HMD Unveils Inaugural Self-Branded Mobile Devices, Focusing on Affordability and Repairability
HMD, the manufacturer behind Nokia-branded phones, has stepped into the spotlight with the launch of its first-ever self-branded mobile devices. These budget-friendly handsets prioritize both affordability and repairability, marking a significant move for the Finnish company.
In a strategic shift announced back in September, HMD revealed its plans to introduce an original line of mobile devices bearing the HMD brand, distinct from its Nokia lineup. Now, the company has unveiled four new models: the HMD Pulse, HMD Pulse Plus, HMD Pulse Pro, and HMD Vibe, with the latter set to make its debut in the US market at an attractive price point of $149.
The Pulse series shares core features across its variants, boasting a Unisoc T606 chipset, a sizable 6.65-inch LCD screen with a 720p+ panel and a 90Hz refresh rate. Additionally, HMD emphasizes their commitment to longevity by providing Android 14 out of the box along with a promise of 2 OS updates and 3 years of security patches.
Key features of the Pulse lineup include 4G connectivity, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC, and GPS/Galileo. The devices are designed with practicality in mind, featuring 3.5mm headphone jacks, USB-C charging, and a range of vibrant colour options.
The base model, Pulse, offers a 13MP primary camera, IP52-rated dust and water resistance, and a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery that can be easily replaced. With options for 4GB or 6GB of RAM and expandable storage via microSD card slot, the Pulse is priced at €140/£100.
Meanwhile, the Pulse Plus and Pulse Pro models offer enhancements such as a 50MP rear camera and improved selfie capabilities, catering to varying user preferences. The Vibe, tailored for the US market, features a Snapdragon 680 SoC, a 90Hz display, and a competitive price tag of $149.
With these new offerings, HMD aims to carve out a niche in the mobile market by providing consumers with accessible yet feature-rich devices, setting the stage for further innovation and expansion in the future.
