HMD Arc 2 Launches as a Budget Android Phone With a Headphone Jack and 5,000mAh Battery
HMD has expanded its entry-level smartphone lineup with the launch of the HMD Arc 2, a low-cost Android device aimed at buyers who want the basics without spending much. The new model appears to be a small upgrade over the original HMD Arc, which arrived in late 2024, and keeps the focus on practical features such as long battery life, expandable storage, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
The HMD Arc 2 comes with a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display featuring HD+ resolution and a standard 60Hz refresh rate. While it is not designed to compete with premium smartphones, the screen should be suitable for everyday tasks like browsing, messaging, social media, video streaming, and light app use.
Powering the phone is the Unisoc T603 chipset, a modest processor built for affordable smartphones. It is paired with 4GB of RAM, with buyers able to choose between 64GB and 128GB of internal storage. For users who need more space for photos, music, and apps, the phone also includes a microSD card slot for storage expansion.
For photography, the HMD Arc 2 is equipped with a 13MP rear camera. On the front, there is a 5MP selfie camera for video calls and basic selfies. The camera setup is simple, but it fits the phone’s budget-friendly positioning.
One of the key highlights is the 5,000mAh battery, which should offer dependable battery life for daily use. Charging is handled through a USB-C port, though charging speed is limited to 10W. The inclusion of USB-C is a welcome feature in this price range, especially for users moving away from older micro-USB devices.
On the software side, the HMD Arc 2 runs Android 14 Go Edition. This lighter version of Android is optimized for entry-level hardware, helping the phone deliver smoother performance with less demanding apps and system resources.
Another useful feature is the 3.5mm headphone jack, which remains important for many budget smartphone buyers. It allows users to connect wired earphones without needing an adapter or wireless accessories.
The HMD Arc 2 will be available in two color options: Dark Blue and Golden Beige. Sales are scheduled to begin in Thailand on July 20, 2026.
The 4GB RAM and 64GB storage version is priced at THB 2,290, which is approximately $68. The higher-storage model with 4GB RAM and 128GB storage costs THB 2,990, or around $89.
At the moment, HMD has not confirmed whether the Arc 2 will be released in other markets. However, with its low price, large battery, headphone jack, expandable storage, and Android 14 Go Edition software, the HMD Arc 2 could appeal to users looking for an affordable backup phone or a simple everyday smartphone.
