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Privacy Phone: Kill Switch for Cameras & Mics
6 Mar
Summary
- The Hiroh phone features physical switches to disable cameras and microphones.
- A second switch disconnects all wireless connectivity, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
- It runs on the privacy-focused EOS operating system or stock Android.
The Hiroh, a new privacy-focused Android smartphone, is set to be released in late April for $1,100. It addresses growing concerns about digital snooping with innovative hardware features. The device prominently features two physical switches: one on the left side disables cameras and microphones at the circuit level, ensuring they cannot be remotely activated. A red indicator light confirms when this privacy mode is engaged.
A second physical switch on the right side disconnects all wireless communications, functioning as a 'super Airplane Mode' by disabling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This prevents apps from leaking location data or accessing other sensors. The Hiroh also incorporates software-based privacy enhancements, including end-to-end encrypted communication through its proprietary app.
By default, the phone operates on the EOS operating system, an Android open-source alternative developed by Murena, offering strict privacy controls like tracker blocking and IP address masking via TOR. Users can opt for stock Android, retaining the hardware toggle benefits. The Hiroh boasts a 6.67-inch display, a 108MP main camera, and is powered by a Dimensity 8300 chip with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, expandable via microSD. The device will receive five years of software and security updates as per EU law.
