Micro-Phone: World’s Thinnest GSM Phone?

As our smartphones are growing stronger and capable of running more and more programs and applications, they are getting larger as well, some of them already being close to the size of an eBook reader.

That makes it rather uncomfortable to use them for their initial purpose as phones, so how about trying  something that goes back to the basics? This Indiegogo project called the Micro-Phone, does just that.

Touted to be the world’s thinnest GSM phone, the Micro-Phone is an elegant, discreet device that can be easily carried around anywhere, being about the size of a credit card.

More specifically, this mini-phone is 3.3 inches long and 2.2 inches wide and only about 0.2 inch thick. It weighs 1.4 oz. An average card is about the same size, although indeed thinner, but that still makes the Micro-Phone incredibly small and thin and easy to fit inside your wallet.

Developed by an Australian start-up, the Micro-Phone is currently available in two models: the basic version and one equipped with a locator. The locator can help you locate your child, best friend or partner anywhere and anytime. The system uses mobile tower triangulation and is able to pinpoint the phone’s exact location, which users will be able to see by logging in to the accompanying “Locate Me” application.

The Micro-Phone will work with any GSM SIM card that supports 850/900/1800/1900 frequency bands. Those who own nano or micro SIM cards will be provided with an adapter. Other features include an LCD screen of 1.8 inches, full-size keypad, functions such as calculator and address book and others. The system is powered by a lithium ion battery that can last about 21 days.

The crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo is designed to help the developers raise $50,000 in order to start mass production. Backers can receive the basic model for a $39 pledge and a locator model for $69. Shipping is expected to begin in August or September.

[Images via Indiegogo & Micro-phone]