After resurrecting an iconic PC brand, Commodore is getting into flip phones

Commodore International, under new ownership led by Christian Simpson, announced its entry into the mobile phone market with the upcoming launch of the Commodore PET phone on November 15, 2024. This move marks a significant diversification for the resurrected PC brand, which previously focused on reviving its iconic home computer line. The PET phone is designed to evoke nostalgia for the original Commodore PET computer, featuring a clamshell or "flip phone" form factor. While specific technical specifications remain undisclosed, Commodore has indicated that the device will incorporate retro-inspired design elements and potentially offer features appealing to fans of vintage technology. Simpson acquired the remnants of Commodore in 2025 with the stated goal of continuing the company's legacy in personal computing and technology. The company's initial efforts since the acquisition involved developing new iterations of its classic computers, but the PET phone represents a strategic pivot into a different consumer electronics segment. The announcement follows a period of quiet development since Simpson's acquisition, with the company now signaling a more public-facing product strategy. Commodore aims to leverage its historical brand recognition to capture a niche market segment interested in retro-themed devices.