It was reported at the beginning of this year that HMD Global had discontinued all Nokia-branded smartphones. Now, a new report by PTI reveals that Nokia has agreed to extend its licensing deal with HMD Global for several more years. While HMD Global will not be selling Nokia-branded smartphones, it will continue offering Nokia feature phones. Sources familiar with the matter said the extension will take the arrangement beyond the original expiry date of 2026. Both companies have not commented publicly on the development.
India remains the biggest market for Nokia feature phones
According to the report, HMD Global produces Nokia feature phones in India and China, with India serving as the largest market. The country not only absorbs the highest demand but also acts as an export hub for Nokia-branded devices.
Market data from IDC shows HMD dominates India’s feature phone landscape, with a 22.4 percent share by volume and about 30.7 percent by value. Shipments of feature phones in the country reached nearly 54 million units in 2024, underscoring the scale of demand that sustains Nokia’s presence.
For Nokia, extending the agreement secures its brand relevance in a segment it once defined worldwide. For HMD, the continued access to Nokia branding strengthens its presence in rural and urban markets where the name still resonates deeply.
Sources added that HMD’s future strategy involves expanding into HMD-branded smartphones, tablets, and potential collaborations with other companies, reducing its reliance on Nokia while continuing to build on the heritage of the brand. The extension effectively allows both companies to maintain operational stability in a market that remains central to global feature phone sales.
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(source)
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