HMD Collaborates with Parents to Create New Phone for Children to Protect Their Mental Wellbeing

The Better Phone Project by HMD is an innovative initiative aimed at addressing the impact of smartphone use and social media on children's mental wellbeing.

In collaboration with parents, HMD is developing a phone specifically designed for children, providing an alternative to traditional smartphones. The goal is to empower parents with more control over their child's screen time and social media usage, ultimately promoting better balance and safeguarding the mental health of the next generation.

As part of The Better Phone Project, HMD commissioned new global research to provide insight into the dilemmas parents face when it comes to their children and smartphone use. The research findings, conducted in July 2024, revealed 11 is the average age when a parent hands over a smartphone to their child for the first time – but many confessed they wished they had waited longer. 10,092 parents were interviewed, across 5 different countries, United Kingdom, the United States, India, Germany and Australia.

HMD plans to tackle the issue with a suite of new devices – including a new phone– and wants parents to be a part of creating a solution that works for them as part of The Better Phone Project.

The Better Phone is designed with features that prioritize children's mental wellbeing and parental control. While specific details are still emerging, below are some anticipated features:

1. Customizable Screen Time Limits: Parents can set daily usage limits for apps and screen time.
2. Safe Browsing: A curated web browser with age-appropriate content.
3. Parental Monitoring: Real-time insights into app usage, websites visited, and social media activity.
4. Distraction-Free Mode: A mode that minimizes notifications during study or sleep hours.
5. Emergency Contacts: Quick access to emergency numbers.
6. Privacy Controls: Enhanced privacy settings for photos, location, and personal data.
7. Educational Apps: Pre-installed educational apps and games.

It is to be noted that these features are subject to change as the project evolves.

HMD is also keen to work with anyone who is interested in this subject and would like to be part of the journey to create change and new solutions. They can sign-up to be involved at https://www.hmd.com/en_int/better-phone-project.

HMD Global Appoints Tanuj Patro as Chief Financial Officer for India & Asia Pacific markets : A Visionary Finance Leader with a Global Outlook

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Tanuj Patro as its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the company, a strategic move that reflects the company's commitment to top-tier leadership and its relentless pursuit of excellence in the mobile technology industry.

With an illustrious career spanning over two decades in the finance domain, Tanuj brings an unparalleled wealth of experience and expertise to his role. Having worked with industry giants such as Microsoft, Nokia, LG, and E&Y, as well as emerging market pioneers like Paytm, Tanuj’s journey has been defined by his adeptness in both large corporate landscapes and fast-paced startup environments. Tanuj is a Chartered Accountant and has pursued Advanced Executive Management Program from INSEAD.

Ravi Kunwar, Vice President- India & APAC, HMD Global, "We are thrilled to welcome Tanuj Patro as our new CFO. Tanuj's deep financial expertise and strategic mindset align seamlessly with our vision for growth. As we continue to innovate and expand our presence in the global market, Tanuj's insights will be instrumental in shaping our financial strategies and ensuring sustained success. HMD Global recent move into launching its own line of mobile devices will greatly benefit from Tanuj’s financial acumen, ensuring efficient operations and a commitment to a greener, sustainable future."

As Chief Financial Officer, Tanuj Patro will oversee HMD Global's financial operations For India & APAC markets, working closely with the leadership team to drive financial performance, operational efficiency , and support the company's mission of connecting people through advanced mobile technology.

Tanuj Patro

Tanuj Patro, CFO, India & APAC, HMD Global, "I am truly honoured and excited to step into the role of Chief Financial Officer at HMD Global.” I am committed to fostering an environment of collaboration and inclusivity, where diverse perspectives drive our financial strategies to new heights. I am also excited to collaborate with the talented team at HMD Global. Together, we will navigate the dynamic landscape of the mobile technology industry, ensuring financial excellence and sustainable growth."

Tanuj Patro's appointment as Chief Financial Officer at HMD Global heralds a new chapter of financial leadership and innovation for the company. His experiences in diverse markets like India, East Africa, South Africa, and Malaysia have reinforced the importance of cultural sensitivity and the ability to lead diverse teams. His global perspective, coupled with his remarkable expertise, positions him to be a driving force in HMD Global's continued success.

Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, HMD Global Oy (“HMD”) is the home of Nokia phones and HMD Services. HMD’s mission is providing accessible connectivity for everyone. HMD designs and markets a range of smartphones and feature phones and an expanding portfolio of innovative service offerings. With an ongoing commitment to security, durability, reliability, and quality across its range, HMD is the proud exclusive licensee of the Nokia brand for phones, tablets and accessories. For further information, see www.hmdglobal.com.

Nokia is a registered trademark of Nokia Corporation. All specifications, features and other product information provided are subject to change without notice. Variations on offering may apply. Check local availability.

HMD Global Launches Nokia C32: Fashionable Design, Powerful Imaging, and Android 13 !

• A refined design with a toughened glass for a premium feel in three eye-catching dual tone colours
• 50MP Dual camera and stellar imaging algorithms take picture quality to new heights, day or night
• Powerful three-day 5000 mAh battery1 lets you do more without the need to stop and charge
• Android 13TM delivers the most personalised software to date for a modern smartphone experience

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, today launches the new Nokia C32, the first smartphone in the popular C-series range with a 50MP Dual camera, bringing advanced imaging to an even more affordable price point. Arriving with the latest Android 13 in a new, refreshed design, it has a toughened glass finish for a premium feel.

Ravi Kunwar, VP- India & APAC, HMD Global: “After the successful recent launch of the Nokia C22, we're thrilled to introduce the Nokia C32 delivering reliable performance, stunning visuals, and long-lasting battery life. The success of the Nokia C-series in India motivates us to continue to offer great value and innovation in this segment. Moreover, we believe that value should not sacrifice design, so we have included a toughened glass finish usually seen in more premium designs to ensure that it looks as good as the pictures it takes.”

A revolution in affordable design

Bringing a refreshed design with a toughened glass back, dual tone finish and elegant straight sidewalls, it takes C-series into a new age of Nordic premium. A bright 6.5’’HD+ display is wrapped in a choice of three bold colours, Charcoal, Breezy Mint, or Beach Pink, all with matching accent details.

Affordable imaging brought to new heights

The 50MP AI dual main camera and 8MP selfie camera are supported by powerful imaging algorithms to get the most out of the hardware. Capturing more light than ever before and equipped with a bespoke night mode on both the front and rear cameras, Nokia C32 gives impressive pictures in any lighting conditions.

Android 13 right out the box

Enjoy Android 13 benefits straight away and customise apps to match your wallpaper, to make Nokia C32 unique to your style. From per-app language preferences to cross-device copy and paste, the versatile features let you navigate everything from work to entertainment quicker.

Being part of the C-series family comes with reassurances on durability and longevity

Toughened glass front and back, a robust metal chassis for extra support on the inside, and IP52-rated protection safeguards Nokia C32 from scratches, drops, and the daily wear and tear. On the inside, app hibernation and Super Battery Saver help Nokia C32 last up to three days¹ on a single charge. To keep your data safe, two years of security updates² come as standard for C-series. And for the extra piece of mind the device comes with one year replacement Guarantee.

Smoother app usage with memory extension³

Nokia C32 also comes with 3GB of extra virtual RAM with memory extension³ for smoother app usage. And like all Nokia phones, you get smartphone experience with less bloatware, so you have more space for the things that matter most.

Pricing, availability and accessories

Nokia C32 is available in India starting today at your nearest retailer, Nokia.com. Nokia C32 comes in Charcoal, Breezy Mint, and Beach Pink colourways with 7GB + 64GB and 7GB + 128 GB storage and memory configurations at INR 8999 and INR 9499 respectively.

Jio Partner Offer: Nokia also brings benefits for Jio Plus (Postpaid) users on the INR 399 plan, which provides 75GB monthly data + 3 add-on SIMs. Customers can give a missed call on 70000 70000 for Jio SIM home delivery.

Jio Plus(Postpaid) Nokia phone users will get special benefits worth up to INR 3,500 as 100 GB additional Data (10 GB Additional Monthly Data for 10 months) worth INR 1000 and additional coupons worth up to INR 2500 in the form of:

• 3 month EazyDiner subscription worth INR 700
• INR 750 off on flights over INR 4500 on Ixigo
• 3 months ET Prime Subscription worth INR 1100 at INR 49 only.

[i] Research carried out by HMD Global. Camera quality found to be the highest-rated feature in sub-PRICE smartphones.

¹Based on a real-life usage test by HMD Global. See more info at [add product webpage]

²From the global launch date of [name of the device].

³Using memory extension (virtual RAM) requires enough storage space. To protect the storage, memory extension is automatically and permanently disabled once 90% of the usage limit is reached. This can occur after 4 years of heavy usage.

Nokia Unveils Feature Phones with Inbuilt UPI 123PAY for Seamless Digital Transactions

Introducing the Nokia 105 (2023) and Nokia 106 4G: Feature Phones with Inbuilt UPI 123PAY for Seamless Digital Transactions

HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, yesterday announced additions to its market-leading feature phone portfolio with the new Nokia 105 2023 and Nokia 106. These phones come with an inbuilt UPI 123PAY functionality, combining the trusted reliability of Nokia phones with the convenience and accessibility of UPI, enabling users to securely and seamlessly perform digital transactions even without a smartphone.

UPI 123PAY is NPCI’s instant payment system for feature phone users who can use Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payment service in a safe and secure manner. Through UPI 123PAY, feature phone users will be able to undertake a host of transactions based on four technology alternatives such as calling an IVR (interactive voice response) number, app functionality in feature phones, missed call-based approach and proximity sound-based payments.

Nokia 105 (2023) – Red

Nokia 106 4G - Blue

Featuring incredible battery life, simplicity and accessible price points, both phones offer the reassurance and reliability expected from a Nokia phone.

Ravi Kunwar, VP- India & APAC, HMD Global added “We are excited to launch the market-leading feature phones, Nokia 105 2023 and Nokia 106 4G, more relevant than ever with the introduction of UPI feature. Through the introduction of UPI feature in our feature phones, we aim to empower feature phone users with the ability to perform secure, convenient digital transactions with ease and move ahead with the times. By bringing UPI to our beloved feature phones, Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 4G, we strive to bridge the digital divide and enable financial access for all”

Ms. Praveena Rai, Chief Operating Officer, NPCI said, "We are excited to associate with HMD Global in bringing UPI 123PAY functionality to Nokia feature phones. This partnership allows us to extend the convenience and accessibility of UPI to more users, enabling secure and seamless digital transactions on affordable devices. We believe that empowering feature phone users with UPI capabilities will contribute to provide more users with the ease and convenience of using UPI and encourage the adoption of digital financial services."

Beerud Sheth, Founder and CEO, Gupshup said, “For true financial inclusion to become a reality, payments and commerce have to come together. While this was available for smartphone users, a vast swathe of the feature phone customers were aloof from the transformative power of mobile payments. With our UPI solution for feature phones, we are proud to have built something that brings inclusive finance closer to people, empowering them along the way. We are glad to receive NPCI's support for this initiative and work alongside Nokia mobiles to make digital payments and UPI even more ubiquitous."

Designed to Keep You Connected
Nokia 106 4G has undergone rigorous durability testing to withstand even the toughest environments, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity no matter the circumstances. The carefully considered spacing between each button on the keymat, makes it easy to dial and text, even in the dark. IPS display technology brings clearer views with better viewing angles and colour reproduction no matter if you’re texting, browsing or gaming.

Enhanced User Experience and Improved Audio

Nokia 105’s ergonomic design and compact shape are specially moulded to feel great in the hand and easily slip into your pocket when you’re on the go.

Battery for Days

Nokia 105 is equipped with an upgraded 1000 mAh battery, 25% larger than its predecessor, providing extended standby time and allowing for uninterrupted conversations from sunrise to sunset.

Whereas, Nokia 106 4G has an increased 1450 mAh battery and delivers hours of talk time. Users can rely on the Nokia 106 4G to stay connected for weeks in standby mode, ensuring their communication needs are met without worrying about frequent recharging.

Entertainment and Functionality

Nokia 105 and 106 4G comes loaded with features designed to keep users entertained and productive. It offers a wireless FM radio, allowing users to listen to their favourite stations without the need for a headset. Additionally, Nokia 106 4G has in-built MP3 player, enabling users to bring their playlists wherever they go.

Built to Last

Nokia understands the importance of durability, and each Nokia phone is meticulously tested to ensure it can withstand the challenges of daily use. The Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 are no exception, built with passion and designed to deliver exceptional performance even in the most demanding situations.

Pricing and Availability

Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 4G will be available in India starting from 18th May priced at Rs. 1299 & Rs. 2199 respectively. The Nokia 105 will be offered in Charcoal, Cyan & Red color whereas Nokia 106 4G would be available in Charcoal & Blue Color.

About HMD Global  

Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, HMD Global Oy (“HMD”) is the home of Nokia phones. HMD’s mission is providing accessible connectivity for everyone. HMD designs and markets a range of smartphones and feature phones and an expanding portfolio of innovative service offerings. With an ongoing commitment to security, durability, reliability, and quality across its range, HMD is the proud exclusive licensee of the Nokia brand for phones and tablets. For further information, see www.hmdglobal.com. 

Nokia is a registered trademark of Nokia Corporation. All specifications, features and other product information provided are subject to change without notice. Variations on offering may apply. Check local availability. Google and Android are trademarks of Google LLC. 

About Gupshup

Gupshup.io, the leading Conversational Engagement Platform who has developed the GS Pay solution.