Latest news with #HumanMobileDevices
India.com
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
HMD Announces Return of Barbie-Themed Flip Phone
Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has confirmed a restock of the Barbie Flip Phone, developed in partnership with Mattel. The device features a flip design with a pink exterior and a mirrored front panel. Included with the phone are two interchangeable covers—one referencing the 1992 Totally Hair Barbie and another with a shooting heart graphic. It also comes with accessories such as phone charms, crystal stickers, and a beaded strap. Specifications include a 2.8-inch internal screen and a 1.77-inch external screen. The phone supports dual SIM cards, offers up to nine hours of talk time, and includes expandable storage via microSD card up to 32GB. It also has a 0.3-megapixel camera and runs on the S30+ operating system. The flip phone provides only basic mobile functions. It is being offered through a limited release and is expected to sell quickly based on prior demand. This model is aimed at users seeking devices without advanced smartphone features. HMD is positioning it as part of a broader product offering focused on straightforward functionality.
Khaleej Times
19-03-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE survey: 51% children approached by strangers online
A new study has revealed that more than half of children have been regularly contacted online by someone they don't know and nearly 40 per cent have been exposed to harmful online content, including explicit or violent material. The research done by mobile manufacturing company Human Mobile Devices (HMD) and Perspectus Global, surveyed over 25,000 children and parents in six countries including the UAE. The figures also revealed that one in three children has been asked to take conversations to private messaging apps, and 56 per cent of them reported being insulted or made to feel small online. 'The overall feedback we got was that we are often overprotective of our children in the offline world but are under-protective when they are venturing into the online world,' said Sanmeet Singh Kochhar, Vice President of HMD Global in the AMEA Region. 'This could expose them to the dangers of the online environmen t. So there is an urgent need from parents specifically, to have a guided entrance into the digital world for children.' 'Not surprising' According to Dubai-based educator Hanan Ezzeldin, the figures were not surprising. 'As someone who coaches parents on social media dangers, I have seen my fair share of shocking incidents,' she said. 'In one case I came across, a 13-year-old boy in Dubai had befriended a 19-year-old boy based in Abu Dhabi and asked his parents to meet his new 'friend'. The parents reviewed the messages between them and something didn't feel right. With some investigation they found the that 19-year-old boy was in fact a 40-year-old man who had been speaking to multiple children.' Ezzeldin added that parents must put in place strict rules to keep their children safe online. 'It is absolutely essential that all their social media accounts are set to private,' she said. 'We must also teach them not to chat with unknown people on social media. There are many paedophiles who target youngsters who like and engage with posts of celebrities. Also, parents should make it a practice to ask for consent before posting their children's photos on social media and having proper conversations with them to inculcate good digital media hygiene.' Omer Tariq, CEO of mental health platform Helply, said it was essential for parents to put in place controls when giving their children a device. 'Giving unrestricted phone access to a youngster is like handing them the keys to a world they're not fully prepared for. There's just too much out there—some of it useful, but a lot of it harmful,' he said. He added that children are more likely to develop social media addiction and not understand the risk of privacy. 'Kids can spend hours glued to their phones, affecting their sleep, studies, and even their ability to interact with people in real life,' he said. 'They also don't always understand the risks of sharing personal details online. Whether it's talking to strangers, falling for scams, or unknowingly giving away sensitive information, the dangers are real.' Better phone project HMD is currently preparing to launch a phone built as a 'first step' into the digital world, which they claim is designed to give teens independence while ensuring parents have the controls they need. The Better Phone Project will have parental controls, social media and browser restrictions, GPS tracking and focus mode among other features. The company's research also found that the average age for a child's first smartphone is 11 and that 54 percent of parents regret giving their child a smartphone too soon. 'We spoke to over 12,000 parents and we worked with them to design a solution,' said Sanmeet. 'After nearly a year of research and different focus groups, studies involving families from 87 countries, we developed the HMD Fusion X1. Our goal is to create a technology that grows with the child. So, for example, there could be certain controls for children who are between the ages of 6 and 9. As they grow, we can give them more access. So the technology is then growing with the child, teaching them responsible digital habits.'
Khaleej Times
11-03-2025
- Khaleej Times
HMD Fusion smartphone: One phone, infinite possibilities
Human Mobile Devices (HMD), the parent company of the Nokia brand, forayed into smartphones business under its own name with the launch of HMD Crest in 2024, has introduced another affordable device — HMD Fusion, a groundbreaking smartphone designed with repairability at its core. The gadget immediately catches the eye with its retro-inspired design, repair-friendly build, and 'Smart Outfits'. It stands out in the crowded budget smartphone market as it features a sleek, industrial-chic design, boasting a durable stainless steel-reinforced plastic body. . With the launch of its latest gadget, HMD presents an ever-evolving smartphone that can be self-repaired and last longer than average. While introducing Gen 2 Reparability, HMD Fusion will be among a very selective smartphones, which offer access to screws and battery through the translucent rear panel available in the market. In an era where electronic waste is a pressing concern, the HMD Fusion stands out by prioritising sustainability without compromising performance. Its modular design allows users to easily access and replace key components, such as the battery, screen, and charging port, using simple tools. This empowers consumers to extend the life of their device, reduce waste, and ultimately save money on repairs. HMD Fusion Specifications The HMD Fusion packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC, which is manufactured using the 4nm fabrication process, which should make it good enough for most budget smartphone-related processing requirements. There's also 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, which can be expanded using a shared slot for a microSD card. The phone only offers two SIM card slots, which can accept two nano SIM cards or a SIM card + SD card combination. The Qualcomm chipset provides robust connectivity, supporting several 5G bands, Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi 6, USB Type-C (2.0), and standard global positioning systems. Equipped with a vibrant 6.5-inch HD+IPS LCD panel display with a 90Hz refresh rate, the HMD Fusion delivers a seamless user experience. The device runs on the latest Android version, ensuring optimal performance and access to the latest apps. HMD promises two years of Android updates and three years of security updates, which is slightly underwhelming, but still better than what the real bargain-basement kit offers. The smartphone features a dual-camera system that excels in low-light conditions, capturing stunning photos and videos. HMD Fusion is your pocket-sized studio, featuring a 108MP main camera and a 50MP selfie cam for show-stopping shots. With a powerful 50-megapixel front camera, featuring Selfie Gestures and Selfie Slow-Mo, and a 108-megapixel dual rear camera designed to excel in any lighting condition, speed, or situation, the consumers will always have an opportunity to snap perfect moments. Whether it's a spontaneous selfie or a fast-paced action shot, the HMD Fusion is able to document everyone's life's remarkable moments, effortlessly. The HMD Fusion is equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, which provides enough capacity to last through a full day of moderate use. This battery is supported by 33W fast charging. Sustainability at Affordable Price At just Dh1,099, HMD Fusion 5G strikes a perfect balance between affordability and innovation. The smart gadget is perfectly positioned at the intersection of innovation and accessibility as its sleek, modern aesthetic and cutting-edge features make it the ultimate blend of style and functionality. It is available in all the major outlets in the Middle East. Coming this year, HMD Fusion interchangeable outfits attach seamlessly via six specialised pins, instantly customising the phone's hardware, software, and performance to match style or needs of Gen Z and Millennials who love to embrace technology that speaks to their individuality . The Fusion's commitment to sustainability goes beyond its design. With a focus on environmental impact, this smartphone sets a new standard in the industry. By choosing the Fusion, consumers not only get a high-quality smartphone but also contribute to a greener future, making a conscious choice to combat the growing electronic waste crisis. Tech experts are of the view that HMD Fusion is a fresh take on budget smartphones and the device has a potential to claim a reasonable size of the huge worldwide market. The smartphone is ideal for casual users who enjoy customising their devices and basic functionality. For anyone looking for an affordable and dependable device, it provides passable performance. PROS Unique modular design Good battery life Repairability Clean OS Slim IP54-rated design Well-designed modular accessories Relatively fast charging CONS Poor multimedia experience Only one OS update Software isn't optimised Low quality display Tinny speaker Average battery life — muzaffarrizvi@
Zawya
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
HMD puts the human back in mobile devices at Mobile World Congress 2025
From feature phones to smartphones, HMD introduces an entirely new HMD Family division with human-first design and real input from parents. HMD Fusion X1 debuts HMD's Family portfolio, fostering healthy digital habits in partnership with Xplora, as new research from the HMD Better Phone Project Report suggests a global mental health and safety crisis with the current tech on the market for children. New research from 25,000 children and parents as part of the HMD Better Phone Project Report reveals over half of kids aged 8-12 years old (52%) think they're suffering from phone addiction in 2025. Human Mobile Devices and FC Barcelona announce a double act with the HMD Barça 3210 and HMD Barça Fusion with detox mode. HMD 130 and 150 Music, and HMD 2660 Flip bolster the feature phone portfolio as HMD gains market share following a second year of double-digit growth across the feature phone range. Amped Buds are world-first wireless earbuds with a charging case that wirelessly powers up wireless charging-compatible smartphones. Dubai – HMD, the biggest European mobile manufacturer, has put the human back into the smart story at MWC 2025. HMD debuts a new family portfolio demonstrating better technology for families with the aim to address a global mental health crisis caused by excessive screen time and to support online safety for minors. The first device to launch under the new family umbrella, HMD Fusion X1, is announced following new research unveiled today from HMD, which surveyed 25,000 children and adults from around the world1. The findings reveal more than half of children have been contacted by strangers online. Human Mobile Devices welcomed acclaimed entrepreneur, actress, and mother of two, Drew Barrymore, to the HMD stage at MWC 2025 to share her passionate views on screen time. Mum, entrepreneur and actress exclaimed: ' Technology has taken advantage of the tired parent. It's time to redefine how we live. Patience from the past meets future forward technology. I started this for my children, but I also truly want it for myself, and for you.' Barrymore also teased an upcoming collaboration set to disrupt the status quo by tackling the 'status scroll'. She hinted at the code name of this new initiative; 'Project Wildflower'. MWC 2025 also sees the first HMD x FC Barcelona devices launched: HMD Barça 3210 and HMD Barça Fusion, with fan-focused highlights and surprises throughout each experience, including notes from Lewandowski and other Barça players. Sanmeet Singh Kochhar, Vice President for HMD in the AMEA Region, commented on this special 'co-branded with the champions' device: 'Our partnership with FC Barcelona brings exclusive devices that resonate with the Middle East's passionate football fans, offering them unique experiences and connectivity through a mobile phone they can be proud to carry.' Not forgetting its feature phone heritage, HMD also announces HMD 130 and HMD 150 Music, two speaker-centric phones packed with booming sound, FM radios, durable designs, and superb battery life, and HMD 2660 Flip, combining chic flip phone styling with digital detox simplicity. From phones to audio; HMD Amped Buds are the first wireless earbuds with a charging case that can magnetically power up your phone, so you're never caught out without music or power. Jean-Francois Baril, CEO and Chairman of Human Mobile Devices, said: 'Our first year creating devices under the Human Mobile Devices brand has been full of highlights, with world-class phones launched, investment in socially responsible initiatives both at home in Europe and abroad, and double-digit volume growth of our feature phones. Additionally, 2024 marked our highest ever operating profit.' 'With this renewed focus on human experiences, a new focus on the family segment, and a continued focus on security and financing, HMD looks forward to meaningful growth in 2025 and a better technology experience for all.' HMD Family and HMD Fusion X1 HMD Fusion X1 is the 'first smartphone for teens' from Human Mobile Devices in partnership with Xplora. It gives parents full control over their teen's smartphone experience with the Xplora subscription while still offering a device teens can be excited about. The subscription features customizable app and internet access, allowing parents to choose no social media and internet browsing or to set limitations. It also includes continuous location tracking at 20-second intervals with safe zones, emergency SOS calling, low battery alerts, and remote device access for parents. The School Mode function ensures distractions are minimized during school hours by locking specific apps and features when needed. All of these settings can be managed remotely through the Xplora app on the parents' own device, enabling them to adjust controls in real-time based on their teen's needs and environment. Recognizing the unique cultural context of the Gulf countries, HMD has ensured that the Fusion X1 aligns with regional values, offering features that promote family cohesion and respect local customs. Sanmeet concluded: 'In the Middle East, we recognize the importance of family values and the need for technology that aligns with our cultural principles. That is why we conducted an international research that included 12,000 kids from the UAE and abroad, the result was: 'HMD Fusion X1', designed to foster healthy digital habits among teens, providing parents with the tools to manage their children's online experiences effectively'. From smart tech to better tech Find full press releases for all devices launched at MWC 2025 at HMD's newsroom, including pricing and availability. HMD's continued journey from smart tech to better tech is exemplified throughout its current and upcoming product lines, celebrating innovation, talent, and a better relationship with technology for generations to come. -Ends- About Human Mobile Devices We are Human Mobile Devices, and we start by tuning into what people really want. Our consumers are passionate about the planet, often feel swamped by digital overload, and are keeping a close eye on their budget. That's why we are thrilled to be Europe's largest smartphone maker, championing repair-at-home phones, and a go-to for much needed digital time out. For further information, see TM and © 2025 HMD Global. All rights reserved. All specifications, features and other product information provided are subject to change without notice. All images are for illustrative purposes only. Apple and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries and regions. IOS is a registered trademark or trademark of Cisco Systems, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the United States and certain other countries. Android is a trademark of Google LLC. [1] Based on a study commissioned by HMD and conducted by Perspectus Global of 12,393 parents and 12,331 children (aged between 8 – 15) in 6 countries: UK, US, Australia, India, UAE & Germany. The study was conducted in January 2025. [2] Battery has limited recharge cycles and battery capacity reduces over time. For media inquiries please contact : Saad Hakim Head of PR & Communication, KICKSTART saad@
Yahoo
02-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Football Fans, Music Nerds, Kids: HMD's New Phones Cater to Many A Niche
Hot on the heels of last year's Barbie phone, HMD is back with more niche phones to appeal to those whose preferences and needs fall outside of the regular iPhone/Android flagship binary. Some companies rocked up at MWC 2025 in Barcelona this year with no new phones to show off -- but not HMD. It brought its A-game to the mobile show, with a shed-load of fresh products. HMD, short for Human Mobile Devices, is best known for making Nokia phones. Perhaps it's no surprise then that the company is once again releasing an update of classic Nokia phone -- the 3210 -- but this time in the colors of Barcelona Football Club. The company has an ongoing partnership with the elite European soccer team, announcing its first FC Barcelona-themed device last year. This latest update to the 3210 includes hidden messages from players, custom wallpapers and the classic mobile game Snake, this time played on a football pitch. The HMD Barça Fusion meanwhile is a collector's edition smartphone engraved with signatures from 11 of the club's star players. HMD also promises Easter Eggs that will appeal to fans, and you can even be woken up by the voice of one of your favourite players in the morning. Not a Barcelona fan? One of HMD's other phones might be a better fit for you. The Fusion X1 is the company's first smartphone for teens, created off the back of its Better Phones Project -- an effort to bring families into the process of designing devices. The Fusion X1 allows parents control over kids' phones with a monthly Xplora subscription. This allows parents to have control over internet browsing and social media, in addition to a "School Mode". The subscription also provides continuous location tracking at 20 second intervals with safe zones, emergency SOS calling, low battery alerts and remote device access -- your teen will be thrilled. The Fusion X1 is a smartphone, but HMD is best known for making feature phones. The feature phone market is declining, but the company says its defied the overall, and last year not only gained market share but saw double-digit growth. No wonder then that it's back at the show this year with a handful of feature phones. Along with the HMD 2660 -- a classic flip phone -- the company unveiled two phones for music lovers. The big selling point of the HMD 150 and 350 is their retro feel, combined with prominent speakers, FM radios and long battery lives make them feel like the perfect festival phones. Let's just hope no-one uses those statement speakers to play music on public transport.
