Light Phone III: Disconnect to Reconnect?

03/13/2025 Mobile Technology

Okay, folks, let's talk about disconnecting. In today's hyper-connected world, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the constant stream of notifications, updates, and social media demands. Enter Light, a company dedicated to helping us reclaim our time and attention.

Light is about to launch the Light Phone III on March 27th. If you're not familiar, Light makes minimalist phones designed to reduce distractions and encourage a more intentional approach to technology. Think of it as a "digital detox" device.

What's new with the Light Phone III?

While staying true to its roots, the Light Phone III brings some key upgrades:

• A stunning 3.92-inch AMOLED Display: Say goodbye to the black and white e-paper screen of the previous model. This AMOLED display promises a more vibrant and responsive visual experience, but still designed to be less stimulating than your typical smartphone screen.
• Camera: Yes, you can now capture moments with your Light Phone!
• NFC Chip: Get ready for future payment options directly from your device.
• Improved Repairability: This is a big one! Light has focused on making the Light Phone III easier to repair, with access to the battery, screen, and USB port. This means a longer lifespan for your device and less e-waste.

Core Features Remain:

Don't worry, the Light Phone III still offers all the essential features you need, like calls, texts, navigation, alarms, hotspots, calendar, and music playback. It's about providing the tools you *need* without the addictive distractions of social media and endless apps.

Design and Usability:

Light emphasizes usability and performance. The new phone is designed to be roughly the width of an iPhone, making it comfortable to hold and use. The matte glass screen aims to retain some of the unique feel of the e-ink display, offering a less glossy and more tactile experience.

How to Use It?

You have options! You can use the unlocked Light Phone III as your primary phone, or keep it as a secondary device for those times when you want to disconnect and be fully present. Light also offers its own data plans, starting at $30 per month for 1GB of data.

The Price Tag:

The upgrades come at a cost. The Light Phone III is priced at $599 for a limited time, and will eventually increase to $799. This is a significant jump from the previous model's $299 price point, so consider if the new features align with your needs and budget.

Light Phone III Specs:

• Dimensions: 106mm x 71.5mm x 12mm
• Weight: 124g
• Network: 5G + 4G LTE
• Display: 3.92″ AMOLED (1080×1240)
• Screen: Matte Glass
• Port: USB-C 2.0
• Camera: 12m default image output (50m rear sensor / 8m front sensor)
• SIM: Nano SIM + E-SIM
• Memory: 128GB / 6GB RAM
• Battery: 1800 mAh
• Sound: 2 mics (noise cancellation), 2 stereo speakers
• Features: GPS, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, Fingerprint ID
• Materials: Aluminum, Glass, SORPLAS Recycled Plastic
• Chipset: Qualcomm SM 4450
• IP Rating: IP 54

The Verdict?

The Light Phone III is an intriguing option for anyone looking to reduce their reliance on smartphones and reclaim their attention. The upgrades, particularly the AMOLED display and camera, make it a more versatile device, while still maintaining its minimalist ethos. However, the higher price point might be a barrier for some. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal needs and your commitment to a more intentional digital lifestyle.