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The WiPhone is a Wi-Fi VoIP phone designed as a hackable maker platform—not a conventional cellular smartphone. It has no cellular radio, so it needs Wi-Fi and a VoIP setup to make calls. Its Kickstarter campaign ran from March 26 to April 16, 2019, raising $90,340 against a $40,000 goal from 673 backers.
What the WiPhone Kickstarter funded
HackEDA presented the WiPhone as a portable, pre-packaged development platform shaped like a phone: owners could modify its hardware, repurpose it and edit its firmware rather than use a locked-down consumer smartphone. Kickstarter lists the 21-day campaign as running from March 26 through April 16, 2019. It raised $90,340 against its $40,000 goal, with 673 backers. These figures describe the historical campaign, not current sales or inventory. Kickstarter campaign page.
The project’s appeal was the combination of a usable handheld form and accessible hardware connections. The maker described the WiPhone as a minimal Wi-Fi phone and emphasized its editable firmware and I/O for experimentation. WiPhone project site.
How calls work—and whether you need a SIM
Do I need a SIM card?
No. The WiPhone has no cellular radio, and the campaign FAQ says it does not require a SIM. It connects over Wi-Fi and uses VoIP, or voice over internet protocol. Without Wi-Fi and a configured VoIP service or account, it does not provide cellular calling or coverage. Kickstarter campaign FAQ.
#1 Best Overall
- Make more natural and life-like calls with Polycom HD Voice
- 2. 8” color display: an engaging experience offering visual information at a glance
- Two Gigabit Ethernet ports offer cost savings and performance benefits
- USB port enables users to move data around more quickly
- Integrates with more than 60 industry leading call control platforms
How do I make calls if I’m not paying anyone?
The campaign described free VoIP accounts for receiving calls and contacting other users of VoIP apps. Calling regular telephone numbers may require a paid VoIP service; ordinary phone calls are not universally free. Providers set their own availability, terms and prices, which can change. The campaign’s historical cost estimates should not be treated as current offers. Kickstarter campaign FAQ.
Why it is a maker platform, not a typical smartphone
The WiPhone is built around an ESP32-based system programmable in Arduino, with a 20-pin programmable header on the rear and other connections that make it easier to experiment with hardware. Its phone-like controls and screen package those development possibilities in a portable device. That design suits hackers and makers who want to change firmware or connect projects; it does not, by itself, make the WiPhone a drop-in replacement for a modern smartphone.
Rank #2
- High-performance SIP cordless phone system
- 1.8" 128 x 160 TFT color screen with intuitive user interface
- Up to 20 simultaneous calls
- Up to 10 DECT cordless handsets
- Up to 10 SIP accounts
The maker publishes these specifications for the device. They are product-page figures, not independent measurements. WiPhone specifications.
| Feature | Maker-published specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.4-inch, 320 × 240 |
| Wireless | 802.11 b/g/n Wi-Fi |
| Processor and programming | ESP32-based system; programmable in Arduino |
| Controls | 25-button keypad |
| Connections and storage | Micro-USB for charging, serial communication and firmware updates; 3.5 mm audio jack; internal microSD slot |
| Expansion | 20-pin programmable rear header |
| Battery | 900 mAh |
| Dimensions and weight | 120 × 50 × 12.5 mm; 120 g |
The maker claims up to eight hours of battery life under normal use without accessories. That is a manufacturer claim, not an independently verified runtime result.
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1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesRank #3
- SMART CALL BLOCKER — STOPS ROBOCALLS BEFORE THEY RING — Automatically filters out robocalls on the first call — no setup required. One-touch blacklist any number on the spot. Block directory holds up to 1,000 entries
- BLUETOOTH CONNECT TO CELL — Pair your smartphone and make or receive mobile calls through either handset. Eliminates cellular dead zones at home by routing calls through the base
- 2 HANDSETS, ONE PHONE JACK — 2.4" COLOR DISPLAY — Both handsets connect from a single base. Extra-large color LCD with high-contrast text, lighted keypad, and status icons for voicemail, battery, and missed calls
- DIGITAL ANSWERING MACHINE + CALLER ID ANNOUNCE — Records up to 22 minutes of messages. The handset speaks the caller's name aloud — screen calls from anywhere in your home without touching the phone
- AUDIO ASSIST & LONG-RANGE DECT 6.0 — Audio Assist boosts call volume and reduces background noise mid-call. DECT 6.0 with advanced antenna delivers interference-free sound up to 1,000 ft through walls and floors
What LoRa adds on compatible versions
Some WiPhone configurations include LoRa hardware, which the maker says can send text messages directly between compatible devices without an internet connection. This is a separate, version-specific capability; it should not be assumed to be present on every WiPhone. The project describes it as useful for off-grid or third-party-independent messaging, but no independent range test is established here. WiPhone project site.
What happened after the Kickstarter
In a November 18, 2019 update, creator Ben wrote, “We are shipping now, just slowly.” He also described software rough edges at that time: noticeable packet loss without packet-loss concealment, an interface that needed refinement and some expected phone features that were still missing. Those observations apply to the software as reported in 2019, not necessarily to a later release. Kickstarter project updates.
Rank #4
- DP720 handset has a dedicated MWI LED, for notifications like voicemails and missed calls.
- Included Components: Handset unit, universal power supply, charger cradle, belt clip, 2 batteries, Quick Start Guide
In a January 26, 2024 post, the maker said phones were in stock and shipping continuously, that almost all crowdfunded orders had shipped, and that software work was continuing. That is a dated statement, not proof of stock today. Although the current product page says “Now shipping,” current inventory, delivery terms and support have not been independently verified. WiPhone product page · WiPhone blog.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who the WiPhone is—and is not—for
- A fit for: makers interested in Arduino-programmable ESP32 hardware, exposed expansion connections and experimenting with a phone-shaped device.
- Not a cellular substitute: it cannot connect to cellular networks or provide coverage on its own, so it should not be relied on as a cellular phone or emergency backup.
- Calls depend on setup: VoIP requires Wi-Fi and an account or service; reaching ordinary phone numbers may involve a paid provider.
- Check the exact configuration: LoRa messaging is described for LoRa-equipped versions, not all units.
The project page quotes Nathan Seidle, identified there as SparkFun founder: “This is a great cross over between what people know (phones) and what people really want to do (hack).” WiPhone project site.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Brand New - Individually Boxed
- Black Color
- Also compatible with Mitel 5212 and 5224 Phones
- Official The VoIP Lounge brand - Look for The VoIP Lounge logo on the box
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
