Small phones have steadily disappeared from the market. Across categories ranging from budget smartphones to flagship Android devices and iPhones, it has become increasingly difficult to find a handset with a display smaller than six inches.
- A Compact Phone Concept Appears at CES
- Introducing the Ikko MindOne Pro
- A Modern Take on a Small Form Factor
- Why Small Displays Still Matter
- A Full Smartphone Experience in a Small Package
- Progress Toward a Market Release
- Pricing and Buyer Considerations
- Strong Crowdfunding Support
- Potential Influence on the Smartphone Market
- A Refreshing Change in Smartphone Design
Mainstream brands have not released a truly compact smartphone in several years. The ASUS Zenfone 10, launched in 2023, was one of the last notable examples. Since then, the Zenfone lineup moved toward larger displays in 2024, and with ASUS stepping back from phone launches in 2026, options for small-phone enthusiasts have grown even scarcer.
A Compact Phone Concept Appears at CES
Against this backdrop, CES introduced an unexpected entry into the compact phone space. One smaller manufacturer showcased a new approach that keeps the device small while borrowing ideas from modern small-screen experiences.
The device is the MindOne Pro, developed by Ikko, a Hong Kong-based technology company previously focused on earbuds and earphones.
Introducing the Ikko MindOne Pro
The MindOne Pro is described as a “card-sized phone” featuring a 4-inch, near-square display. It includes a 50MP camera mounted on a flip-up hinge for selfies and is equipped with AI tools that can access free internet connectivity in 60 regions, including the US, UK, and Australia.
Its most striking feature is its compact display, which stands out at a time when smartphones continue to grow larger.
A Modern Take on a Small Form Factor
While compact, the MindOne Pro is not a traditional small phone in the classic sense. Its square-like screen gives it a look similar to devices such as the Galaxy Z Flip 7 or Motorola Razr, without the folding mechanism. The phone measures 86mm x 72mm and is 8.9mm thick, excluding the flip-up camera module.
This design approach may appeal to users who appreciate the functionality of flip phone cover displays.
Why Small Displays Still Matter
Compact displays can be useful for quick tasks such as checking information, watching short content, or interacting with apps without distraction. Many users already rely on cover screens on folding phones for these purposes.
TechRadar places significant importance on cover displays, even maintaining a dedicated category for the best cover display in its list of the best folding phones. The MindOne Pro appears to offer a similar experience without requiring a foldable design.
A Full Smartphone Experience in a Small Package
The MindOne Pro is positioned as a middle ground between minimalist phones and full-featured smartphones. It runs Android 15 alongside Ikko’s AI OS companion software, allowing access to essential everyday apps. However, it remains unclear how well all apps will be optimized for the phone’s unusual screen shape.
Progress Toward a Market Release
The MindOne project was previously covered on TechRadar Pro, but its appearance at CES provided a clearer look at the hardware and suggested stronger momentum toward an official release.
Although the Ikko MindOne’s Kickstarter campaign concluded in August 2025, the device has not yet shipped. Company estimates currently point to a February 2026 release.
A non-Pro version is also planned, featuring standard tempered glass instead of sapphire glass and excluding free internet access for AI tools, though no launch date has been confirmed.
Pricing and Buyer Considerations
As with any crowdfunded product, caution is advised. While the MindOne Pro presents an interesting concept, it is generally recommended to wait until the device is commercially available.
The phone is priced at $499, £379, or AU$759, excluding early-bird offers. While relatively affordable for a niche device, it still represents a significant investment.
Strong Crowdfunding Support
The Kickstarter campaign raised HK$11.5 million, equivalent to approximately $1.4 million US dollars at the time of writing. Ikko has also previously delivered a crowdfunded product, the ActiveBuds earphones, which may offer additional reassurance to backers.
Potential Influence on the Smartphone Market
The success of the MindOne Pro could draw attention from larger smartphone manufacturers. While major brands like Apple are unlikely to pursue this exact form factor, similar concepts could emerge from companies already experimenting with unconventional designs.
Chinese manufacturers such as Xiaomi, known for design experimentation, may be particularly well positioned to explore this category further.
A Refreshing Change in Smartphone Design
While future developments remain speculative, devices like the MindOne Pro highlight renewed creativity in smartphone design. After a period dominated by similar-looking phones, compact and unconventional devices offer a welcome alternative.
If successfully delivered, the MindOne Pro could signal renewed interest in smaller smartphones and inspire further innovation in the category.
ALSO READ: Alibaba’s Qwen AI App Crosses 100 Million Users With Major Upgrade
