[maufl]

Can anyone estimate what it would cost to develop a new phone that's like the N900 with updated hardware (slide out keyboard, camera cover, maybe drop the input stylus, a bit flatter and larger) and mainline Linux support for all components? I'm sometimes wondering if this is something I could have Pine64 do if I accidentally get rich enough. I think I would spent the rest of my days just writing the software for this.

[mpol]

First question is; which SOC would you want to use? Is there any SOC with full mainline support that you would agree to? There is a reason Pine64 and Purism went with SOCs out of the ordinary path.

[asimovfan]

I believe everyone has similar fantasies. Your best bet is a custom made mini laptop with a x86_64 SoC with perhaps 18650 batteries or thin easily replaceable battery packs..

I believe the GPD Pocket is also x86_64.

[tmtvl]

Considering there's a bunch of stuff you'd have to manufacture from scratch I'm gonna say... 500 million USD? If you're okay with outsourcing a bunch of stuff to China and treading on gray areas where patents are concerned. Unfortunately it's gonna take a few more years before various mobile phone patents start expiring.