HMD Global, known for reviving classic Nokia phones, has unveiled two new feature phones that step away from the Nokia branding. The HMD 105 and HDS 110 are the latest additions to the company’s lineup, promising long battery life and essential phone functionalities at affordable prices.
These devices come in as successors to the popular Nokia 105 and Nokia 110 models but bear the HMD moniker, indicating a strategic branding shift for the company. The two phones share several core features, including a 1,000 mAh battery touted to deliver up to 18 days of standby time. They also present a similar aesthetic with compact form factors, small screens, and pronounced bezels that hark back to the simplicity of earlier mobile phones.
The HMD 105, in particular, strips back on features, lacking a rear-facing camera or an LED flash, reminiscent of its predecessor, the Nokia 105. Both new phones, however, maintain classic feature phone elements like a 3.5 mm headphone jack and a Micro USB port. Despite these older port types, the absence of USB Type-C ports, which facilitate faster data transfer and charging, is noted.
One of the distinctive inclusions for the duo is the support for Unified Payments Interface (UPI), a real-time payment system that enhances the functionality of these feature phones within the Indian market. This addition points towards HMD Global’s intention to cater to the functionality needs of the local market where digital payments are surging.
HMD Global has set competitive prices for the two devices, with the HMD 105 priced at approximately $12 and the HMD 110 slightly higher at about $14. However, details about an international release remain sparse, leaving global consumers in anticipation.
For customers looking to get their hands on simple, long-lasting, and affordable feature phones, these new offerings by HMD Global may be of interest, especially in regions where basic mobile devices remain in demand for their durability and ease of use. While advanced smartphones continue to dominate the market, there is a niche segment that appreciates the straightforward, no-frills experience offered by feature phones.
