The smartphone market is full of look-alike devices, but the Volla Phone Plinius breaks the mold with a bold proposition: a semi-rugged design, a stunning 120 Hz OLED display, and—most importantly—a choice between two radically different operating systems. Whether you're a privacy advocate, a Linux enthusiast, or just someone who wants a durable daily driver, this phone deserves your attention. In this listicle, we'll explore seven standout features that make the Plinius a truly unique mid-range contender. From its freedom to choose your OS to its vibrant display, each detail has been crafted for a specific audience.
1. Choose Your Digital Path: Dual OS Freedom
The Volla Phone Plinius doesn't lock you into a single software ecosystem. It ships with your choice of two operating systems: Volla OS (a Google-free Android build) or Ubuntu Touch. This isn't just a gimmick; it reflects a philosophy of user autonomy. By offering both, Volla caters to those who want a familiar Android experience without Google's tracking, as well as those ready to explore a Linux-based mobile environment. The decision is made at purchase, and both versions are fully supported with updates. It's a rare level of flexibility that puts you in control of your privacy and workflow.
2. Privacy-First Android Without Google Services
If you choose Volla OS, you get Android 13 stripped of all Google Play Services and proprietary apps. Instead, the phone uses microG for location and push notifications where needed. The default launcher is clutter-free, and the system prompts you before any data leaves your device. You can install apps via the Aurora Store (an anonymous Play Store client) or F-Droid. This setup dramatically reduces background tracking and battery drain. For privacy-conscious users, it's Android as it should be—functional yet respectful.
3. The Ubuntu Touch Experience on a Phone
For those who prefer open-source elegance, Ubuntu Touch on the Plinius offers a desktop-like interface with swipe gestures and convergence capabilities. You get full access to the Ubuntu app ecosystem, including Telegram, Matrix, and office tools. The OS emphasizes privacy by design and is actively maintained by the UBports community. The Plinius's hardware—especially its 6.67-inch display and decent RAM—makes multitasking via the Unity shell smooth. It's not for everyone, but if you love Linux, this is one of the best mobile implementations available.
4. Semi-Rugged Design That Can Take a Beating
The Plinius lives up to its rugged promise with an IP68 rating for water and dust resistance, plus a reinforced frame and Corning Gorilla Glass 5. It can survive drops from up to 1.2 meters onto concrete. The textured back provides a secure grip, and the buttons are large and tactile. Despite its toughness, it remains relatively slim at 9.8 mm and weighs 215 grams. This makes it a reliable companion for outdoor workers, hikers, or anyone prone to accidental drops.
5. Stunning 120 Hz OLED Display
The 6.67-inch Full HD+ OLED panel (2400×1080 pixels) supports a fluid 120 Hz refresh rate. Colors are deep and blacks are true to the OLED nature. With a peak brightness of 800 nits, outdoor visibility is excellent. Whether you're scrolling through web pages or watching HDR content, the display is a pleasure. It's rare to see such a premium screen in a rugged mid-range phone, and it significantly elevates the user experience.
6. Solid Mid-Range Performance
Under the hood, the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 processor, paired with 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage (expandable via microSD), delivers smooth day-to-day performance. It handles multitasking, navigation, and light gaming without hiccups. The 5000 mAh battery ensures all-day battery life even with the 120 Hz display. While not a flagship powerhouse, the Plinius offers a balanced, reliable experience that matches its privacy-focused mission.
7. A Unique Ecosystem with Regular Updates
Volla doesn't just sell hardware; it maintains a growing ecosystem. The company provides up to 5 years of security updates and OS upgrades for both Volla OS and Ubuntu Touch. The phone also supports Linux desktop apps through convergence (on Ubuntu Touch) and comes with a dedicated Volla community forum. This long-term commitment is rare in the mid-range space and adds immense value for buyers who plan to keep their phone for years.
The Volla Phone Plinius isn't for everyone—and that's its charm. It challenges the status quo by giving you real choice, robust hardware, and a passionate community behind it. Whether you pick Volla OS for a clean, private Android experience or Ubuntu Touch for a Linux desktop on the go, you're getting a device that respects your data and your wallet. In a world of monotonous slabs, the Plinius stands out as a thoughtful, empowering alternative.