Solana Mobile is set to release a second smartphone in an effort to capitalize on the unexpected success of its first crypto-ready device, according to a source familiar with the matter. The upcoming phone will offer similar features to its predecessor, the Saga, such as an onboard crypto wallet, custom Android software, and a “dApp store” for crypto applications. However, it will be priced more affordably and feature different hardware. The original Saga smartphone initially cost $1000, but due to struggling sales, its price was later reduced. The release of the new Solana Mobile phone is expected to help cool down the red-hot secondary market for existing Saga smartphones, which are in high demand and fetching significantly higher prices on platforms like eBay.
Initially, Saga faced challenges finding a market that justified its existence as it aimed to create a mobile-first platform for crypto traders and NFT collectors. However, the phone’s popularity skyrocketed when traders realized it came with a substantial allocation of BONK tokens, which exceeded the device’s price. Within a week, all Saga phones were sold out. Furthermore, owners of Saga phones have benefited from airdrops of valuable tokens and NFTs, strengthening the Saga community and motivating more Solana developers to explore mobile app development.
Solana Mobile has yet to provide a comment on this matter.