smallfry

How dim does the backlight go? Can it get so dim that you barely realise it is on — kind of like minimum phone brightness?

I can go dim enough that it won't be seen in the dark.

What is the experience like when typing? Could you use the phone to send messages?

I haven't sent messages as I am not using as a phone. It doesn't have sim capacity or phone/sms. Typing is as expected from other e-ink devices but you can boost certain apps.

What does the hardware feel like? It seems the CPU is pretty weak, do you feel that at all when using? What do you think the longevity would be like?

Hardware is decent. I have a Pixel 8 Pro and that definitely runs smoother, but again I'm not using it as a phone more of an outlet for reading books and comics.

Do you think a usecase like leaving the display on as a button pad with a bunch of shortcuts would be a workable usecase?

Not sure what the usecase is here but I have mine shut off after 4 hours of nonuse. My display turns off after 5.

Can the customisable sidebutton be programmed to do literally anything? Like could I link it to a Tasker shortcut or something?

I recall someone attempting this but it's been finicky. The screen unlock is fine in my use case.

I’ve noticed that people say the settings are rather limited compared to normal android? Has that limited you in any way, are things like DNS and VPN still usable?

I've been able to customize my DNS and VPN without much hassle.

Hope that helps.

I think the good thing is you can disable some of the features whereas apps like WhatsApp force it for all. Or you can use something more customizable like Plus Messenger.

Does this mean 2FA can be enabled now? Had this previously but ran into issues.

I think what you're describing is Songza and it was great as a service. 8Tracks has been pretty decent as well.

This comment is so true.

Just got the update last night. Seems a bit snappier.

Yes, that is one of the clocks for Sony. Looks like the Sony Xperia V or Sony Xperia 1 V.

This reminds me of Auto Awesome feature they had before with a bit more of polish.

Infinity & Beyond

Fair, I just had not seen an announcement that development was stopping and just thought it was getting slower updates.

Throwing in a recommendation as well. Loved the sci-fi references they had to a few classic sci-fi films.

Thanks, just checked for update and I am installing now!