Solana’s New Crypto Phone Seeker: Features, Specs, and What to Expect

Key Takeaways

• Solana revealed its second-generation mobile phone during the Token2049 event.
• The new phone promises to improve upon the shortcomings of the first phone.
• The phone will be aggressively priced amid considerable demand.

After months of anticipation and teasers, Solana has finally lifted the veil on its second smartphone, the Solana Seeker.

The newcomer follows the Solana Saga, a device that sparked intense debate upon its release in April 2023.

Initially mocked for its steep price tag, the Saga unexpectedly found a new lease on life after the debut of BONK rewards, sending resale prices soaring up to $5,000.

Will the Solana Seeker replicate its sibling’s unlikely trajectory, or has it improved?

140,000 pre-orders across 57 countries

The second-generation phone has already raked in an impressive 140,000 pre-orders across 57 countries.

According to reports, the new Solana phone, formerly known as the “Chapter Two” project, has been a strong draw for early adopters, securing $70 million in pre-orders  and exceeding demand for its predecessor by a factor of five.

Solana has discounted the phone to $450 for a limited time as part of its launch strategy. The promotional offer, dubbed the Founder Window, will remain in effect until Sept. 21.

According to the announcement , the new phone represents a significant upgrade over its predecessor, improving key areas such as Web3 accessibility, DeFi applications, and on-device security.

Solana claims that the phone will serve as a comprehensive portal to the Web3 ecosystem, providing seamless access to DeFi services, DePIN payments, gaming, non-fungible tokens, and a range of other features.

Better Specs at a Cheaper Price?

Specs

First look

On paper, the Solana Seeker appears to have addressed some of the design and functionality criticisms that dogged its predecessor, the Solana Saga. It has improved its aesthetic and improved several features.

Additionally, the phone’s competitive pricing, at least during the initial Founder Window, is likely to further fuel its appeal.

In terms of technical specifications, the phone features a brighter display, a camera module with a 108-megapixel primary camera, and multiple storage options. Additionally, the device includes a new seed vault, a security feature designed to protect users’ sensitive crypto assets.

Decentralized Features

What sets Solana Seeker apart is its array of decentralized features, which are designed to cater to Web3 users.

Here’s a quick rundown of the features:

• Seed Vault Wallet via Solflare: Enables self-custody of tokens with a double-tap payment feature.
• Updated Solana Mobile dApp Store: Includes new reward systems for users.
• Seeker Genesis Token: A Soul-bound VIP pass for access to rewards, content, and features in the Solana ecosystem.
• Four Months of Free DePIN Coverage: Users can earn from select DePIN apps.
• AI Agents via Alethea: Users can create and use tokenized AI agents within the Seeker ecosystem.
• Exclusive Web3 Game Titles: Seeker users gain access to unique web3 games.
• Helio Airdrops: Offers cheaper airdrop options for users.

Solana Seeker Can Become the “Crypto Phone”

The tech world still recalls Marques Brownlee’s (MKBHD) scathing review of Solana’s first phone , which roundly criticized its specs and steep price tag. However, with Seeker, Solana is aiming to change minds.

History has shown that first-generation devices often hit the market with limitations and flaws.

Even Google struggled with its initial entry into hardware. The first Google Pixel phone, for instance, was marred by poor design, subpar screens, and software lag. Yet Google chose to focus on a single strength—its camera—which ended up being a game-changer. Today, the Pixel is a household name, and its camera is one of its key selling points.

Solana is following a similar playbook. Instead of trying to outmuscle the competition with a spec-heavy phone, the company is betting on an integrated Web3 experience that sets it apart.

While the first phone had its share of shortcomings, the second-generation Solana Seeker has made significant improvements, from a sleeker design to better cameras and screens, all at a lower price point.

About the Author

Prashant Jha

Prashant Jha is a crypto-journalist focused on the US and UK markets, his interests lie in blockchain technology and crypto adoption across emerging economies.

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