1. Teleboard | Support Center
  2. Solution home
  3. Buying Guides
  4. Phones
Open navigation

Kosher Mobile Phones Buying Guides and Resources


Retailers, manufacturers, and other kosher phone product providers are welcome to contact us if they would like to be included in this article.


What are Kosher Mobile Phones?


This article suggests kosher mobile phone choices in relation to Telebroad's UNI-Mobile global cellular service.   


Kosher mobile phones are limited in "smart" functionality and mobile data connectivity in order to avoid digital distractions and exposure. They purposely block or lack web browsing, social media, and other content consumption capabilities, and have restricted or no app installation options.

Kosher mobile phones tend to prioritize voice and texting communication over all-purpose use. They either have simplified hardware and software or come with a modified operating system or a filtration layer that removes distracting features and allows only approved or customized apps that abide by kosher standards.


Users should generally expect less frequent software or firmware updates since manufacturers have to verify that these don't interfere with the kosher modifications and functionality.


Types of Kosher Phones


Kosher phones can be generally classified into four types of devices based on tiers of hardware and operating systems. These classifications may overlap or be used interchangeably by vendors, manufacturers, or even users' own expectations. 


Furthermore, these classifications also have to do with a phone's available features. Even more advanced phones may be modified, run filtering software, or can be bought in a talk-only or talk-and-text configurations that practically make them work like basic or feature phones.


Dumb/Basic phones: These are the simplest devices, based on the legacy cellular technology that was in use before the advent of smartphones. Their hardware only allows calling and texting since they do not have a cellular modem, meaning they are completely incapable of any mobile data connectivity and internet browsing. This makes them a no-fuss choice for more stringent kosher users, but users should still consider that these phones may have an FM radio feature. 


Since more advanced cellular phones are very affordable, pure basic phones are less common, and it is easier to find modified feature phones with talk-only functionality. 


Feature phones: These phones do have mobile data connectivity. However, their form factor and small screens make internet browsing impractical or inconvenient. They include only an essential set of pre-installed apps and no option to install additional apps or perform software updates. They usually have a physical keypad and a user interface that supports it, but some models do have touch screens.


Smart feature phones: This hybrid category gives users more smart features, but with a form factor and hardware that are still very similar to regular feature phones. The difference is usually a more advanced operating system (like KaiOS or a trimmed-down version of Android) and a user interface that takes advantage of a touch screen. They also offer better software upgradability, allowing manufacturers to introduce new approved apps and general improvements. 


Modified smartphones: These are normal smartphones but with a modified OS/user interface or a filtering layer that allows only selective data connectivity and installation of approved apps or kosher software bundles.


Communication Configuration Choices


While the main focus of kosher phones is avoiding web browsing and undesirable content, access to other communication services may also be limited or blocked.


Many phone models can be bought with different communication configurations. For example, users can buy the same model as talk-and-text, talk-only, or other configurations that suit their kosher requirements.


With basic, feature, and smart feature phones, it is usually not possible to change the initial configuration to access additional communication features. A user would typically need to purchase a new phone with the communication services they need, rather than reconfigure their existing phone


Smartphones are much more flexible in this regard, but it is still advisable to consider future needs and ask vendors for upgrade and reconfiguration choices.


Talk only: The phone can only make and receive voice calls.


Talk and text (no MMS!): In addition to voice calls, the phone can send and receive text messages, but multimedia messages (images, video, audio, and files) are disabled.

Talk and MMS: Voice calls and full multi-media texting are enabled. The phone can send and receive text messages, images, audio, and file attachments. 


Calls and media only: The phone can make and receive voice calls and include selected media apps such as camera, music player, and voice recorder. The music player supports sideloaded files only (no streaming). Pictures or audio captured with the camera or voice recorder cannot be shared with any messaging apps, unless transferred to other devices.


Talk, SMS, and Internet: Voice calls and full multi-media texting are enabled, and the phone also has email, WhatsApp, or other messaging apps. Web browsing is blocked on these phones. WhatsApp or other messaging apps are modified versions optimized for reducing distractions by blocking social-like features such as channels, groups, status updates, or even media sharing.


Web Browsing Filtration


For smartphones and smart feature phones, additional user choices involve the level of web browsing filtering methods.


Filtering software may already be included with the phone or may require a monthly subscription.


The strictest method is to simply block all website browsing and searching (while still allowing internet connectivity for approved apps). 


For users who do require web browsing, whitelist or category filtering allows access only to specific websites or to websites from specific categories. An even more flexible method is content filtering that examines and blocks inappropriate text, images, and videos in real time and can be combined with safe search filtering that hides undesirable search results. 


Kosher filtering software providers are listed below.

 

Buying Considerations and Guidelines


  • The phone must be unlocked. That means it's not tied down to a specific carrier and can accept any service provider SIM cards.

  • While your phone should not be tied down to any specific carrier, in North America the Uni-Mobile service runs on the AT&T network, and your phone needs to be compatible with its cellular frequencies.

    While the phones listed in this article are compatible with the cellular frequencies of the AT&T network, hardware and firmware keep changing and we cannot guarantee they will work with our UNI-Mobile service in all situations. Please consider the return/exchange policy of the manufacturer/vendor before purchasing a phone.

  • Even if you only intend to use your phone for voice calls and texting, it should to be 4G/LTE compatible to be able to use UNI-Mobile SIMs and service.

    If you intend to use your phone in other countries, you can find a list of international carriers here, but ideally you should look for a phone with worldwide network compatibility.

  • For texting and email, keep in mind that phones with a physical keypad use a technology called T9 Predictive for text input that compares key presses to a built-in dictionary. This may take a bit to get used to and can be somewhat slower compared to a touch keyboard. You should, however, avoid phones that use the older and much slower multi-tap method that requires repeated key presses to cycle through letters.

  • Besides looking specifically for "Kosher phones", you can also consider "digital-detox phones", "talk and text only phones", or "elderly/senior phones". These are not likely to have an official kosher certification, but can offer the sought-after limited or blocked internet experience that technically satisfies kosher requirements. 


UNI-Mobile Installation and Activation Tips


Consider the following tips when installing and activating a UNI-Mobile plan on a kosher phone: 


  • It is preferable, especially for non smartphones, to use a physical UNI-Mobile SIM over an eSIM. This will make installation easier and likely save the need to configure settings.

  • Kosher phones are unlocked devices designed to work with multiple carriers. However, if you can't get your phone to register with the carrier's network (AT&T in North America), you can try activating the SIM in a different device recognized by the carrier, and then putting it back in the kosher phone.

  • If the phone settings allow it, you can manually input the network's APN settings, which you can find here.

  • Additional suggestions for troubleshooting your UNI-Mobile connection can be found here.


Kosher Phone Choices


Phones are listed alphabetically within each category.


To provide a bigger selection, we have listed some phones that do not have a formal kosher certification, but do fully block or lack web browsing and app installation capabilities.


Basic and Feature Phones


Pom Classic/Pom Kosher


Find it at www.pomkosher.com/

Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: yes

Jewish life apps/tools included: Only Zmanim



Pom Classic
WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

Processor: Mediatek Helio 20

Memory: 3 GB

Internal storage: 32GB

Battery capacity: 1450 MAH

Display size: 2.83" Touch Screen

Camera: 8 MP back, 2MP front

Weight: 4.78 oz (134 g)














Pom Kosher

WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

Processor: Helio P22 MT6762

Memory: 4GB RAM
Internal storage: 64GB Memory.
Display size: 3.54" Touch main, 1.44" sub-screen
Battery capacity: 1800 MAH
Camera: 13 MP back, 8MP front

Weight: 5.17 oz (162g)


The Pom Classic is a dual-SIM Vaad HaKehillos certified kosher phone with good Yiddish support. It is available in talk-only or talk-and-text configurations, and there is also a model that supports European cellular frequencies. 


While the user interface is based on Android 11 and it has a touch screen, it focuses on basic functionality and offers the simplicity of a feature phone with apps like calendar, daily Zmanim list, notepad, and a calculator. The talk-and-text model also has media apps –  a camera, an audio recorder, and a music player. Voice-to-text and conference calling are also supported.


The Pom Kosher has the same functionality but better hardware a 13MP camera, a faster processor, more storage, a bigger battery, and a bigger screen.


Punkt. MP02 Minimalist Phone


Find it at www.punkt.ch

Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: No

Jewish life apps/tools included: No


WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

GPS: Yes

Processor: Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 210

RAM: 2 GB LPDDR3, 533 MHz

Internal Storage: 16 GB eMMC 5.1

Battery capacity: 1.280 mAh Li-ion

Display size: 2.0″ (aspect ratio: 4:3)

Weight: 3.6 oz (100 g)

Water Resistance: splash-proof to IP52

The Punkt. MP02 is a browser-free digital-detox feature phone designed in Switzerland. It offers an interesting choice for users seeking enhanced privacy by utilizing the Signal protocol for worldwide encrypted calls and texts via Wi-Fi or mobile data. 


The handful of apps includes only a calendar, calculator, notes, timer, alarm, and contacts. Hebrew is a supported language for both the user interface and text input. The keypad is backlit. SMS and MMS messaging are both supported with T9 input. There is no 3.5 mm audio jack, but a USB-C adaptor is provided.


Sunbeam F1 Horizon/F1 Pro


Find them at www.sunbeamwireless.com

Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes

Jewish life apps/tools included: No


WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

Processor: MediaTek 6739

Memory: 2GB

Internal Storage 16 GB

MicroSD card slot: up to 32 GB

Camera: 2 MP

Battery capacity: 1,750 mAh

Display size: 2.8″

Display resolution: 240 x 320

Weight 5.4 oz (152 g)

Headphone Jack: 3.5 mm Stereo


The F1 Horizon feature phone can be ordered in 12 different software and hardware configurations with apps for navigation, weather, a text-only email, and a choice of touch input screen on select models. Some features require a separate Sunbeam subscription.


The Pro version has the same technology, hardware, and configuration choices but is more durable, has a larger battery, and is water-resistant. It is also an ounce heavier. 


The manufacturer lists good international roaming and coverage for the phone in the US, Canada, Argentina, Europe, Israel, and Australia. 


Smart Feature Phones


Fig Flip II Pro  Android Auto Edition


Find it at: www.figkosher.com/
Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes
Jewish life apps/tools included: Only Zmanim

WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

GPS: Yes

Processor: MTK6761

Memory: 4GB or 6GB

Internal Storage 64 GB or 128GB

Camera: 20 MP Camera & 8MP front Camera

Battery capacity: 1800 mAh

Display size: 3.54" Touch Screen

Display resolution: 640x960

Fig produces several customized kosher mobile devices for maximizing user efficiency without compromising religious standards. The Flip II pro is currently their most premium model that comes with impressive cameras, a touch screen, two SIM card slots, and on-screen and T9 keyboards.


Its smart apps include weather information and Waze navigation. The Android Auto edition allows mirroring of the display on a car's dashboard.


It can be bought with either 4GB RAM and 64GB of internal storage or 6GB RAM and 128GB internal storage, and there is also a European version with additional frequencies. 


MegaLife F1


Find it at: www.megalifephones.com
Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes
Jewish life apps/tools included: Yes

WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

GPS: Yes, but depending on configuration

Display: 2.8" touchscreen +  1.44" external

Cameras: 5MP Rear, 2MP Front

Battery capacity: 2000mAh

Memory: 4GB RAM

Storage: 64GB internal Storage

SD card slot: up to 256GB
Water Resistance: IP68 Water & Dustproof

The MegaLife F1 is a single-SIM water and dustproof smart-feature Android phone that is compatible with cellular networks worldwide. It has a manufacturer-guaranteed non-customizable list of rabbinic supervises apps and proactive blocking of unwanted content.


When ordering the phone, you can select between a talk-only or talk-and-text version and a Core and Zen filtering editions, each enhancing its basic features with navigation, media, email, banking, and finance apps. Additional software also includes medical apps, Uber, Lyft, Google Voice, and a filtered WhatsApp messenger.


Software and configurations can only be changed by a seller to configurations of the same filtering edition. So users should consider their possible future software needs.


Mind Phone


Find it at www.greentouchstore.com
Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes
Jewish life apps/tools included: Yes
WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

RAM: 3 GB

Internal Storage: 32 GB

Micro SD Slot: 128GB

Battery capacity: 2400 mAh.

Display: 4.0" glass IPS touch display

Main camera: 5MP

Selfie camera: 2MP

3.5mm headphone jack 

The Mind Phone is a smart feature phone running a modified Android build called MindOS. It would appeal to users preferring a candy-bar form factor phone and a larger screen, while still carrying a compact device. The physical keypad and touch screen allow for both T9 and on-screen input, with both methods supporting Hebrew characters. 


The phone has a dual SIM slot, and it comes in talk-and-text or talk-only models, both available in a variety of colors. 


Besides basic apps like calendar, weather, notes, a voice recorder, and reminders, a budgeting app is also included, and Google Maps and Waze navigation are soon to be supported, but presently other Google apps are not!


Mudita Kompakt


Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: No
Find it at www.store.mudita.com/store
Jewish life apps/tools included: No
Dual SIM + eSIM

(can use either microSD or 2nd SIM)

WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes + NFC

GPS: Yes

Display: 4.3” E-Ink®, 800x480 resolution

Battery capacity: 3300 mAh Li-Polymer

Processor: MediaTek MT6761V/WBA

Memory: 3GB

Internal storage: 32GB

MicroSD card slot: up to 2TB.

3.5mm headphone jack

Camera: 8MP with dual-color flash

Water Resistance: IP54 dust/splash resistance


The Mudita Kompakt is a Polish-made smart feature phone that sets itself apart from the crowd thanks to an E-Ink screen. Commonly found in eBook readers, E-Ink displays are ideal for reading and are considered healthier since they reduce eye strain and radiate no blue light. They also remain clear and readable even in bright sunlight and increase battery life. The tradeoff is a low screen refresh rate, but that by itself makes them less appealing for media consumption and web browsing.


Another unique feature is a dedicated offline mode that can be toggled with a physical button and disables cellular reception, the microphone, the camera, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi to give the user complete privacy and distraction-free usability.


Out of the box, the Mudita Kompakt has no web browsing capabilities or an app store and does not support Google services. It has SMS/MMS messaging but has no other messaging apps. It includes a calculator, weather, calendar, camera, voice notes, meditation, and Chess apps. It also has an eReader app for comfortable reading of books and documents, and a map app with offline mode. 


Do note that additional apps can be sideloaded to the device by connecting it to a computer. This, however, requires an intentional effort by the user and some degree of technical knowledge. Sideloaded apps may not function properly as they would not be optimized for E-Ink or require Google services.


It is also important to mention that Hebrew is not included for either the user interface or input. Mudita told us that sideloading additional fonts may be possible, but they cannot confirm how the device will function with these. If you regularly use Hebrew or Yiddish in texting, you may want to consider other devices.  


The Mudita Kompakt is compatible with cellular networks worldwide on its Global version. However, US users should choose the North America Optimized version as it supports more US and Canadian frequencies and has been successfully tested in several American cities. For the North American version, you need to select "United States" as the shipping country on the Mudita store page.


TAK S7


Find it at: www.takphones.com
Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes
Jewish life apps/tools included: only Zmanin

WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes

Display: 2.8-inch Touchscreen  

Screen resolution: 480*640

Memory: 4GB

Internal storage: 64GB 

Camera: 5MP rear camera+2MP front-facing

Battery capacity: 2150mAh


Unmistakably kosher with Hebrew letters on its keypad and a Vaad HaKehillos kosher certification on its directional pad, the Tak S7 is a good choice for travelers thanks to global 4G networks compatibility and a dual SIM card slot.


It has a full dictionary for English, Hebrew, and Yiddish, and text can be entered with both on-screen and T9 keyboards.


The phone runs a modified Android 13 operating system, with a kosher-encrypted layer to block internet access, video playback, and app installations. It receives regular software updates to improve functionality and user experience.


The phone can be ordered in three Kashrus configurations: talk & text, talk only with media apps (camera, music player, recorder), or talk only. Compared to other smart-feature phones, currently the list of apps is a bit limited and is more on par with a feature phone, but it does have the Zmanim app for daily halachic times, and the music app has a tag editor.


Wonder Phone


Find it at www.wondersimple.com/
Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes
Jewish life apps/tools included: Yes
WiFi/Bluetooth: Yes/Yes
GPS: Yes
Display: 3.5" touch Screen
Camera: 21MP rear+5MP front cameras
Battery capacity: 2850 mAh
Internal storage: 16GB
MicroSD card slot: up to 2TB

3.5mm headphone jack

The Wonder phone is billed as having been built kosher from the ground up, offering simplicity and practicality without compromise. A built-in feedback option lets users request system refinements, and a wireless update app allows easy downloading of software updates.


The phone can be ordered in a talk and text, talk and media, or talk only configuration.


An on-screen keyboard and T9 predictive text of the keypad can be used for input. The touch screen has an anti-glare coating for use even in bright sunlight. The battery is removable for easy replacement or backup power, and the phone has 14W fast charging.


Users who need good media capabilities would appreciate its 21MP camera that supports HDR mode for better shots in any environment and an expansion slot that accepts SD cards up to 2TB. It also has a voice recorder, a music player app, and supports text-to-speech.


Waze Navigation is available, and the phone is Android Auto Compatible to mirror it on a car's dashboard.


Smart Phones


KosherOS Smart Phones


Manufacturer/vendor kosher attestment: Yes

https://kosheros.com/collections/current-phones

Jewish life apps/tools included: Yes (depending on the seleced app package)


Smartphones are inherently designed for internet use, media consumption, and app installation. The availability of kosher smartphones requires a software solution that blocks internet access, features, and app installation on the operating system level. 


One such solution is KosherOS from SafeTelecom for Android devices. It is an operating system that fully controls the software running on the phones they sell, excluding all the apps and features they do not approve. Their phones give you full access to Google services but block any direct or indirect web browsing access.


We have confirmed with SafeTelecom that KosherOS is not merely a user interface or a launcher layer, but an actual custom operating system that is permanent on the device. Booting into safe mode or performing a factory reset will not expose any unwanted Android features since KosherOS will remain as the only active and accessible operating system.


KosherOS phones can be ordered with different app packages and initial functionality can be further extended with apps from the proprietary SafeTelecom app store. The growing list of apps is meticulously inspected to ensure they do not allow web browsing access or bypass other restrictions.


SafeTelecom sells Google Pixel and Moto G KosherOS phones with 18 months of free software updates. Also, if you already own a Google Pixel device, you can have them install KosherOS on it for you. 


Kosher Phones Vendors


The phones we have listed above can be bought directly from their companies. 


For additional phone options, price comparison, or configuration choices you can visit the following vendors' websites.


Note that many of the Kosher phones offered by these vendors have been modified to block some features or outfitted with filtering software. Buying the same models in other online or physical stores that do not specialize in kosher products may result in a device that lacks kosher standards.


www.koshercell.org: Sells all types of kosher phones and tablets. They offer various app bundles for their Kosher smartphones and users can request additional apps. Their physical store is located in Lakewood, NJ.


www.koshersignal.com: This newcomer online retailer operating from Monsey, NY, has a large selection of kosher phones and other digital devices. Their website has convenient navigation for choosing filtering and communication level configurations.


www.thesafecell.com : Has a wide selection of approved new and in like-new devices including basic, smart, and navigation phones. Phones on their site can be browsed and filtered by cellular carriers.


www.thewireless.us: Sells, repairs, and rents kosher and filtered phones, specializing in basic and feature phones. Physical stores in Brooklyn and Monroe, NY. Next-day delivery in the Tri-State area. They also offer international shipping and sell MP3 players and GPS devices. 


Kosher Filtering Software Providers


Kosher filtering software can be installed on your existing smart mobile devices, as well as PCs, to create a kosher user experience. 


The following companies are recommended by TAG.


GenTech www.gentechsolution.com


GenTech offers a filtering solution that uses artificial intelligence to continually keep computers and mobile devices safe and secure and removes unwanted content, including ads. 


Their software runs on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chromebook devices. It doesn't just block content but rebuilds a clean faster-loading web pages.


Depending on the platform, plans are available for one-time fee or a subscription and can block web content, apps, or both. 


Meshimer www.meshimer.com


Meshimer offers a simpler filtering option for users who do not require ongoing adjustment of filtration levels or features. 


Regardless, their screening technology optimizes internet experience across all browsers for maximum ease and efficiency, while protecting from unwanted content. 


The software is available on Android, iOS, and Windows as a subscription, and there is also a per-device one-time setup fee. Also note that in-store installation is required, currently available in locations in New York, New Jersey, Quebec, and  Montreal. 


Geder www.geder.org


Geder filtering software comes with an assortment of features including image and video filtering, ad blocking, and safe searching.


The software can limit internet access to a list of pre-approved web categories or whitelisted web pages, that users can expand with their own choices. Alternatively, users can access the full internet but avoid questionable content with AI-backed smart filtering technology.


Users can limit app access to pre-selected choices and add email access if needed. For those wanting to keep things simple, a Waze-only configuration is available.


Geder software runs on Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android. Plans are only available as a subscription, and there is also a per-device activation fee.


NetSpark www.netsparkmobile.com


Netspark is a subscription filtering solution that works on Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, and Chromebook devices. It offers various filtering levels, real-time online filtering, blocking or allowing specific websites or categories, blocking inappropriate text messages, blocking specific apps, and screen time management.


Individuals and families can share a subscription on up to nine devices, and tailored plans for organizations with more devices are also available.


Additional Options for Reducing Digital Distractions


If you already own a smartphone and don't wish to modify its user interface or buy another phone, it is possible to make your phone behave like a feature phone. 


While the following methods are not strictly kosher and can be turned off at will, they do provide an on-the-go temporary option for a less distracting digital usage until users can apply a better kosher solution.


Simulating a Feature Phone with Ultra Power Saving


Most smartphones support a battery-saving mode that can double or even triple the time the phone can function before it needs to be charged. In this mode, only several selected apps can be used, making for a distraction-free digital experience.


Activating the mode may vary by brand and OS. You can look for it by searching your phone's settings for "Power saving", "Battery saver", "Limit apps", or similar phrases. 


Depending on the phone brand and model, notifications may still show for all apps and not just the apps you selected. You would need to disable notifications for any app you wish not be distracted by.  


The following steps are for Samsung phones running the One UI interface:


  • Go to your phone settings by swiping from the top and tapping the Settings () button.

  • Scroll down and tap Battery.

  • Tap Power saving and toggle on Limit apps and Home Screen.


  • To enable maximum power saving, you can use the Power saving toggle on the same screen. It is more convenient, however, to swipe from the top to access Quick Settings and tap the Power saving button.

  • When enabled, you can select only 8 apps to use on the Home Screen.

  • To switch back to normal functionality, tap the menu button and select Turn off Power Saving.



Note that in this mode, the lock screen may be disabled on some devices or will not support fingerprint or password verification. Therefore, before enabling it, you should set up PIN protection for your phone.

Minimalist Launchers and Other Feature Controls Apps


An assortment of feature control apps are available for both Android and iOS to limit and block smartphones functions. These include app blockers, firewalls to limit internet access, and parental control and screen time management tools. Users can combine several apps for better phone control, for example access to a firewall app can be prevented by locking it with an app blocker.


Minimalist launchers are user interface apps that are help reduce screen time and digital distractions on smartphones. They offer a simpler usage experience that encourages productivity and focus with cleaner home screen layout,display of just essential information, and replacing icons with a text-based interface.


Similar to filtering software and relevant to kosher needs, some launchers can also block or hide notifications and app access (before buying, please make sure the launcher supports this feature).


Advantages of launchers over filtering software:


  • Ease of installation. Launchers can be downloaded from app stores and installed in minutes.

  • They offer more flexible customization, especially for display and aesthetic settings.

  • They are usually cheaper than filtering software with lower subscription fees and lifetime purchasing options also available. 


Disadvantages of launchers compared to filtering software:


  • Launchers need to be more specifically configured for kosher requirements, while filtering software is kosher-ready out of the box.

  • Launchers cannot block web access per se. Instead, the user will need to block access to all unwanted apps that provide web access.

  • Launchers are much easier to disable and circumvent than filtering software.


You can find minimalist launchers by searching your app store for "Minimalist phone/launcher", "Detox launcher", or "Dumbphone" on both Android and iOS.


Resources


PuriFone.com makes kosher filtering and customized software for feature phones. They have various filtering grades to balance usability and restrictions. On their website, you will find a range of phones outfitted with their software, and they can be contacted for advice on tailored kosher solutions for other feature phones.


TAG (Technology Awareness Group) is an international organization that provides the Jewish community with advisory services, support, and education on responsible and kosher use of technology, as well as internet filtering technology for computers, smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other devices. It has offices in multiple cities across the US, Canada, and Mexico and additional locations in Israel, Europe, Brazil, and Australia 


Vaad HaKehillos is an umbrella organization for several Jewish communities that provides kosher certification for technological devices for use on the most stringent levels. Phones approved by the organization carry the Vaad Hakehillos emblem to make users secure in recognising these devices meet the standards set by the leadership of their chassidus.