HMD Global, the company behind Nokia-branded smartphones, unveiled a concept called Fusion at MWC2024. 

Details have been scarce, but Fusion appears to be a return to the modular phone concept, with a base unit and attachable “smart outfits” that expand the phone’s functionality.

The idea isn’t entirely new. Motorola’s Moto Mods offered a similar approach back in 2016, and the concept stretches back even further to Jolla’s phone in 2014. While these attempts haven’t gained significant traction, HMD hopes for a different outcome.

HMD has released a development toolkit and renderings showcasing potential accessories designs, but their concrete details remain limited. 

However, HMD is now hyping things up via social media posts in Australia, Benelux, and France. The company shared a graphic of a smartphone with add-ons in it. 

The text on the bottom left shows a “Coming Soon” tagline hinting that the company may soon debut its first Fusion phones in these regions.

Only time will tell if HMD can overcome the challenges that plagued previous modular phone attempts. Key questions remain: Will there be enough compelling smart outfits to justify the Fusion system?  Can HMD ensure a smooth user experience with the modular design?

HMD Fusion is not new but an interesting concept, however, its future hinges on addressing past failures of modular phones. With a well-designed base phone, a robust developer community, and practical smart outfits, Fusion could revolutionize phone customization. 

However, without careful planning and execution, it risks becoming another forgotten footnote in smartphone history.

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