The Sirin Labs Finney U1 introduced blockchain-enabled smartphone technology which delivered elevated privacy and security features to users. The world received its initial blockchain smartphone release from Sirin Labs in late 2018 which promised to unite powerful security features with everyday phone functionality.
Design and Build
The Finney U1 presents itself to viewers with a unique appearance which differentiates it from standard smartphone designs. Its aesthetic bears a resemblance to Sirin Labs’ earlier luxury model, the Solarin, but at a more accessible price point. The smartphone incorporates a robust structure that allows users to access its dedicated screen for cryptocurrency operations through a special sliding function. The slider mechanism in the device combines improved haptic usability with physical protection features that secure sensitive operations from security threats.
Display
The Finney U1 model comes with a 6-inch display which delivers users sharp and vivid visuals during use. The display matches everyday usability standards through its satisfactory display brightness and color precision for standard activities and digital media as well as web navigation.
Performance
The Finney U1 runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor together with 6GB RAM and 128GB of built-in storage. The device configuration provides users with fluent multitasking and effective performance in different applications. Additional storage space can be achieved by the device through its microSD card slot which provides users with expandable and flexible storage options.
Blockchain and Security Features
The Finney U1 stands out because it combines blockchain technology with security-oriented features.
- The built-in cold storage cryptocurrency wallet inside Finney U1 operates independently from the primary hardware through a separate physical compartment to protect digital assets from cybersecurity attacks. The sliding activation mechanism provides physical security for cryptocurrency transactions by enabling the wallet function.
- With the fortified Android 8.1 Oreo operating system called Sirin OS the Finney U1 delivers secure performance to its users. Users can protect themselves from threats through the Cyber Security Center real-time monitoring tool and access decentralized applications (dApps) via the dedicated app store on the OS.
- The Finney U1 provides users with encrypted messaging and calling features that keep their conversations protected from interception and eavesdropping attempts. Confidential users find the secure communication feature of this device highly attractive.
Camera
The Finney U1 model features a 12MP rear camera and 8MP front-facing camera for its photographic capabilities. The camera specifications on the Finney U1 reach the level required for basic photography needs and video calls. Users can easily record their moments through the camera system because its interface remains simple and uncluttered.
Read More: How to Secure Your Smart Devices against Cyber Threats
Battery Life
The 3,280mAh battery inside the device enables users to achieve a full day of regular use without needing a recharge. The battery life of the device works well for standard use but users who spend much time on blockchain activities or media may need to recharge periodically. Power management capabilities integrated into Sirin OS help users maximize their device battery life.
User Experience
The Finney U1 delivers a near-stock Android experience, with minimal bloatware and a focus on security. The learning curve for new users is minimal, and the integration of blockchain features is intuitive, making it accessible even to those new to cryptocurrency. The dedicated dApp store encourages exploration of decentralized applications, fostering a community-centric approach to blockchain technology.
Market Position and Reception
Upon its release, the Finney U1 was priced at $999, positioning it alongside other high-end smartphones. This pricing strategy made it a more attainable option compared to Sirin Labs’ previous luxury model, the Solarin, which debuted at a staggering $16,000. The Finney U1’s focus on security and blockchain integration garnered attention from cryptocurrency enthusiasts and security-conscious users alike.