Received Brax3 What now?

So I finally received my phone, am I supposed to take the SIM card out of my existing phone and install that to the Brax? Or am I supposed to get a second SIM card from T-Mobile who I have an account with? Or do I get a virtual Sim? Or does the phone work as a phone without a Sim? I have not turned it on yet because I am afraid to set it up without a phone number. I’m not quite sure how it works. i’m kind of scared to do anything that might identify it with my name, like logging into my Wi-Fi. Any help and or suggestions is greatly appreciated. Thank you very much.

3 Likes

Yes, you can use the BraX3 as a WiFi device only and stay off the cellular networks. Be sure to remember that if you are utilizing cellular service, your device will be identified on the network. If you have your account established in your real name with your payment information, then you will be associated to the device. The only way around this is to use an MVNO (like Cricket, Boost, Metro PCS, ect.) because you can often give them fictitious names to set up your account. You can also pay your bill in cash at their locations if you want to keep your billing information off the books.

This is cumbersome, but if your threat model requires it, then it may be your only option.

5 Likes

Hi @Yankawop. I’m going to try to help you by explaining a bit, although @blaster has already given you wise advice. The BRAX3, in terms of functionality, is a completely normal phone—camera, bluetooth, wifi, fingerprint sensor, the option to set it up with one or two SIMs… The main difference between the BRAX3 and other devices is its iODE OS, which allows you to enjoy a 21st-century phone but with privacy, without giving away your data to third parties or leaking it—or yes, but knowing exactly what you share and with whom at any given moment.

From there, each user has their own preferences and personal needs and should proceed accordingly. For example, right now I have an iPhone 16 PM and from time to time I switch to a Pixel Pro XL with GrapheneOS. Why did I buy the BraX3? I want to make it my main phone for daily use and put aside the Apple world to gain privacy and control over my data. I’m also quite curious when it comes to technology, so I’m really looking forward to experimenting with IodeOS and forming my own opinion about the operating system.

Best regards.

4 Likes

If youre an average Joe like me I would just use your existing sim and carry on. Add a prepay sim from different network if you wish. I run my Brax2 like that. Its not logging into apps and checking permissions where you will limit the data flow. Install multiple browsers, make any data leaks into useless info. Good luck.

5 Likes

I want more info on this.

Buying a, let’s say, prepaid att sim with cash at let’s say walmart. And that’s a second sim card, but how would you them run a standard att sim that is what you’ve had for like, 6 years?

What are thy risks there? Does that mean you can run 2 numbers as well?

1 Like

I run 2 sims for network coverage in the mountains. Yes two numbers, works great, choose which sim when dialling out, super easy. Accept that approx location is tracked on sims, how would a call find you? Spend 20 bucks and try it, make sure its a different network, same network no bueno

1 Like

You can run two sims on same network but one must be always turned off , in Network connections you can make one inactive. I run two different networks, always on. Text and calls prompt to choose when sending if no default for that contact is set. Cheers

2 Likes

does b3 hold 2 physical sims?

1 Like

1 physical, 1 esim, and one microSD

2 Likes

Guardian241 is correct, despite what Rob said about esim this is what we get. When I ordered it was dual sim just like my brax2. So now I will only have a single sim phone again. I guess the new plan would be get your regular number on an esim which leaves you one you can physically swap out. To say the change has left a sour taste is an understatement.

2 Likes

Oh. Yes I had thought it had slots for 2 physical SIMs (from an early image) and supported multiple eSIMs. First item may have been my mistake from misinterpreting how the MicroSD is inserted (thinking it was second SIM slot), but had hoped to have minimum 2 eSIM, ideally 3 if possible (as I’m still using a physical SIM for my personal number, have a work eSIM, and wanted to add a new private eSIM; plus eventually migrate my physical to an eSIM if possible).

2 Likes

In the same boat with you, Yankawop. Wondering how to best provide connection service without compromising privacy.
Since Brax offers these Brax Virtual Phone Calls and SMS plans, I was wondering whether this would be a more anonymous way to connect, if it is compatible with the Brax3?
Hoping someone who knows will offer perspective here.

1 Like

Here you have an esay and interesting setup guide from Rob

https://x.com/rob_braxman/status/1954573457041371371

2 Likes