When new smartphones are launched, people usual looks for a bigger screen, better camera and more functions. With a completely monochromatic and minimalistic display as default, Blloc from Germany is playing by another set of rules.

Unlike some other “back to the root” phones, you can still use the usual apps such as Twitter, Instagram, WhatsApp, Google Maps, Uber, etc. on Blloc, just that they look different. Blloc’s OS has been redesigned based on Android OS, everything displayed on the 5.5 inch LCD screen is in greyscale no matter if it is a website, photo, video or social media message, although full colour can also be shown by simply touching the fingerprint sensor. All the apps are put in a grid on the home screen for a simple layout and a much longer battery life. The smartphone has a 13 megapixel Sony dual camera that supports RAW format image output and 4k video @30fps. The 64 GB built in storage can be expended with SD card, and the phone also supports Bluetooth 4.0, 3.5 mm headphones, and USB-C. Blloc is available for reserve and delivery is expected for this fall.