Purism has launched a crowdfunding campaign for the Librem 5 V2, the second generation of its privacy-focused Linux smartphone. The new model switches from ARM to RISC-V architecture, introduces upgraded hardware, and continues to run PureOS, a Debian Linux-based operating system rather than Android.
The biggest hardware change is the eight-core SpacemiT K1 RISC-V processor, replacing the first Librem 5’s quad-core NXP ARM64 chip. According to Purism, the new processor should deliver better performance, lower temperatures, and longer battery life, addressing the original device’s main limitations.
Memory has increased from 3GB to 8GB, while internal storage is set at 128GB. The phone features a 5.7-inch display with a resolution of 720 × 1440 pixels, a 13MP rear camera, an 8MP front camera, and a removable 4,500mAh battery.
Other improvements include dual SIM support, faster microSD storage with speeds up to 80 MB/s compared to the first model’s 10–14 MB/s, and hardware-assisted video encoding.
Despite these upgrades, Purism is retaining the original Librem 5 chassis and modular design. The phone continues to offer replaceable cellular and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth modules, a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB-C connectivity, and three physical hardware kill switches that can disable cellular connectivity, wireless networking, and the microphone and cameras.
On the software side, the Librem 5 V2 will run PureOS, providing a native Linux environment with access to applications such as Firefox, Chromium, GIMP, and Inkscape. Purism also plans to support selected proprietary and Android applications through sandboxing, although this functionality will require additional development.
However, Purism acknowledges that RISC-V support is not yet mature enough for a fully functional PureOS smartphone. The project calls for extensive work on graphics acceleration, mainline Linux kernel drivers, power management, browser efficiency, and ARM64 application emulation. In particular, complete 3D graphics support and optimization remain unfinished.
As for pricing, the Librem 5 V2 costs $1,599, with an alternative payment plan requiring $129 upfront followed by 15 monthly payments of $99. Purism is targeting 2,500 orders through its crowdfunding campaign, which runs until February 15, 2027.
The development schedule calls for beta hardware to reach participating backers in the fourth quarter of 2027, followed by production testing and mass production. Purism targets delivery approximately 15 months after the campaign closes, placing the expected release around May 2028.
For more information, including the complete technical specifications, crowdfunding options, and development roadmap, visit the Librem 5 V2 campaign page.
Image credits: Purism
