Want real phone privacy? This $700 handset promises it, plus a removable battery

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ZDNET’s key takeaways

• The Punkt MC03 is a privacy-first handset that runs a verified list of secure apps.
• It’s powered by AphyOS, a subscription-based operating system.
• Punkt is launching the phone in the US this Spring for $699.

Sharing data with Google and Apple offers convenience, but often at the cost of privacy and security. Third-party apps and online services can further increase your risk. To address these concerns, Punkt has launched the MC03, a smartphone built specifically to keep your data private and secure.

Powered by AphyOS, the MC03 is a mid-range device paired with a subscription-based operating system. It features a hardened codebase designed to block attacks and unauthorized access, effectively limiting your online exposure.

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The device comes integrated with trusted, privacy-focused services like Proton Mail, Calendar, Drive, and VPN. Users can source vetted applications through the App Hub, while a secondary app store allows for broader access — all under the user’s direct management and control.

To further optimize privacy, the MC03 includes an integrated VPN, such as Digital Nomad, to secure your internet connection. AphyOS (by Apostrophy) is included free for the first year; after that, it requires a $9.99 monthly subscription, though bundle deals are available.

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The hardware is manufactured in Germany and features a 120Hz OLED display, a 64MP main camera, and an IP68 rating for dust and water resistance. Notably, it includes a removable 5,200mAh battery — a rarity in modern smartphones.

The MC03 is priced at $699 and is slated for a North American launch in Spring 2026. Having tested various “distraction-free” handsets, I look forward to getting hands-on time with the MC03 at CES to see how it balances a private lifestyle with the goal of reducing mindless social media scrolling. The biggest question is whether or not it’ll be enough to pull me away from all the more things a traditional smartphone can do.