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Quasar IV: Supersecure Android ninja phone (pictures)

Based on encryption algorithms years in the making, the security of this self-funded Android smartphone throws down the gauntlet to data thieves.

Jessica Dolcourt
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Jessica Dolcourt
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Security at Quasar IV's heart, plus specs to spare

A self-funded Indiegogo project with lofty goals vows to do the following: create the most secure Android smartphone on the planet. It's calling this wonder device the Quasar IV.
QuasarIV_top.jpg
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Built like a fortress

With a heavy emphasis on layers of software-based and local encryption, the prototype's physical design reinforces the message of strength with hard edges and a thick, blocky form.
QuasarIV_bottom.jpg
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Ports aplenty

Ports take up an unusual position on the phone's base.
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Leaving its mark

QSAlpha marks the top of its prototype phone and stylizes the 13-megapixel dual-lens camera openings.
QuasarIV_BackBottom.jpg
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Back view

Brushed aluminum and a snappy motif signify the bottom of this new phone.
QuasarIV_LefSpine.jpg
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Waterproof

Screws near the volume rocker reinforce the device's waterproof rating.
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Front-facing camera

From the front, the Quasar IV is an innocent-looking phone. Little do you know, it also contains an unheard-of 8-megapixel front-facing camera.
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Security is in the chips

Hardware chips locally store encrypted data, like calls, texts, and e-mail.
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Innards

A look at the Quasar IV, all broken down.
QuasarIV_password.jpg
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A new spin on Android

Fortifying its security stance, the Quasar IV and QuaOS present a new password grid built on top of Android 4.3.
QuasarIV_appGrid.jpg
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App tray

A buttoned-up look characterizes the phone's app grid.
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Make yourself at home

QSAlpha seems to show off different 3D widgets for customizing home pages.
QuasarIV_Home1.jpg
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Dark themes

There are both dark and light themes.
QuasarIV_Home2.jpg
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More customization

Customization includes wallpaper.
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Drag and drop

You'll be able to place various widgets where you'd like.
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Sketchy past

Sketches demonstrate the evolution of the Quasar IV.
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Internals, too

This set of sketches offers a rare glimpse at the birth of a new smartphone, from the inside out.

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