, $ANON, $FREN PET, and many others, primarily linked to the Base ecosystem. The full list of tokens is available on the official Freedom Factory website.
Final Thoughts
The dGEN1 is the first mobile device specifically designed for the Ethereum blockchain and its layer-2 solutions. Key industry figures like Jesse Pollak, Vitalik Buterin, NounsDAO, and the Optimism Foundation have expressed support for the project. This smartphone represents not only a technological leap but also a unique opportunity to dive into the world of cryptocurrencies.
Many users relying on wallets on traditional smartphones know how challenging can be interacting with dApps. The hope that dGEN1 will resolve these issues has already attracted thousands of pre-orders. Being an early adopter carries some risks, but the device's innovation, the significant value of the airdrop pool, and promotional offers make it an interesting choice for those wanting to explore the future of Web3.