B08
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T9 Chess

Open source chess application for phones with a traditional T9 keypad.

year2026 rolesolo stackFlutter statusin progress

Problem

I switched to an Android-based keypad phone to cut my screen time, but I missed playing chess on it.

Solution

So I built T9 Chess: A fully working chess app designed for a traditional T9 keypad. You can play locally against a friend or a chess engine and online against other players via the built in Lichess client.

Fun fact: B08, takes its name from the Pirc Defense — B08 is the opening’s ECO code and my favourite opening.

Try it

No touchscreen — navigate the board with the D-pad, just like on the real phone.

White to move
T9 CHESS

Move the cursor with the D-pad, press OK to pick up a piece and again on a highlighted square to move it. Arrow keys + Enter work too.