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The HMD Fusion X1's operating system lets parents block access during school hours or bedtime, whitelist pre-approved contacts that can call, and see when their children leave designated safe areas. Social media and web browsers are also within the parent's control, a significant feature at a time of growing concern about internet content.
Governments around the world are implementing measures to address potential online dangers for children, with Australia taking the most direct action by banning people under 16 from social networks. Studies for years have shown that smartphones can have an impact on kids' safety, mental health and academic performance. In Europe, France and Denmark have banned phones at schools for students under a certain age.
HMD, which is based in Espoo, Finland, has built up a portfolio of devices aimed at addressing gaps in the market. Beside smartphones, the company sells a selection of simpler feature phones, including one co-branded with Mattel Inc.'s Barbie. It's also among FC Barcelona's sponsors.
The Fusion X1 will be on sale in May at a price between $250 and $300, the company said.
Established vendors of so-called starter smartphones for children include Pinwheel and Gabb, which have been selling such devices for more than five years. Light Phone, which caters more to adults in search of a break from smartphones, also has partnerships with various schools.
Still, the market for basic feature phones is only a small fraction of the overall industry and shrinking. North America saw one of the steepest declines in sales of feature phones, decreasing 38% between 2023 and 2024, while western Europe saw an 11% drop, according to Counterpoint Research.
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