HMD Global to soon launch new smartphone sans Nokia branding

HMD is stepping into the smartphone scene this year, and 91mobiles offered an exclusive peek at the official render of the upcoming device. While the company has been using the Nokia brand for its global smartphone releases, it’s now set to unveil a phone under the “HMD” name for the first time. There are expectations for the launch of at least two phones, as seen in listings on the IMEI database last year.

Two HMD smartphones, identified with the model numbers N159V and TA-1585, were spotted on the IMEI database. 91mobiles has obtained exclusive images from industry sources of HMD’s inaugural smartphone with the model number N159V, though the actual name is still undisclosed.

HMD’s initial smartphone appears to be a lower midrange device judging by its design. The phone sports a matte-finished back available in black. Although the material of the back panel remains unknown, it’s suggested that the frame might be plastic, given the absence of antenna lines.

Upfront, the device flaunts a punch-hole selfie camera on its flat display. The right side hosts the power and volume buttons. Additionally, the phone showcases a fresh HMD logo, which was previously spotted in an EUIPO listing last year. This new brand identity might carry on for its series of phones.

Considering both model numbers, N159V and TA-1585, were certified on the IMEI database on the same day last year, it’s likely they belong to the same device shown above. The variation in model numbers could stem from regional and carrier agreements. HMD is anticipated to release its new smartphone worldwide. Earlier this year, 91mobiles verified that the HMD-branded phones are set to hit the Indian market as early as April.

The report also hinted at the phones being competitively priced, with a primary focus on the online market, possibly through platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. However, HMD Global plans to primarily push Nokia phones through offline markets. The company is set to sell both its own devices and Nokia devices until 2026.

Regarding the phones, HMD Global plans to provide more OS updates compared to its competitors, and they will run on the stock Android OS, similar to Nokia phones.