Exciting news for smartphone enthusiasts worldwide: the HMD Crest, initially launched as an India-exclusive device, is now gearing up for a global debut with some intriguing enhancements and changes.
First introduced to the Indian market in July 2024, the HMD Crest was positioned as an affordable 5G smartphone option. The announcement of its impending global release brings a breath of fresh air, with fascinating updates on its design and configuration that are sure to captivate international markets.
One standout feature of the global version of the HMD Crest is its new color option—a sleek white—that adds to the original Indian lineup of Midnight Blue, Royal Pink, and Lush Lilac. This sophisticated hue is expected to appeal to style-savvy users eager for a phone that makes a statement.
Under the hood, the global model offers an upgraded 8GB of RAM and a generous 256GB of storage, providing more power and space than the Indian variant’s 6GB RAM and 128GB storage. However, in a move following current market trends, the global package will not include a charger—unlike its Indian counterpart.
Despite these variations, the core specifications remain consistent. Users can enjoy a vibrant 6.67-inch OLED display with an FHD+ resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate, ensuring bright and clear visuals. The smartphone is powered by the efficient Unisoc T760 processor, supported by expandable storage through a microSD card slot. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate its dual 50MP cameras—one for selfies and one rear-facing—complemented by a 2MP depth sensor.
Pre-installed with Android 14, the smartphone is set to receive two Android OS updates and three years of security improvements, promising longevity and continued performance improvements. Additional features like a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, a traditional audio jack, and a robust 5,000mAh battery with support for 33W fast charging contribute to its appeal.
In terms of pricing, the global version is rumored to be very competitively priced at $139.99, a compelling offer considering its specifications. This is slightly lower than the Indian version’s price tag, potentially making it an attractive option for those seeking a cost-effective 5G device.
While an exact release date for the global launch is yet to be confirmed, anticipation is building and it’s expected to be available soon. Keep an eye out, because the HMD Crest might just be the affordable smartphone upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
