In this Light Phone III review, we’ll dive deep into the features, user experience, and purpose of this minimalist phone that’s been gaining popularity among digital minimalists and anyone looking to reduce screen time.
What Is the Light Phone III?
The Light Phone III is a minimalist phone designed to do less, intentionally. Developed by a company founded by Joe Hollier and Kaiwei Tang, its mission is to create a phone that encourages users to spend less time staring at a screen and more time being present in their daily lives.
The Light Phone III isn’t trying to compete with smartphones. In fact, it’s trying to help you break up with them. It doesn’t have social media apps, email, or even a traditional browser. Instead, it focuses on essentials like:
- Phone calls
- Text messages
- Alarm
- Navigation
- Music and podcast player
- Hotspot functionality
- Camera (new addition!)
Design & Build Quality
The Light Phone III features a matte black or light grey body with a larger, higher-contrast e-ink display compared to its predecessor. It retains its modern, minimalist feel but feels more substantial in the hand.
Pros:
- Lightweight and extremely portable
- Larger e-ink screen is easier on the eyes and more responsive
- Sleek, modern design with intuitive navigation
Cons:
- No color display (could be a con for some people)
- Slightly improved responsiveness, but still slower than smartphones
Features and Functionality
Let’s break down what the Light Phone III can do and what it intentionally doesn’t.
1. Calls and Texts
This core functionality works reliably. You can make and receive calls and send SMS messages through a simple, clean interface. MMS support is still limited — so group texts and image messaging remain minimal.
2. Music and Podcasts
It supports MP3 files and offers podcast syncing. Streaming via the Light App continues to be available, and the improved audio output is a bonus.
3. Directions
A basic directions tool now comes with a slightly improved interface and better location tracking, although it’s still focused on minimalism.
4. Hotspot
You can tether the Light Phone III to another device. It’s still a great emergency option.
5. Camera (New!)
The Light Phone III introduces a very basic camera — a big shift! It’s intentionally minimal, with no editing tools or filters. Just point and shoot.
6. Utilities
You get an alarm, calculator, calendar, and new note-taking features that sync with the dashboard.
What It Doesn’t Do
- No social media
- No email
- No app store
- No infinite scroll
Who Is the Light Phone III For?
This device isn’t for everyone. But if you fall into any of the following categories, it might just change your life:
- Digital minimalists: Want a break from the attention economy.
- Parents: Looking for a distraction-free device for teens or younger kids.
- Writers and creatives: Need to focus without distractions.
- Retreat goers: Want to unplug without being unreachable.
- People doing a digital detox: Want to reduce phone usage drastically.
Real-World Use Cases
Let’s look at some real examples of how people use the Light Phone III in their daily lives.
1. Weekend Phone
Many users keep it as a secondary device to use during weekends or vacations.
2. Primary Phone
More users than ever are using the Light Phone III as their only phone, appreciating the camera and note app additions.
3. Kid’s First Phone
Parents appreciate the simplicity, security, and improved durability.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Truly minimalist design
- Better battery life (up to 3-4 days on standby)
- Larger, improved e-ink display
- Encourages better digital habits
- Durable build
- Now includes a simple camera
Cons:
- Still no multimedia messaging
- Typing experience remains basic
- Not ideal for users who rely heavily on apps
- Pricey compared to feature phones ($399+ depending on configuration)
Price and Availability
As of 2025, the Light Phone III retails for $599 USD. It’s available directly from thelightphone.com and ships internationally. You can also find bundles with cases and screen protectors.
Software Updates & Support
The Light Phone team continues to push updates. With the Light Phone III, updates have focused on improving camera usability, adding new tools like notes, and enhancing stability.
Customer Reviews & Community Feedback
On forums and in social communities, the Light Phone III is receiving praise for balancing minimalism with utility.
Key user takeaways:
- Most love the improved screen and added camera
- Some wish for better typing features
- Still a favorite for those escaping the attention economy
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Is the Light Phone III Worth It?
That depends on what you’re looking for.
If you want a powerful camera, endless entertainment, and access to all your apps — this isn’t the phone for you.
But if you crave a calmer, quieter digital life, the Light Phone III could be one of the best purchases you’ll ever make. It’s more than a phone — it’s a lifestyle choice.
It won’t replace your iPhone or Galaxy in terms of features, but it might replace your need to constantly check them. That’s pretty powerful.
Final Verdict: 9/10
The Light Phone III isn’t for everyone — but it might be exactly what you need.
If you’re craving more peace, focus, or just want to break the addiction loop of endless scrolling, this upgraded device might be your digital freedom ticket.
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This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to continue providing useful content. Thank you for your support!
