AI-gen trailer sparks fan backlash for the Commodore Callback 8020 amid price cut

Surprisingly, Commodore has taken a detour from its C64 Ultimate and other retro computers, announcing a retro-themed Y2K flip phone called the Commodore Callback 8020. Commodore has marketed and advertised the upcoming flip phone, which was initially announced at a staggering $499, priced higher than even what a refurbished iPhone 16e runs for on Amazon, as a “digital detox” dumb phone that aims to limit distractions like social media and web browsing while running Linux-based SailfishOS under the hood and supporting Android apps.

After mixed feedback from its fans, Commodore listened to the community and has now officially opened pre-orders at $399. According to the company’s new CEO, Christian Simpson, early feedback has been “overwhelmingly positive” even after the recent price adjustment of the Commodore Callback 8020.

In an official announcement (via PR Newswire), Simpson stated:

“The early response to the Callback 8020 has surpassed even our wildest expectations. Between the hundreds of articles we’ve seen in the press, TV and radio appearances, and the thousands of customers who signed up to be notified when pre-orders open, we’re absolutely bowled over with excitement. Not just for Commodore, but for the future. Early interest has validated everything we’ve been feeling at Commodore: that, like us, the world is ready to step away from the hypnotic, fear-inducing, data-stealing devices that have come to define modern life over the last two decades.”

For pre-order day, Commodore offered a further $50 discount via the promo code “CHICKENLIPS” for those on the waitlist, potentially dropping the entry point for early birds to $349, which is still quite expensive for a Linux-based flip phone in 2026.

A Gen AI problem that has fans riled up

However, the latest promotional marketing video, which featured music from Gregory Dillon and a few “simulated” AI sections, has turned away a few eager customers. Reactions to the video have been mixed among viewers, as it heavily uses generative AI.

Commodore has already been transparent about its AI policy on its website and has tried its best to address fan concerns, but to no avail. Commodore’s FAQ policy reads:

“We use AI sparingly, responsibly, transparently, and only where it adds meaningful value without disenfranchising people… We use locally hosted AI wherever possible, reducing reliance on online server-based systems. AI helps us improve workflows, clean up audio, assist with image correction, and place team-created renders into visual scenarios while physical products are finalized. We still hire artists, designers, editors, and artisans.”