Frequently Asked Questions

RetroLink connects compatible analog telephones to a private calling network through a RetroLink device. Use a phone you already enjoy, then call other registered RetroLink numbers.

RetroLink was created to give today's kids a screen-free, focused way to socialize with friends. Real phones make conversation direct and distraction-free, without feeds, notifications, or endless scrolling. Kids can choose a handset style they enjoy, from rotary to touch-tone and vintage to modern, making the experience more personal than using the same app interface.

Families can choose Friends-only calling to limit who can call or be called, adding a more private way to connect without social media.

You need a RetroLink device, an analog telephone, and a working Wi-Fi internet connection. Calls use the internet connection rather than a traditional phone line.

1. On the node, choose Settings > Wi-Fi > AP Setup.
2. On your phone or computer, join the temporary RetroLinkXXXX network. The last four characters are from the node's board ID; the Wi-Fi password is retrolink.
3. Open the setup page shown by your device, or browse to http://192.168.4.1/.
4. Enter your home Wi-Fi name (SSID) and password, then save. For a new node, leave the SIP settings unchanged; they are provided after you claim the pairing code.

The temporary setup network closes while the node reconnects to your Wi-Fi. Once connected, its pairing code appears on the display. You can then create an account and claim the node.

AP Setup uses a fixed temporary password and a local HTTP page, so do this in a trusted place and disconnect from the setup network when finished. Alternatively, put a WIFI.TXT file in the SD card root with the SSID on line one and password on line two before booting the node.

Connect the device to Wi-Fi and let it announce itself. It will display a pairing code. Create an account, enter that code, and choose an available phone number. The device receives its calling settings automatically.

Create an account or register a device.

RetroLink is designed for standard analog phones, including pulse-dial rotary phones and touch-tone phones.

Yes. Multiple phones can share one RetroLink device and its assigned number.

RetroLink connects registered RetroLink devices and their assigned numbers through its private SIP network.

No. RetroLink is a closed network and cannot place or receive calls to or from standard public phone numbers. 911 and other emergency services are unreachable through RetroLink.

Each device has separate inbound and outbound settings. Choose Open calling or Friends only. With Friends only, calls are allowed only for accepted friends.

Add a RetroLink number from your device's Friends page. The other person must accept the invitation before the friendship is active. Either person can remove the friendship later.

Calls travel over RetroLink's encrypted SIP backbone. RetroLink does not collect or share call data. Account and device information is covered on our Privacy page.

No. The RetroLink device needs power and an active Wi-Fi internet connection to place or receive calls.

Dial 600 for the echo test. Dial *65 to hear the caller-ID number the calling system sees for your call.

Yes. Each device has its own identity, credentials, settings, and phone number. Manage them from My Nodes.

Open the device in My Nodes and choose the removal option. Use the normal removal flow when the device is online, or force removal if it is lost or offline. Removing a device releases its number. A registered device must be removed from its current account before it can be claimed again.