Get them while they’re hot?

Balmuda is a company in Japan that is known for developing the humidifying toaster oven a couple of years back. From there, the company has grown to make other household appliances like fans and vacuum cleaners. But why are we reporting about them? Turns out, the next product they’re planning to release is an Android smartphone.

Partnering with Kyocera, the 5G-enabled device is made specifically for Softbank, a network in Japan but a SIM-free version is also being planned. While it will house the typical Android apps, certain proprietary apps made for everyday use are also being teased.

We’re kind of left in the dark though since there is no mention about the design or the hardware that will power the smartphone. Balmuda mentioned that it is trialling the release of the device to see if there is enough interest, and would probably scale up production if the feedback is positive.

Gizmodo reports that the iPhone is the most popular smartphone in Japan, and Android smartphones that are as niche as the one being released by Balmuda normally won’t be as popular. But given how their toasters became one of the most popular household appliances, I’m sure they’ll be up for the challenge.