Nokia

Overview

HMD Global operates from https://www.hmd.com as a Finnish mobile phone manufacturer, producing Nokia-branded smartphones and feature phones under license, and self-branded HMD devices since 2024. It focuses on mid-tier and entry-level smartphones, feature phones, and emphasizes repairability, durability, clean Android software, and sustainable materials. The company targets value-conscious consumers seeking reliable, affordable devices with long battery life and consistent updates.¹²⁴

History

HMD Global was founded in 2016 in Espoo, Finland, by former Nokia executives including Jean-Francois Baril and Arto Nummela to revive Nokia-branded mobile phones after acquiring Microsoft's feature phone business and securing a licensing agreement with Nokia Technologies.¹² It launched Nokia smartphones like the Nokia 6 in 2017 and focused on feature phones and mid-tier devices after the Nokia 9 PureView underperformed in 2019.¹ In 2024, HMD began releasing self-branded smartphones, and in September 2025, Nokia extended the licensing agreement beyond 2026.¹

Product Lines

Manufacturing

HMD Global outsources manufacturing to partners, including Foxconn's FIH Mobile subsidiary, which operates a factory in Vietnam acquired alongside the feature phone business in 2016.¹³⁵

Notable Products

• Nokia 3310 (2017) - Re-imagined classic feature phone with modern durability features.
• Nokia 6 - First Android smartphone launched by HMD in 2017.
• Nokia 9 PureView - 2019 flagship with penta-camera system, later pivot from high-end.
• Nokia Originals series - Revivals of iconic Nokia handsets with updated internals.

Reputation

HMD Global and Nokia-branded devices are regarded by enthusiasts for reliability, long software support, and repairability features in the budget segment.⁴ Professionals note success in feature phones and mid-tier markets but criticize limited innovation in flagships post-2019.¹ The shift to self-branded HMD phones in 2024 is viewed as preparation for potential Nokia license changes.¹