
Light Phone III Review: The Minimalist Device That Tests Patience
2025-05-09
Author: Ming
The Struggle to Disconnect
As a smartphone user caught in the whirlwind of constant connectivity, I decided it was time to rethink my relationship with my phone. Despite my attempts to limit social media and work notifications, the habit of mindlessly reaching for my device lingered. My daily usage hovered around two to three hours—less than many—but still significant enough to warrant concern.
Introducing the Light Phone III
Enter the Light Phone III, a device designed specifically for those seeking a simplified mobile experience. Unlike conventional smartphones loaded with distracting apps, this device strips down to the essentials—no email or social media, just the tools you genuinely need. With its minimalist aesthetics, an OLED screen, and a much-improved camera, it caught my interest immediately.
Minimalism Meets Frustration
After using the $599 Light Phone III since late March, I aimed to make it my primary device, but the transition proved challenging. For those whose lives revolve around a smartphone's conveniences, embracing the Light Phone can feel like a leap into the past. While it isn't quite ready to serve as a standalone device for most people, it shows promise for a focused lifestyle.
A Glimpse Into the Light Philosophy
The Light Phone III evokes nostalgia for the original iPhone—simple, with basic functions. The device intentionally avoids excess, offering just a selection of tools aimed at reducing distraction. The minimalist interface, featuring white text on a black background, reinforces this philosophy. It encourages users to engage with their devices intentionally, rather than being swept along by app notifications.
Hardware: A Chunky Rectangle
The Light Phone III's hardware design is distinctly different from sleek modern smartphones. While it boasts a 3.92-inch AMOLED display, its chunky 12mm thickness and shorter stature make it an unusual fit. However, the physical buttons are a refreshing change in a world dominated by touchscreens.
Setting Up the Light Phone
On first use, the Light Phone requires activation through an online dashboard, where you can manage settings and add content. Unfortunately, the content management process is cumbersome, lacking the seamless transfer capabilities users expect in 2025. My attempts to upload music revealed a painful reality: a giant playlist with chaotic song organization.
Navigating Music and Directions
While I fretted over the basic music player, it was the navigation capability that salvaged my experience. The Directions app proved simple yet effective, delivering accurate turn-by-turn navigation. However, in an age of real-time traffic updates, its basic framework feels antiquated.
The Photography Experience
The Light Phone III introduces a camera, but be prepared for limitations. Although it captures decent images in good light, the inherent lag in taking photos alongside the device's minimalist design can frustrate anyone used to modern smartphone cameras.
Calling and Texting Challenges
The Light Phone excels in making clear and straightforward calls, but texting proved to be its Achilles' heel. The absence of autocorrect turned a two-letter text into an exercise in torture; typing feels slow and error-prone, making it impractical for ongoing conversations.
The Road to Minimalism
While my journey with the Light Phone III was filled with challenges and moments of frustration, it illuminated a path toward a more intentional approach to connectivity. It reinforced the need for a mindful relationship with technology, urging me to reconsider how I engage with my smartphone. Though I’m not entirely ready to abandon my iPhone, the experience nudged me closer to breaking free from constant notifications—a small step toward a more balanced life.