Company: Volla Systeme
Interviewee: Dr. Jörg Wurzer, Founder and Managing Director

Website: https://volla.online/en/

Designing Digital Freedom with Privacy and Purpose

In a world where smartphones are designed primarily to extract data and demand attention, Volla is forging a new path. Based in Germany, Volla Systeme GmbH is building more than just devices; it’s building a movement toward digital autonomy, ethical technology, and human-centered design.

Founded by Dr. Jörg Wurzer, Volla is redefining the mobile experience with its open-source operating system, Volla OS, and its Ubuntu Touch–powered devices. Volla’s phones and tablets are more than alternatives; they’re statements of digital independence.

Empowering People Through Simplicity and Security

“Technology should simplify your life—not dominate it,” explains Dr. Wurzer. At the core of Volla’s mission is the belief that freedom comes from simplicity and security. Volla OS offers a clean, distraction-free interface and emphasizes zero data collection. Users don’t need accounts, no telemetry is tracked, and all system apps are open-source replacements designed for transparency and control.

One of the flagship features, Security Mode, lets users instantly block all internet access, turning their phone into a secure offline device. When combined with the Volla Cloud, which is powered by the decentralized technology of Holochain, users can back up, store, and sync their data while maintaining full control and avoiding third-party dependencies.

“Technology should simplify your life—not dominate it.”

From Open Source to Open Dialogue

Openness isn’t just about code; it’s about community. Volla’s development process relies on input from users via GitHub, Telegram, online forums, and Volla Community Days. There, developers, partners, and customers collaborate to shape the future of the platform.

“We often receive personal messages and vacation photos from users with their Volla phones. That connection is incredibly rewarding,” says Wurzer. User feedback has directly inspired many Volla OS features and continues to shape the roadmap. It’s working: The company has reported a 60% increase in turnover and has a loyal and growing user base, including professionals from sensitive sectors like healthcare who are drawn to Volla’s commitment to privacy.

Sustainability by Design and Innovating from the Ground Up

For Volla, sustainability is a technical and ethical imperative. Devices are built to last with high-quality components, extended security updates, and easily accessible replacement parts. By reducing dependency on data centers and enabling local data processing, Volla OS cuts mobile data traffic by up to 80%, dramatically lowering energy use.

Since launching its first generation of phones in 2020, Volla has continued to provide regular updates, demonstrating that a long-term software lifecycle is possible and profitable.

From its crowdfunding beginnings to the launch of Volla MeshNet, Volla has embraced bold innovation. MeshNet is a new decentralized communications technology that creates a hybrid system for secure, peer-to-peer connectivity—no telecom operators required. Starting with a mobile hotspot is the first step in building a larger infrastructure of digital independence.

This initiative complements the Volla Cloud and extends the company’s vision of creating a fully self-sufficient mobile ecosystem where users own their data, tools, and connections.

Partnerships with a Shared Vision and Advice for Ethical Tech Startups

Collaboration is key to Volla’s strategy. The company works closely with other European innovators, such as Murena, and engages with like-minded foundations to promote technologies that respect privacy and are ethical.

However, as Dr. Wurzer notes, success hasn’t come without challenges. “We operate without venture capital. Crowdfunding has helped us stay close to our community, but we rely heavily on press coverage and word of mouth for growth. Our marketing budgets are modest, but authenticity resonates.”

Wurzer offers clear advice for newcomers: start small, stay focused, and trust your instincts. “Crowdfunding is more than fundraising—it’s validation. Traditional consultants may not understand your vision if it’s truly innovative. But your users will. Build what you’d want to use yourself.”

He added that the most important thing is to not try to do everything at once, but rather to begin with a focused product and evolve it naturally.

Looking Ahead: A European Vision for Ethical Tech

Volla’s future plans include gradually moving more production processes to Germany, where accessories are already manufactured locally. “It’s a long journey, but we believe it’s a strategic investment in Europe’s digital sovereignty,” Wurzer says.

Their long-term ambition? To contribute to a secure, independent communication infrastructure for Europe spanning devices, data storage, and transmission powered by ethical, user-centered principles.

“It’s a long journey, but we believe it’s a strategic investment in Europe’s digital sovereignty.”