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A vintage telephone can announce the time when you lift its handset: a retained handset switch signals an Arduino Nano 33 IoT, which tells a DFPlayer Mini MP3 Player module to play prerecorded time audio. The result is a working novelty, not a more convenient way to check the clock.
How does the talking-clock telephone work?
The handset lift is the trigger. Inside the phone, a switch that detects when the handset is picked up is kept and connected to an Arduino Nano 33 IoT. When the switch changes state, the Arduino commands a DFPlayer Mini MP3 Player module to play the appropriate prerecorded audio file through the retained handset speaker.
In the build described by Hackster News, most of the telephone’s original internal electronics are removed. The handset speaker and pickup-detection switch remain; the Arduino and audio module provide the new behavior. The DFPlayer Mini’s role is to play audio stored as files, rather than synthesize spoken time on its own.
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- Vintage corded telephone: the enclosure and handset provide the familiar phone form. The exact donor-phone model is not identified; the enclosure is described as resembling a Sears telephone from the late 1970s or early 1980s.
- Arduino Nano 33 IoT: detects the handset switch event and controls playback.
- DFPlayer Mini MP3 Player module: plays the prerecorded audio files.
- Handset speaker and pickup switch: retained from the phone and used for sound output and triggering.
The description does not specify a wiring diagram, audio-file naming scheme, power arrangement, cost, or measured reliability. Those details should not be assumed from the component list alone.
#1 Best Overall
- [Retro Design] This classic retro phone handset brings a nostalgic touch to everyday calls. Its distinctive vintage style is ideal for retro lovers and also makes a fun decorative accessory or unique gift.
- [Built-in Speaker & Microphone] Features a built-in speaker and microphone with a convenient volume slider for clear calls and easy volume adjustment. Calling and microphone functions require a direct Type-C/USB-C connection.
- [Direct Type-C/USB-C Connection Only] Designed for devices with a compatible Type-C/USB-C port. Adapters or converter cables are not supported. Lightning, 3.5mm, USB-A, or other ports used through adapters may not support calling, microphone, or answering functions.
- [Durable & Comfortable Design] Made from durable ABS material with an ergonomic curved grip for comfortable use during calls. The spiral cable adds a classic telephone look while keeping the handset practical for everyday use.
- [Unique Retro Gift] A fun choice for vintage enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys distinctive phone accessories. Suitable for birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, home offices, desks, photo props, and other special occasions.
What happens when you lift the handset?
- Lift the handset. The phone’s switch changes state and indicates that the handset has been picked up.
- Let the Arduino respond. The Nano 33 IoT detects the switch event and sends a playback command to the DFPlayer Mini.
- Hear the prerecorded time audio. The module plays the relevant file through the telephone handset speaker.
The project description establishes that prerecorded files convey the current time, but does not explain how the files are generated or updated. It therefore does not establish whether this particular build keeps time itself, receives updates, or relies on another method.
Is this a practical replacement for checking a clock?
No. Hackster News presents it as a whimsical project undertaken for the fun of making it, rather than as a practical clock. Lifting a handset and waiting for an announcement is less convenient than glancing at a clock. The appeal is the retro interaction: a familiar phone action produces a spoken response.
Rank #2
- 📞【Reduce Radiation & Keep Your Face Clear】Hold the retro phone handset instead of your phone. This retro receiver keeps the device away from your head, helping reduce exposure to mobile radiation. No more hot screen pressed against your cheek. No more oily phone face. No more breakouts along your jawline. Ideal for long calls, pregnant women, kids, and anyone who spends hours on the phone every day.
- 🔌【Plug In and Talk — No Charging, No Delay】Retro handset for cell phones with a USB-C connector works with iPhone 15/16/17 series, Android phones, iPad, and Mac. No Bluetooth pairing. No battery to charge. No audio lag during video calls or gaming. Just plug it in and start talking. Please confirm your device has a USB-C port before ordering.
- 💪【Ergonomic Grip — Cradle It on Your Shoulder】This phone receiver features a curved handle and a lightweight body designed for long conversations. Tuck it between your shoulder and ear to keep both hands free for typing, note-taking, or multitasking. Comfortable, hands-free talking for as long as the call lasts.
- 🎙️【Clear Sound with Built-In Volume Control】A high-quality speaker and microphone deliver clear voice and reduce background noise. The built-in volume buttons let you adjust audio instantly without touching your phone. No more “can you hear me now?” — just smooth, natural conversation.
- 🎁【Vintage Style That Works as Decor and as a Gift】The matte finish and classic silhouette turn your desk into a retro office setup. It’s a conversation piece, a nostalgic accessory, and a genuinely useful tool for calls, Zoom meetings, or gaming. A thoughtful gift for anyone who loves long chats, retro tech, or practical desk upgrades.
Talking-clock telephone services once existed in many areas, but Hackster News says they have become almost completely obsolete. This project recreates that kind of interaction locally, using a modified phone and electronics rather than a telephone service.
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The published description identifies the Arduino Nano 33 IoT, DFPlayer Mini MP3 Player module, retained speaker, and handset switch. It does not give the donor phone’s verified make or model, or report the build’s accuracy, cost, power draw, or long-term reliability. Those figures cannot be inferred from the parts named.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Please verify all included components after opening the package. Reach out via Amazon message for any support needs.〖Classic Design, High Quality 〗This red classic landline phone is built by Metal base and ABS materials, with Twice Injected large buttons, makes it well operate in most demanding environment and keeps working for long time in school, home, office and popular from 1980s.
- 〖Powerful Features, Easy Installation〗The old school desk phone works Without External Power, just need plug the telephone line into LINE port. Long handset cord (144 inches) and Long extension line (180 inches) together with Perfect Weight, it can well fit any table. So you can freely make and answer calls in long distance.
- 〖Never Miss Any Call 〗The vintage desk telephone owns comfortable ear cup and red indicator, which will auto flash when there is call, helps you Never Miss Any Important Calls.
- 〖Hearing Aid, Gift for Seniors〗The old fashioned corded desk landline telephone enjoys classic design, large buttons and Hearing Compatible handset, so this basic desk phone is good choice for Elder Persons, who are hard of hearing or not used to operating cell phone. Good gift choice for Elder, Grandparents and Parents.
- 〖Backup Emergency Telephone 〗 This old corded analog phone can work well with different telephone system WITHOUT Adapter. Beside, it's red vintage telephone, so it can be used as Backup Emergency Telephone.
Rank #4
- High-Quality Audio: This retro telephone handset features a built-in high-sensitivity microphone and a high-quality speaker. The microphone utilizes noise-cancellation technology to effectively filter out ambient noise, ensuring clear, static-free conversations so the person on the other end can hear you distinctly, even in noisy environments. The speaker delivers clear, rich sound, making it ideal for both calls and media playback
- Retro-Style Design: Crafted from ABS material, this retro phone handset comes in a variety of vibrant colors—such as blue, pink, and classic red—to suit diverse aesthetic preferences. It serves as both a practical mobile phone accessory and a stylish desktop decoration
- Ergonomic Design: This retro telephone handset features an ergonomic design that offers a comfortable grip and balanced weight distribution. Its curved shape contours to the face, not only optimizing sound transmission during calls but also enhancing overall calling comfort
- Seamless Connectivity: Connect directly via the Type-C interface—no Bluetooth pairing required. Enjoy a true plug-and-play experience without worrying about battery life; the device automatically switches to handset mode, making your communication both stylish and efficient
- Versatility and Practicality: Beyond basic calling capabilities, it offers a range of practical features. For instance, it supports one-touch answering and ending of calls, ensuring quick and convenient operation. Whether for long-distance conversations or casual daily chats, the adjustable volume control allows you to customize your calling experience to your liking
Rank #3
- High-Quality Audio: This retro telephone handset features a built-in high-sensitivity microphone and a high-quality speaker. The microphone utilizes noise-cancellation technology to effectively filter out ambient noise, ensuring clear, static-free conversations so the person on the other end can hear you distinctly, even in noisy environments. The speaker delivers clear, rich sound, making it ideal for both calls and media playback
- Retro-Style Design: Crafted from ABS material, this retro phone handset comes in a variety of vibrant colors—such as blue, pink, and classic red—to suit diverse aesthetic preferences. It serves as both a practical mobile phone accessory and a stylish desktop decoration
- Ergonomic Design: This retro telephone handset features an ergonomic design that offers a comfortable grip and balanced weight distribution. Its curved shape contours to the face, not only optimizing sound transmission during calls but also enhancing overall calling comfort
- Seamless Connectivity: Connect directly via the Type-C interface—no Bluetooth pairing required. Enjoy a true plug-and-play experience without worrying about battery life; the device automatically switches to handset mode, making your communication both stylish and efficient
- Versatility and Practicality: Beyond basic calling capabilities, it offers a range of practical features. For instance, it supports one-touch answering and ending of calls, ensuring quick and convenient operation. Whether for long-distance conversations or casual daily chats, the adjustable volume control allows you to customize your calling experience to your liking
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