Would it be possible to use Linux PC working with - for example - Quectel modem broken out on a PCB with a SIM card slot and an antenna as a substitute for a phone? More specifically:
- are linux drivers for such modems readily available? The ones I’ve been working with are basically USB devices, they work with raspberry pis but I have no idea if the drivers are custom/propertiary and if you can phone/send SMS through them. In the application I’ve seen they only provide access to the internet.
- do linux apps working as contact list/dialer/SMS receiver/sender exist?
I’m tired of buying new phone every few years and more and more of control various OS owners want over devices, and I don’t care if I would look like a mad man using a weird/ugly/inconvenient device as long as I can mix and match components and repair it myself. Just wanted to ask in case if anybody happens to know answers to the questions above.
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Here’s a write-up I read not too long ago and answers many of your questions, though the author is mostly concerned with getting data access going. Short answer is yes, most will “just work” provided you use the correct modes and configs.
https://www.jeffgeerling.com/blog/2022/using-4g-lte-wireless-modems-on-raspberry-pi/
do linux apps working as contact list/dialer/SMS receiver/sender exist?
Those all fall under what’s called the IMS (IP Multimedia Subsystem) and is often problematic implementing in open source. If I recall, Ubuntu Touch has a (mostly?) working IMS implementation but I don’t recall if it’s universally functional or limited to specific devices/carriers. Some WWAN cards will allow calls/texts, but those are usually in “3G” mode which is rapidly disappearing as carriers switch to VoLTE or VoNR/Vo5G (which are basically just fancy VoIP).
If you’re willing to forego traditional carrier voice/messaging, you can use any number of messaging apps that work on Linux and/or combine that with a 3rd party VoIP provider for PSTN calling/phone number and SMS/MMS. Just don’t expect to get RCS messaging going; even on Android proper, you’re limited to Google Messages only.
Thank you a lot, that is exactly the starting point and keywords I need to search further!
GNOME Chatty should just work for SMS if the modem is supported.
Not quite what you’re asking, but I use JMP.chat. As long as there is some form of data connection (WiFi/4G/5G), desktop messaging works very well. My numbers are all now portable, usable from any device.
The service can provide a phone number, and connect it to an xmpp (jabber) server, or one is provided (Snikket) by JMP if you’re a customer. There are a few xmpp clients for Linux such as Gajim, Dino, or JMP’s own alpha PWA at app.cheogram.com. Calling from the desktop still has some hitches as some apps don’t yet support voice over xmpp, but I rarely use voice so not a big deal for my situation. Also, the Cheogram android app is excellent.
Interesting angle, thank you!
Yes, jmp.chat is cool, unfortunately North American numbers, I’d love the same from the EU, if that exists.
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How much space does it need to use? 4G router and a regular PC gives you internet anywhere. Mine can send/receive SMS on the router using the webUI. Data obviously allows using anything online.
What do you even need a phone for if you have internet already?
