Would you mind sharing how recently and on what phone model? I had it on a Nexus 5 using version 18.04 and the battery life was indeed awful. I upgraded to a Pixel 3a and then the developers re-based the OS to 20.04, and now it seems to be lasting much, much longer on a charge. I admit I don’t use it daily though, since I’m in one of the markets that needs VoLTE. This is just my perception.

It depends on the specific model, but Ubuntu Touch will run on some Pixel phones and at least used to support running Android apps using Anbox or Waydroid.

The biggest problem with it is that VoLTE is not supported yet on Qualcomm chipset phones (of which the Pixel is one). The developers are definitely working on that, but they a very small team of volunteers so they can only move so fast. For now that means Ubuntu touch phones in some markets, such as the USA and India, cannot make or receive calls on the mobile network.

Mobile data works though so there are workarounds using VoIP or services such as Telegram or Signal if you’re wanting voice capability.

If you really want the retro experience, you can get a modern USB version of the original IBM Model M keyboard from Unicomp (https://pckeyboard.com). I believe these are made on the same equipment that made the Model M back in the day. Buckling spring keys, metal frame, huge, heavy, and loud. Lots of configuration options and the only lights on them are the (admittedly annoyingly bright blue) lock status LEDs. I’ve used an original Model M and own one of these. They’re amazing.

Oof! Guess I should have looked at that.

Not sure if this meets your needs but you might check out DoorBird. They claim to work with several NAS solutions and have an API, as well as the usual phone- and tablet-notification and communication through their own service.