If you’ve been keeping an eye on tech, then you’re probably aware that HMD (previously known as HMD Global) has re-adjusted its brand and smartphone business strategy to slowly move away from the legacy Nokia brand. For those not in the know, HMD entered into a deal with Nokia many years ago that would let the former license Nokia-branded Android phones, although with the deal now coming to an end, HMD has wasted no time in trying to establish its own name in the industry.
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In fact, HMD launched its Pulse-series smartphones a while back, which consists of three models without the Nokia branding on them. This was followed by the Nokia Skyline, which ironically enough lacks the Nokia logo despite looking like a Lumia device. That aside though, HMD’s push to stand out in the market has led to a new entry in its lineup in the form of the HMD Fusion, which incorporates a modular design. The phone is also now available for purchase for buyers in Europe and in the United Kingdom, starting at a rather wallet-friendly price of £229.
This modular hardware setup allows users to clip on different accessories onto the phone, which consists of gear from both HMD and other third-party brands. Dubbed “Fusion Outfits,” these accessories consist of everything from interchangeable cases and back covers, which come with different features such as magnetic wireless charging, rugged cases, and more. There’s even an option for a controller setup for gaming.
It’s worth noting that the concept of modular smartphones isn’t anything new – companies like Motorola and LG have previously tried this (albeit with middling success), and there was even the ill-fated Project Ara smartphone which has all but disappeared from public memory. More recently though, newcomers like Nothing’s CMF sub-brand have revisited modular smartphone design with the CMF Phone 1, which likewise integrates a modular hardware setup.
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In terms of specs, the HMD Fusion comes with a list of specs that’s commonly found on a lot of budget smartphones – powered by a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip, the phone also comes with a 6.56-inch IPS display, which also features a 90Hz refresh rate and HD+ resolution. There’s also a 5,000 mAh battery with 33W wired charging; as for imaging, there’s a 108MP main camera on the rear panel, while a 50MP front camera handles selfies and video calls. In terms of design it forgoes the Lumia-centric aesthetic of the HMD Skyline, instead opting for a more “standard” design, save for the rear panel which doesn’t hide its modular origins.
With all that being said, folks interested in getting the HMD Fusion can now order the phone via the company’s official website and via participating retailers.
