Planet Computers throws Linux fans a bone, improves calls, and adds virty trackpad to Cosmo Communicator Planet Computers has updated the Debian-based operating system for its Cosmo Communicator PDA to allow users to place calls from the device's second screen. Released last year, the Cosmo Communicator is a modern-day reimagining of the Psion Series 5 PDAs of yore. The device comes with two touch-sensitive displays: a primary …
Shame that Planet are not continuing with Sailfish support, or maybe Jolla are not supporting newer Planet models.
I'll stick with the Gemini for Sailfish. Still being updated (had another update this month), proper touch-driven interface, has a nice linux shell, runs Python. It's the truer Psion adoptive descendant having been evolved out of Maemo which was a kind of Symbian successor. Had it since the 2017 crowdfunder and still in regular use.
My Gemini has recently become essentially unusable with the screen simply shutting down every now and then. No updates of any kind since 2018. Planet's business model of trying to finance everything by cashflow is doomed to failure. It's a pity, because the devices are clever and show lots of promise, but it was more or less bound to happen.
My Gemini is now pretty much a novelty paperweight. Still works fine, but it was never quite good enough as an everyday phone. Skipped the Cosmo as that came out too soon after the Gemini, but I'm semi-tempted by the Slide, but given the poor support the Gemini's had I don't fancy finding myself in the same position a couple of years down the line.
That's what I bought mine for. But I had to replace the keyboard twice and still have real issues with the battery running down when the Gemini loses and then can't reestablish the local wifi signal. And now I have problems with the screen. It's still basically a great device but if you need support you'll be in trouble.
My wife has used a Gemini as her only phone since it launched, as a pre-order, and she's been happy with it. I've also now received a Cosmo that I'll have to configure to replace the Gemini.
The Gemini still looks as good as when it came years ago, and works just fine. The additional camera isn't great quality, but that was expected.
(A little off topic but I'm isolating so making my own entertainment.)
If my assumption that the middle picture in the story (the one not obviously an advert) is actually the product in question is correct, it reminds me of that control in the middle of the table of the conference room that is supposed to make the presenter's device magically display on a screen, or said screen to appear for it. Once such device is located, those that have been in the room before will tactfully/tactically demur to the enthusiasm of those who have not; this will then take at least ten minutes of experimentation and debate, and then usually result in calling in the facilitation staff, who will fix it all in 30 seconds.
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