Long before smartphones became walled gardens, there was OpenMoko. Launched in the early 2000s, it was one of the first truly open source smartphone projects with open hardware, open software, open everything. The Neo1973 and later the FreeRunner aimed to give users full control, down to the bootloader and radio firmware.
The idea was radical for its time. Developers could tinker with the kernel, replace the UI, or even rewrite the modem stack. But poor hardware, high prices, and limited polish meant it never took off commercially. Still, it left a lasting impression on the DIY and privacy-focused communities. OpenMoko was a vision of freedom in your pocket, long before most people realized what they’d given up.
#OpenMoko #ForgottenTech #OpenHardware #FreeSoftware #MobileFreedom
@cpontvieux @janvlug @fraggle The battery is compatible with Nokia BL-5C, which was very popular and is still easily available today; same with external chargers.
@dos
Thanks, today I ordered the recommended battery.
The battery arrived, I put it in the #OpenMoko Neo FreeRunner, and it booted #SHR.
However, the battery indicator in SHR does not show any information about the battery level or whether power is connected or not.
But nice to see that the phone still boots!
Also when connected to the original power supply, I do not see any led light, but I do not remember if there used to be a led indicating that the phone is charging or not.
@janvlug @cpontvieux @fraggle You need to load a different kernel module, the default one expects a battery with integrated coulomb counter. This will also affect the LED (it isn't hardware controlled). SHR Settings should let you do that with a button press, but don't get mad at 16yo me if it doesn't work reliably 😁
