In today's digital age, security and privacy are more critical than ever, and the $20,000 Solarin phone by Sirin Labs promises to deliver unparalleled protection. But what justifies such a steep price tag? Let's delve into the features and technology behind this extravagant piece of machinery.
The first thing that catches the eye about the Solarin phone is its unique, curved screen, crafted from Corning Gorilla Glass 4. This durable screen has been drop-tested to ASTM and IEC standards, ensuring that it can withstand significant impacts. The front camera is a wide-angle lens supported by a concealed front-facing flash, perfect for video calls in low-light environments. The 5.5-inch display, custom-made for Sirin Labs, provides a vibrant viewing experience with its 16 LED backlights, ensuring rich and
distinct colors.
The Solarin's chassis is made from a metal matrix composite, known for its exceptional durability. The sides of the phone feature Swiss-made, handcrafted deco panels, adding a touch of elegance to its robust structure. Under the hood, the phone is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 810 processor with a 2GHz octa-core 64-bit CPU, making it one of the fastest and most powerful smartphones available. The audio quality is also top-notch, with crystal-clear sound up to 90 decibels SPL, and bass-boosted speakers for an immersive listening experience. Additionally, the phone boasts five antennas and 24 LTE bands, optimized for global coverage.
The Solarin's back cover is uniquely designed with a carbon leather finish, contributing to its sophisticated look. While the standard storage is 128GB, which may seem modest compared to other high-end phones, the true value of the Solarin lies in its security features. The back cover includes a security shield that creates an isolated environment for making secure calls and sending encrypted messages. This shield ensures that only the owner, authenticated by the fingerprint sensor, can access the phone's secure functions.
One of the standout features is the security switch, marked by a diamond, which activates a private system. This mode disables all sensors, turning the phone into a basic device capable of making calls and sending texts with military-grade security. Only pre-approved contacts can communicate with you in this mode, ensuring complete privacy. The Solarin also offers FIPS-certified calling and messaging services with 256-bit AES encryption, providing end-to-end secure communication.
In comparison to other luxury phones, such as the Vertu Signature Cobra, which costs $360,000 and offers similar features to an
apple iphone 5 with additional embellishments like 439 rubies and emerald eyes, the Solarin stands out by providing substantial security enhancements. Even the most expensive phone in the world, the Falcon Supernova iPhone 6 Pink Diamond Edition, priced at $48.5 million, cannot match the security features of the Solarin, despite its lavish 24-karat gold and pink diamond embellishments.
Sirin Labs has also announced a more affordable model, the Finney, aimed at integrating blockchain technology into smartphones. The Finney will operate on Shield OS, an open-source system based on Android, supporting blockchain apps like crypto wallets and secure exchanges. This move demonstrates Sirin Labs' commitment to combining advanced security with cutting-edge technology.
Founded in 2013, Sirin Labs raised $25 million in seed money, followed by another $72 million in 2016, to develop the world's most secure smartphone. Despite the Solarin's limited sales, with only about 700 to 750 devices sold, Sirin Labs remains optimistic about the future, particularly with the upcoming Finney.
The Solarin is not just a smartphone; it is a statement piece for those who value privacy and security above all else. Its combination of luxury materials, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled security features makes it a worthy investment for the elite few who can afford it. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a privacy advocate, the Solarin phone offers a glimpse into the future of secure, high-end mobile devices.
