Türkiye eyes first domestic smartphone in early 2027

Taylan Özgür Dil - ISTANBUL

Türkiye’s first domestic smartphones, developed by defense giant ASELSAN alongside Türk Telekom and TTT İnovasyon, are set to launch their first three models in early 2027.

According to Turkish World Business Council Chairman Aydın Erkoç and Deputy Chairman Niyazi Berktaş, who are leading the project under the council, the lineup will include a high-end encrypted model exclusively for public employees, an affordable model aimed at the wider public and a more advanced premium version.

All three devices are planned to feature satellite antennas to maintain communications during natural disasters such as earthquakes and other emergencies. They will also be resistant to water and dust, while critical national-security software will be developed domestically with encryption.

The project has been in development for around three years, with work accelerating through cooperation between ASELSAN and Türk Telekom. Erkoç said the devices are being designed to meet modern standards in processing power, memory and battery life while remaining accessible to consumers.

The first production facility will be established in Istanbul, with plans to add another factory and production lines within one to two years. The companies also aim to increase the domestic share of the software annually, starting with locally developed software and eventually moving toward a fully domestic operating system.

The project’s most immediate priority will be the encrypted model for public employees, with deliveries expected to begin first. The phones are planned to reach consumers through telecommunications operators as well as technology retailers.

A further goal is to integrate the smartphones into Türkiye’s domestic digital ecosystem. Developers are working to make the devices’ user interface compatible with the digital ecosystem and interface of Togg, Türkiye’s domestically developed electric vehicle brand.

Erkoç said efforts to establish a brand for the phones and appoint a chief executive officer are continuing. The launch ceremony is also expected to be attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.