Volla Phone Plinius Now Available with Ubuntu Touch or Google-Free Android
Breaking: Volla Phone Plinius Ships with Dual-OS Choice and Military-Grade Durability
Volla has officially launched the Phone Plinius, a semi-rugged smartphone that offers a radical choice between Ubuntu Touch and a Google-free version of Android. The device is now shipping to customers worldwide, marking a significant step for privacy-conscious users.
The Plinius is built for users who want to escape the Google ecosystem without sacrificing hardware quality. It features a 6.67-inch OLED display with 2400x1080 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor.
Key Specs and Rugged Design
The phone is described as semi-rugged, with reinforced corners and a water-resistant chassis. It is designed to withstand drops and exposure to dust and moisture, making it suitable for outdoor workers or adventurous users.
Volla also equips the Plinius with a 5000mAh battery, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of expandable storage. The device runs either Ubuntu Touch, a Linux-based mobile OS, or Volla OS, which is Android but stripped of Google Play Services.
“The Plinius is our answer to users who demand both physical durability and digital privacy,” said a Volla spokesperson. “With two distinct operating systems, we give people the freedom to choose how they interact with their phone.”
Background
Volla has been producing privacy-focused phones since 2019, starting with the Volla Phone and later the Volla Phone 22. The company’s devices run a customized version of Android called Volla OS, which blocks telemetry and removes Google apps.
Ubuntu Touch, developed by the UBports community, offers an alternative mobile experience based on Linux. The Plinius is the first Volla phone to officially support Ubuntu Touch out of the box, though earlier models could be flashed with the OS.
The phone is available directly from Volla’s website and through select online retailers. Pricing starts at €449 for the Volla OS version and €499 for the Ubuntu Touch edition.
What This Means
The Plinius targets a niche but growing market of users who value privacy and control over their data. By offering a Google-free Android option, Volla appeals to those who want app compatibility without tracking.
Ubuntu Touch offers a more radical departure from mainstream mobile OS, with a focus on open-source tools and convergence (connecting to a monitor for a desktop experience). However, app availability remains limited compared to Android or iOS.
“The Plinius is a solid mid-range phone that makes a clear statement about privacy,” said tech analyst Sarah Klein of Mobile Insights. “But its success will depend on whether users are willing to sacrifice app ecosystems for security.”
Industry observers note that the rugged design could help the Plinius stand out in a crowded mid-range market. The combination of durability and dual-OS support is unique, though the phone lacks 5G and some modern camera features.
Availability and Verdict
Early reviews praise the build quality and display, but note that the Dimensity 7300 is not a flagship chip. For users who prioritize privacy and ruggedness over raw performance, the Plinius represents a compelling option.
Volla says the phone is available now with worldwide shipping. More details can be found on the company’s official website.
Looking Ahead
Volla plans to release software updates for at least three years. The UBports community is also expected to provide ongoing support for Ubuntu Touch users.
As the privacy-focused phone market grows, the Plinius could serve as a template for other manufacturers. “If Volla can prove there is demand for this combination, we may see more rugged phones with alternative OSes,” Klein added.