The $10 “Anti-iPhone”
In some circles, the iPhone backlash began long before the device was launched, still in the fuzzy spyshot blog rumor stages. If you’re looking for a more official milestone, perhaps the launch of the self-proclaimed “anti-iPhone” will do the trick.
That’s exactly how hardware manufacturer, Hop-on is positioning their new $10 HOP1800. The pre-paid GSM phone can be used with more than 40 carriers in the US, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and the company’s own Graffiti Wireless. Hop-on isn’t exactly forthcoming with the features, because, well, there aren’t really any–this is a $10 phone likely to be sold in drug and convenience stores by the manufacture of “the world’s first disposable cell phone,” after all.
So, what exactly do you get for your ten George Washingtons? A 16 Midi ringer, embedded vibration, and four hours of talk time. There’s no display on the thing, but for those truly seeking an anti-iPhone, Hop-on offers the following reassurance, “[the] A tactile numeric keypad with Braille markings, offers reassuring buttons that touch screen cell phone users are longing for.”
Somewhere Steve Jobs is softly weeping atop a gigantic pile of money.
