

Unfortunately, by default the 8110 also has Google Chrome and YouTube as non-deletable core apps. Though the phone is fortunately so clunky these apps are virtually unusable, I still wanted them gone. Fortunately there is a way to gain administrator control by plugging the phone into a PC and installing some software on it to unlock full functionality, a process known as ‘rooting’ (for more detailed instructions see here). Now my 8110 just has my contacts, SMS, a clock, a camera, and WhatsApp. Just how I want it.
So what about my now-redundant smartphone?
Ideally, I wanted to transform it from a distraction portal into a tool for constructive tasks like note-taking and listening to podcasts. I wanted a device I wouldn’t always take out with me, but could slip in my bag if I was expecting to have some extended time to kill (e.g. on a train, or in an airport), and wanted to get some writing done, or listen to something informative.
- Evernote
- ESV Bible
- Stitcher (podcasts)
- Amazon Music
- Soundcloud
- Camera
- Voice Recorder
- Atmosphere (white noise)
