Stable smartphone from Germany without Google
The second generation of the outdoor mobile from Volla is stable and prioritises data security and privacy.
A smartphone with Android without any Google services. No cloud, encrypted data, curated apps - and all "Made in Germany". The German start-up "Hallo Welt System" has been taking an alternative approach with its Volla Phones for three years.
The new X23 is now available. The smartphone, which costs around 540 francs or euros, not only relies on a secure operating system, but is also designed to be particularly robust. It is resistant in accordance with military standard MIL-STD-810H.
However, you shouldn't put too much stock in this standard, as we have already described in an article. The X23 is simply built more robustly than other smartphones. More important and meaningful is the IP68 standard. The X23 is dustproof and can withstand complete immersion in water. Up to one metre under water for one hour.
What you can expect from the Volla X23
These are the other technical specifications of the Volla X23:
- MediaTek Helio G99 processor
- 6 GB RAM, 128 GB memory (expandable with micro SD card up to 1 TB)
- 6.1-inch touchscreen, 1560 x 720 pixels, 550 nits brightness
- 48 MP main camera, 8 MP wide angle, 16 MP selfie cam
- Two SIM card slots plus micro SD slot
- 5000 mAh battery (replaceable without tools), fast charging up to 30 watts, wireless charging 15 watts
- Headphone connection
- 270 gram weight
The fact that the German manufacturer does everything a little differently is also evident from the fact that it specifies radiation values, which almost nobody else does: 0.625 W/kg on the head, 1.456 W/kg on the body. And this is despite the fact that this SAR value is not particularly good according to comparison websites
Source: Volla
No Google services, but Android as the basis
However, the focus is on something else anyway, namely the Volla OS - an operating system that particularly protects privacy and personal data. Although it is based on Android, Google services, which are known to collect a lot of data, have been banned from the device.
This gives you the advantage of being able to use many Android apps. However, you can use the X23 completely anonymously without a user account. You also don't need a cloud. The manufacturer has replaced the basic functions, such as the phone app or address book, with apps with open source code. This allows Volla Phone or anyone else to check whether the apps are secure and handle data responsibly.
The manufacturer also wants to do without cloud services wherever possible. For example, navigation with offline maps is integrated. And other trustworthy open source apps are recommended. There are also two app stores: one with alternative apps and one for the anonymous installation of apps from the Google Store with a warning about which trackers they use.
Data security also includes detailed settings and a secure browser. There is also a pre-installed VPN service from Hide.me that you can use without logging in.
Source: Volla
A second operating system for experts
The models sold in our shop have Volla OS installed, but there is also a version with Ubuntu Touch. This operating system for mobile phones is based on Linux, so you can't use the usual Android apps on it
So it's certainly something for experts who are prepared to look for alternatives or sometimes do without. In return, they have full control and pure open source software. Incidentally, you can also install other operating systems on the Volla Phoned with Volla OS and choose which one you want to use at startup.
Source: Volla
Intriguingly, Volla is also focussing on lifestyle with this model. For example, there is a light ring on the back that can be used as an animated display when charging the battery, as a notification for calls and messages or even as an animated light when playing music.
There is also a new voice recognition function, which works entirely without the cloud and is also based on open source code. When it comes to protecting privacy, the manufacturer is trying not to compromise - even if that might be more convenient and easier.
A detailed test will show how well this concept without Google, but with privacy, works for normal users in everyday life.
Cover photo: Volla469 people like this article
Lorenz Keller
Senior Editor
Lorenz.Keller@digitecgalaxus.chGadgets are my passion - whether you need them for the home office, for the household, for sport and pleasure or for the smart home. Or, of course, for the big hobby next to the family, namely fishing.