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Comment by RegW | Hacker News Reader

I'm a bit confused about if it does calls. It doesn't mention it for most of the page, but then says:

> DIY Phone

> Use the Comet and the Linux stack for calling*, messaging and mobile data as an alternate to your walled and closed smartphone. Contribute to the Linux ecosystem for mobiles.

So I guess this means it can, but it's not supported and you need to contribute the software. So perhaps it has the hardware, and perhaps it might work.

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Without any mention of 5G capability, I'm forced to assume this doesn't have it.

Or course you can attach a USB stick with a 5G modem in it. To be fair, this makes things really difficult. Not all modems support all bands. Different countries use different 5g bands, etc

Creator here

We are currently testing with LTE modem (Quectel EM05). We are yet to test with 5G Modems but similar sized 3042 (M.2) are available albeit expensive.

So is the LTE modem included ? Or would I need to buy it later ?

I'd still probably carry a main phone, but this could be a cool backup

The LTE modem will be available on the Pledge Manager. We are currently testing with Quectel EM05, works really well - calling, messaging, data all have been tested. PlaMo dialer app already works, there is a demo somewhere on the KS page. We need some time to design the internal flex pcb antennas but provisions have been made already.

Also, you are free to bring your own modem too - and only opt for the antennas pre-assembled in your unit.

Esim or physical SIM ?

You've pretty much sold me on the device, but I might wait for retail.

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