In case you did not know, Commodore International revived the venerable computer brand over recent years. Most notably, they released the Commodore 64 Ultimate, their take on an “all-in-one” for fans of the original computer released in the 80s. That unit is FPGA based and features two case designs depending on your preference. That aside, they recently, seemingly started pulling an Atari with the company appearing to have an identity crisis. They are clearly not wanting to be just a “gaming” company as they are taking pre-orders for their very own flip phone, a dumbphone in some respects with updated specs.
While the brand lives again, the C64 Ultimate will put you back about $300 or so, I do wonder if it is a “good” life. Since gaming is not their main focus they have been branching out, like what Atari tried, and then backtracked from – anyone remember the Atari speaker hat? The Atari cryptocurrency token? What about the Atari branded hotels? At the rate Commodore is going, we are likely to see Commodore clothing, a Commodore car, etc.
The Commodore Callback 8020 is a flip phone, but it features modern tech inside including a high-resolution color screen and internal memory – both things the last flip phone most people had never featured.
On paper, it sounds cool. Back to basics. Hell, even Commodore International are advertising this phone as “Less scroll. More soul.”
And that is where we run into a problem.
AI is everywhere but most companies know better than to use a tag line for a product such as that Commodore is using then turn around and use AI created materials to promote it.
Anyone that knows me knows, I bring receipts when making claims. It is my professional “cover my ass” card.
Commodore could have easily created a very similar video ad using real people had they simply tried. Sure, some bells and whistles would have required more human involvement with an artist and animator, etc., but it would have been better for the company in the long run.
Commodore are asking for $399 for the Callback 8020 so it is not a cheap phone even though they cheaped out on the promotion costs.
Callback 8020 will be released later in 2026. Preorders are open on their website now – check out the vague specs available and decide for yourself.
