The Mudita Pure, for those unfamiliar with it, is a mobile phone that features an E-Ink display. It hearkens back to an era when basic phones were the norm and smartphones were still considered futuristic. The E-Ink display contributes to a gentle and calming viewing experience. However, one may wonder if the Pure holds any appeal in the present day.
Before delving into that, it may be beneficial to gain an understanding of Mudita. Headquartered in Poland, Mudita is a technology company with a unique approach. Rather than solely developing devices for consumer use, their primary objective is to introduce products that not only meet human needs but also enhance our existence on Earth. To achieve this, their devices are crafted to enrich our lives by enabling us to concentrate on what truly matters to us without becoming distracted.
Style and Build
The Mudita Pure is a meticulously designed device with softly rounded edges, making it a delight to hold. It evokes a sense of nostalgia reminiscent of the classic Nokia feature phones, albeit with the distinguishing feature of an e-paper display. The inclusion of a replaceable battery, accessible by removing the rear cover, further harks back to the phones of yesteryears. Similar to traditional feature phones renowned for their extended battery life, the Mudita Pure is expected to endure several weeks on a single charge of its 1600 mAh battery.
The e-paper display is seamlessly integrated with the bezel, positioned slightly below the surface. Notably, a sim-card tray, resembling those found in recent smartphones, is located on the left side, eliminating the need to remove the back cover and dislodge the battery for insertion, a common practice with most feature phones. Standard components such as the earpiece at the top and the microphone at the bottom are also present.
At the bottom, the USB-C port is flanked by the speaker and the 3.5mm headphone jack. Positioned on the left side are the volume up and down buttons, while the Power button rests on the top. Additionally, the top houses a flashlight capable of emitting both white and sunset yellow light. The latter, conducive to melatonin secretion in the brain, supports improved quality sleep. Though the need for a flashlight may not be constant, Mudita has thoughtfully provided a feature that minimizes negative impact on the brain.
A slider button positioned on the left facilitates the selection of three phone states, each directly influencing mental health. The "connected" mode ensures network connectivity, while the "Do Not Disturb" mode limits online visibility. The "Offline" setting completely severs external connections, aligning with the company's encouragement to prioritize self-care and meaningful personal connections.
User Experience
Using the Mudita Pure evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of a bygone era. In contrast to the prevalent touchscreen-enabled smartphones of today, the Mudita Pure embodies the classic feature phone of the 90s. While feature phones still exist, they have been overshadowed by the widespread use of smartphones.
The primary mode of interaction with the Pure is through the set of keys located beneath the display. As a device primarily designed for calling, the numerical keys take precedence over alphabets and symbols. Placing a call is straightforward, requiring the user to simply dial the desired number. However, composing text messages can be cumbersome, as it necessitates pressing a single key multiple times to input specific characters.
The Pure is equipped with Bluetooth but lacks Wi-Fi connectivity. However, Mudita has stated that the phone can function as a data modem, enabling tethering via a USB C cable. An interesting feature of the Pure is its front-lit display, providing pleasant illumination. Additionally, it offers a dark mode for users who prefer it. The keypad is also backlit, facilitating operation in low-light conditions.
In terms of pre-installed applications, the Pure includes only three: Phone, Messages, and an Alarm Clock. Under the Tools section, users have access to Notes and Calculator. Notably, the device also features a Meditation function, allowing users to indulge in soothing music for a specified duration. This aligns with Mudita's core philosophy, which is evident across its product range.
Furthermore, the Pure incorporates a Harman Kardon speaker. While the audio quality is satisfactory, the volume levels may not meet user expectations. Fortunately, Bluetooth support enables users to connect compatible headphones or speakers for an enhanced listening experience.
Conclusion
Mudita's release of this phone at this time demonstrates their strong commitment to creating a stress-free environment for individuals. The slider button on the right, used for selecting the connected modes, symbolizes the primary purpose of the phone. The overarching goal has been to develop a device that is equally beneficial for both the eyes and the mind and soul. Did Mudita achieve this goal? The answer is both affirmative and negative.
On the positive side, the phone allows users to stay partially connected or go completely offline as desired. Additionally, the ultra-low SAR value ensures minimal exposure to electromagnetic radiation. However, it lacks several features, which may lead one to reconsider whether the Pure can fulfill the basic purposes one would expect from a feature phone, if not a smartphone. Furthermore, the high price tag significantly limits the phone's appeal.
Source: goodereader