Virtual Smartphone App Aphone on Solana Revives Old Devices in Emerging Markets

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Jimmy Aki

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Jimmy Aki

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Jimmy has nearly 10 years of experience as a journalist and writer in the blockchain industry. He has worked with well-known publications such as Bitcoin Magazine, CCN, and Blockonomi, covering news...

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Last updated:

March 8, 2024 16:39 EST

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In a move that may help bring blockchain technology to the mainstream, a novel virtual smartphone application called the Aphone app has launched on Solana.

Aphone’s service launched on March 7 and allows users with older or less powerful devices to interact with Web3 applications and other demanding software.

How the Aphone App Overcomes Hardware Barriers

Unlike traditional smartphone apps, Aphone, which costs $20 annually,  runs on a decentralized cloud-computing infrastructure known as Aethir. By shifting the processing burden to the cloud, the Aphone app enables resource-intensive applications and games to function on outdated devices.

This cloud-based approach also makes the Aphone platform-agnostic, allowing for smooth operation across web browsers and a range of Android and Apple devices.

We’re excited to officially announce our strategic partnership with @AethirCloud 🎉#APhone’s vision of cloud smartphones on blockchain is powered by Aethir’s decentralized cloud infrastructure ☁️🌐

APhone delivers lag-free mobile #Web3 experiences ANYWHERE. No more device… pic.twitter.com/LYZpchY2xy

— APhone (@aphonelabs) March 6, 2024

Aphone’s development team targets users in emerging economies where affordable, older smartphones are common and access to fast mobile internet is expanding.

Jennifer Booze, lead for Aphone’s ecosystem growth and development, sees the virtual smartphone as an ideal way to introduce Web3 concepts and applications to the masses.

Thanks to the Solana blockchain, the Aphone app can deliver fast transactions, minimal fees, and strong security. According to Booze, the Aphone interface acts as a powerful operating system that utilizes Solana’s capabilities, facilitating actions like NFT management and decentralized application (dApp) usage.

PHONE Token and Incentivized Engagement

The Aphone ecosystem incorporates a native token, PHONE, which will underpin governance processes and offer rewards designed to boost user engagement and participation within the platform.

Aphone also links to decentralized physical infrastructure networks (DePINs) like Helium, which operates on Solana. Users can tap into these networks, potentially earning rewards for strengthening network coverage or validating transactions.