TL;DR
Punkt. introduced the MC03, a Europe-made subscription smartphone running AphyOS that separates trusted apps from general apps to give users tighter privacy controls. The device pairs hardware features like a removable battery and 120Hz OLED with curated services from partners such as Proton and Threema.
What happened
Punkt. unveiled the MC03 at CES, positioning it as the successor to the MC02 with a stronger emphasis on privacy by design and a more sustainable hardware build. The handset runs AphyOS and divides user data and apps into two distinct environments: Vault, which contains vetted, highly protected applications, and Wild Web, where any app can be installed but with visible safeguards and granular privacy controls. The MC03 ships from a Gigaset facility in Germany and includes a bank-grade Secure Element, a built-in VPN called Digital Nomad, and a Ledger feature that controls app-specific permissions and reports on carbon impact. Trusted services such as Proton Mail, Proton VPN, Proton Drive and Threema are available in the Vault. The device lists for CHF/$/€699 and includes 12 months of AphyOS; continuing the OS subscription requires a paid plan after the initial year.
Why it matters
- Shifts privacy from optional to default by isolating apps and data into protected and open zones.
- Subscription model emphasizes paying for software and services rather than monetizing user data.
- European manufacturing and claims of repairability address sustainability and supply-chain transparency.
- Partnerships with privacy-focused services (Proton, Threema) broaden the device’s secure app ecosystem.
Key facts
- Device name: Punkt. MC03; successor to the MC02.
- Operating system: AphyOS; 12 months included with the device (from Apostrophy).
- Price: CHF / $ / €699 at launch.
- Post-trial subscription: monthly CHF / $ / €9.99; multi-year bundles offered (3-year and 5-year discounts advertised).
- Manufactured in Germany at the Gigaset facility; marketed as Made in Europe.
- Dual data/app environments: Vault (vetted apps) and Wild Web (open installs with safeguards).
- Hardware highlights: 120Hz OLED HDR display, removable 5200mAh battery, IP68 rating, 64MP main camera.
- Security features include a bank-grade Secure Element and hardened code to limit background tracking.
- Built-in VPN named Digital Nomad and a Ledger tool for per-app privacy controls and a Carbon Reduction metric.
- Trusted services in the Vault include Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, Proton Drive, Proton VPN, Proton Pass and Threema.
What to watch next
- Delivery schedule: pre-orders open now; deliveries in Europe expected end of January 2026 and North America from Spring 2026 (confirmed).
- User uptake of the paid AphyOS subscription after the included 12 months (not confirmed in the source).
- Scope and volume of apps available in the curated privacy-friendly store versus the wider app access (not confirmed in the source).
Quick glossary
- Vault: A protected environment on the phone that runs vetted apps and limits data exposure by default.
- Wild Web: An open environment on the device where users can install any app, but with visible privacy safeguards and controls.
- Secure Element: A tamper-resistant hardware component used to securely store cryptographic keys and sensitive data.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): A service that encrypts internet traffic and masks a device’s network location to enhance privacy and security.
- Curated app store: An app distribution channel where available software is reviewed and approved according to specific policies or standards.
Reader FAQ
When will the MC03 ship?
Pre-orders are open now; deliveries in Europe are expected at the end of January 2026 and in North America from Spring 2026.
How much does the phone and software cost?
The MC03 retails at CHF / $ / €699 and includes 12 months of AphyOS. After that, subscriptions are listed at CHF / $ / €9.99 per month, with discounted multi-year bundles available.
Which secure services come preloaded?
Trusted services highlighted for the Vault include Proton Mail, Proton Calendar, Proton Drive, Proton VPN, Proton Pass and Threema.
Is the MC03 repairable?
The company states the design emphasizes quality, security, repairability and sustainability, but specific repair policies or part-availability details are not confirmed in the source.
Punkt. Journal News Editorials Library Digital Detox Archive Journal Punkt. unveils MC03, latest version of its unique smartphone offering giving users full control over personal data and usage. Made in…
Sources
- Punkt. Unveils MC03 Smartphone
- Punkt. MC03 Premium Secure Smartphone + 1 year of …
- Minimal phone pioneer Punkt is back with a new privacy- …
- Punkt's German-made MC03 smartphone comes to the US …
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