In a significant shift from its traditional approach, HMD Global, known for its Nokia branded smartphones, is on the brink of launching its first self-branded HMD global smartphone. An exciting leak has given us a glimpse into what HMD Global has been crafting behind the scenes. The model, tentatively referred to as N159V, marks a new chapter for the Finnish company, showcasing a fresh design and a novel branding strategy.
The leaked render, sourced by 91Mobiles from industry insiders, reveals a sleek black handset adorned with a dual rear camera setup and an LED flash. The most striking feature is the prominent HMD logo, centrally placed on the rear panel, suggesting a departure from the company’s long-standing association with Nokia branding.
This impending release follows the announcement made by HMD Global CEO Jean-Francois Baril last September. Baril hinted at the expansion of the company’s portfolio, introducing devices under the HMD global smartphone moniker. Since 2016, HMD Global has been at the forefront of reviving and marketing Nokia-branded phones globally. This new direction indicates a strategic diversification in their product offerings.
Expected Design and Features:
The new self-branded HMD Global smartphone, as depicted in the leak, sports a mid-range aesthetic with a plastic back panel. The power and volume buttons are conveniently located on the right side. The front showcases a flat display panel, featuring a center-aligned hole punch cutout for the selfie camera. However, details like the presence of a 3.5mm audio jack remain undisclosed.
Technical Insights:
An XML file related to HMD Global’s website, discovered by Nokiamob, hints at a Full HD+ display for the N159V codenamed HMD Global smartphone. While the render flaunts the HMD logo, there’s speculation that it might also carry the Nokia branding. This aligns with the company’s historical practice but signals a potential dual-branding strategy.
The mid-range positioning is further supported by design choices like the textured matte-polycarbonate back and a shift from the traditional waterdrop notch to a more contemporary punch-hole display. The dual-camera system at the rear is expected to feature an ultra-wide lens, indicating a focus on enhanced photography capabilities.
Launch Expectations:
As per 91Mobiles, HMD Global is poised to officially launch this new model in India by April. This anticipated launch is not just a mere addition to their product line but a testament to HMD’s commitment to innovation and growth in the competitive smartphone market.
Conclusion:
HMD Global’s venture into self-branded smartphones with the N159V is a bold move that enthusiasts and industry experts are eagerly watching. It is yet to see what this HMD Global smartphone will mean for the HMD-Nokia relationship. This launch could very well redefine the company’s market standing, opening up new avenues for growth and consumer engagement.
