As a person considering a LP

[sleeplost]

Hello, I wanted to introduce myself as someone who's been considering a LP since I first saw the LP2 a couple years ago.

It's fair to say that I'm properly addicted to my smartphone and the internet overall and am trying to move towards more lo-fi ways of interacting with technology. Just recently I was feeling nostalgic about forums, and I'd like to spend as little time on Reddit/Discord as possible, so I'm grateful this exists.

A co-worker of mine had a LP2 that they'll use from time to time and I actually love how unconventional and slow the e-ink screen is. There's something about technology today that just makes me want to go fast or act in a conditioned way rather than stopping to think. That said, I would like the potential conveniences that the LP3 could have, like contactless payments and video calling.

Like many others who have family overseas, I think I'd need WhatsApp support-- or at the very least RCS support--for this to be my daily phone. I'm considering buying a used LP2 and using WhatsApp on my laptop to determine if that's good enough

[ShinRyusei]

Just recently I was feeling nostalgic about forums, and I'd like to spend as little time on Reddit/Discord as possible, so I'm grateful this exists.

Welcome! This is why we decided to buckle down and make the forums, so I'm once again glad it can service people like you!

Like many others who have family overseas, I think I'd need WhatsApp support-- or at the very least RCS support--for this to be my daily phone. I'm considering buying a used LP2 and using WhatsApp on my laptop to determine if that's good enough

That sounds like a good idea. It doesn't hurt to try, and if it doesn't work, you can always sell it. When the LP3 adds those conveniences you're interested in, then maybe you could consider a switch.

[seth]

Welcome sleeplost!

It's good that you've recognized your addiction - that's the first step! The E-ink screen of the LPII is awesome, and I am sort of sad that it's not on the LPIII. Still, I think it'll be much better than any other phone. If you want to just take a first step, I think a common tactic is to purchase an LPII as a main phone and using your old smartphone only in the contexts you need it. That way you don't have to commit to any one thing right now, but rather just explore how it feels.

I am really hoping we get RCS at the very least. It's unfortunate it won't be present at launch.

Wish you luck on your decision and journey towards digital mindfulness!

[ronan]

Welcome sleeplost and thanks for joining!

Missing WhatsApp is definitely a challenge for most of us in the EU

I try to see it as an opportunity to gradually reduce my dependence on this service, even though group chats with WhatsApp users make it practically impossible to leave completely. I'm optimistic about what the Light Phone team might develop soon (whether through Beeper, RCS, or other solutions)!

[sleeplost]

That sounds like a good idea. It doesn't hurt to try, and if it doesn't work, you can always sell it. When the LP3 adds those conveniences you're interested in, then maybe you could consider a switch.

I think a common tactic is to purchase an LPII as a main phone and using your old smartphone only in the contexts you need it. That way you don't have to commit to any one thing right now, but rather just explore how it feels.

Thanks folks. And yes, I think this is a sound idea. Especially given that I feel the itch to buy a new, shiny LP3 now, despite not being able to afford it currently. I think that, apart from the excitement of such a meaningful launch, this might indicate a compulsive tendency I've developed since becoming more technology addicted. Pushing back against this desire, especially since the killer apps I need aren't there yet, would be wise.

Missing WhatsApp is definitely a challenge for most of us in the EU

I try to see it as an opportunity to gradually reduce my dependence on this service, even though group chats with WhatsApp users make it practically impossible to leave completely. I'm optimistic about what the Light Phone team might develop soon (whether through Beeper, RCS, or other solutions)!

As someone who has family in both the Caribbean and the EU, this is really crucial. I think--and correct me if I'm wrong--if all devices involved support RCS then this can be a new way forward that allows for relying on protocols rather than proprietary services. Beeper would allow for a lot more integrations, but I wonder if it'd be overkill. Doing one thing really well (RCS, for example) might be the sweet spot for the Light team. It'd be a lot easier to convince family and friends to switch off WhatsApp if you can basically "text message" just as seamlessly.