Everything You Need to Know About HMD Smartphones

HMD smartphones are Android devices produced by HMD Global under the Nokia brand. They combine Nokia’s heritage with modern Android features, offering regular security updates and a clean software experience.

What are HMD smartphones and who makes them?

HMD smartphones are mobile phones that carry the Nokia name but are manufactured and marketed by HMD Global, a Finnish company founded in 2016. HMD Global licenses the Nokia brand from Nokia Corporation and focuses on delivering Android‑One or Android‑One‑based experiences across a wide price spectrum.

When did HMD Global launch its first Nokia phone?

The first Nokia‑branded phone from HMD Global was the Nokia 6, released in February 2017. It ran Android 7.0 Nougat and marked the return of Nokia to the premium smartphone market after a decade-long hiatus.

Which HMD smartphone models are currently available?

As of 2024, HMD Global offers three primary lines: the Nokia X series (mid‑range with 5G), the Nokia G series (budget‑friendly with solid battery life), and the Nokia T series (premium Android‑One devices). The table below summarises the most recent models.

How do HMD phones compare to other Android flagships?

When measured against premium Android phones from Samsung or Google, HMD devices usually lag in raw performance but excel in three areas:

• Software cleanliness: All HMD phones ship with a near‑stock Android experience, free of heavy OEM skins.
• Update commitment: HMD promises two major OS upgrades and three years of security patches for most models.
• Price‑to‑value ratio: Mid‑range models often undercut competitors by $100‑$200 while retaining 5G and decent camera sensors.

Are HMD smartphones good for software updates?

Yes. HMD Global follows the Android‑One roadmap, guaranteeing two Android version upgrades and three years of monthly security patches for devices released from 2020 onward. For example, the Nokia X20 launched with Android 11 and received Android 12 in late 2023 and Android 13 in early 2024, staying current without extra cost.

What is the price range for HMD phones?

HMD smartphones span from entry‑level to upper‑midrange:

• Budget: Nokia G21 – $199
• Mid‑range: Nokia X20 – $399
• Upper‑midrange: Nokia T20 – $349

Prices fluctuate with regional taxes and promotional discounts, but the brand consistently stays below $500 for new releases.

Where can you buy authentic HMD smartphones?

Authentic HMD phones are sold through:

• Official Nokia online store (nokia.com)
• Major carriers such as Verizon, AT&T, and T‑Mobile (US)
• Authorized retailers like Best Buy, Amazon (sold by Nokia), and Walmart
• Regional e‑commerce platforms – for example, Flipkart in India or JD.com in China

Buying from these sources ensures a valid warranty and access to HMD’s update schedule.

Common concerns and how HMD addresses them

Potential buyers often ask about durability, camera quality, and long‑term support. HMD phones feature MIL‑STD‑810H‑type durability testing, which means they survive typical drops and temperature extremes. Camera performance is competitive for the price tier; the Nokia X20, for instance, uses a 64 MP main sensor with Zeiss optics, delivering comparable results to many $500 phones. Finally, the three‑year security‑patch promise reduces the risk of outdated software vulnerabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do HMD smartphones receive Android updates faster than other OEMs?

HMD follows the Android‑One schedule, delivering OS upgrades within three to six months of Google’s release, which is generally quicker than many non‑Android‑One manufacturers.

Can I use Google Pay and Samsung Pay on HMD phones?

Google Pay works on all HMD smartphones because they run standard Android. Samsung Pay is not supported, as it requires Samsung’s proprietary hardware and software.

Are HMD phones waterproof?

Most recent HMD models, such as the Nokia X20 and G50, have an IP53 rating, offering protection against light rain and splashes but not full submersion.

What warranty does HMD offer?

HMD provides a standard one‑year limited warranty worldwide, with optional extended service plans available through selected retailers and carriers.