HMD, the company behind the Nokia brand, has made a series of announcements today revealing plans for several new devices this summer. Among them are a Barbie-branded flip phone, a retro Nokia feature phone, an HMD-branded smartphone, and the introduction of a new development platform called “HMD Fusion”.
HMD’s Barbie flip phone, iconic Nokia phone
HMD announced that the Barbie flip phone is a work in collaboration with toy maker Mattel. Mattel is a company famous for the Barbie fashion doll collection, a popular line of toys and accessories since 1959.
The Barbie phone is set to launch this summer and will be a classic flip phone that “promises style, nostalgia, and a much-needed digital detox”, according to an HMD press release.
In addition to the Barbie phone, HMD is also gearing up to launch another phone under its own brand. Although details are scarce, a leak last month revealed the images of an upcoming HMD phone. Previous reports also suggest that HMD is already working on 9 different smartphones.
Moreover, HMD also reassured consumers that Nokia devices are here to stay, despite recent speculation about their discontinuation.
Earlier rumors suggested HMD might be ditching Nokia branding since the license for the brand is expiring in 2026. However, HMD Global today clarified that Nokia phones will remain available in the market.
Additionally, HMD revealed its plan to reintroduce “an iconic phone this summer.” They also hinted at a lineup of new phone brands coming out over the course of 2024.
HMD Fusion – a DIY platform for tinkerers and focus on repairability
A highlight of the announcement is HMD Fusion, a smartphone-style device aimed at DIY enthusiasts. The device features connection points for building, programming, and connecting custom hardware accessories.
These accessories, as described by the company in the press release, can range from simple items like fashionable outfits or extended battery packs to more complex devices like payment terminals, barcode scanners, or portable medical equipment.
Below are some prototype images of HMD Fusion accessories shared by the company.
However, do note that these are just prototypes, not the actual device. HMD actually wants users to pitch in their ideas, opening the door to all sorts of possibilities.
They’re banking on users’ creativity to take this concept to the next level, providing a platform for innovative thinking.
For this, the company has also released the first version toolkit for developers and businesses, which contains design files and information on software integration
Rounding out the announcement, the company emphasized its focus on sustainability and phone repairability.
Currently, in Europe and Australia/New Zealand, repairable devices constituted one-quarter of HMD’s 2023 smartphone sales. HMD hopes to increase this to three-quarters of sales in those markets, and half of all global sales this year.
Furthermore, the company announced plans to streamline screen repair processes. Specifically, HMD is looking to promote a “FIY” (Fix it Yourself) movement to empower users to handle repairs more easily.
Related:
- HMD Legend, LegendPro arrive on Geekbench with Unisoc chip
- HMD’s website hosts all Nokia phones, tablets starting from February 1st
- Get Redmi K70 Pro for discounted price of $499
- Xiaomi 13 Ultra Premium Camera Phone is now only $799
- Lenovo Legion Y700 2023: Save $100 on this 8-inch gaming Android tablet
