HMD UNVEILS FAMILY-CENTRED SMARTPHONES AIMED AT PROTECTING KIDS ONLINE

Human Mobile Devices (HMD), a global leader in innovative smartphone technology, has redefined the smart device narrative by putting humanity at the forefront of its latest announcements at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025 in Barcelona, Spain.

HMD has introduced a new family-focused portfolio designed to address the global mental health crisis exacerbated by excessive screen time and to enhance online safety for minors. Leading the charge is the HMD Fusion X1, the first device under this initiative, developed in partnership with Xplora. The Fusion X1 is tailored to foster healthy digital habits for teens, featuring robust parental controls and restrictions on social media and internet access unless enabled by a guardian.

This launch follows new research from HMD, which surveyed 25,000 children and adults worldwide. The findings reveal alarming statistics, including that more than half of children have been contacted by strangers online. The Fusion X1 aims to mitigate such risks while promoting balanced digital usage.

In addition to its family-focused innovations, HMD has teamed up with FC Barcelona to launch two exclusive devices: the HMD Barça 3210 and HMD Barça Fusion. These fan-centric devices come packed with surprises, including personalised notes from FC Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski and other players, offering an immersive experience for football enthusiasts.

Staying true to its feature phone roots, HMD also unveiled the HMD 130 and HMD 150 Music, two speaker-centric phones boasting powerful sound, FM radios, durable designs, and exceptional battery life. The HMD 2660 Flip combines retro flip phone styling with modern simplicity, offering a stylish option for those seeking a digital detox.

Expanding beyond phones, HMD introduced the HMD Amped Buds, the first wireless earbuds with a charging case that can magnetically power up your phone. With a remarkable 90-hour playback time, these earbuds ensure users are never left without music or power.

Jean-Francois Baril, CEO and Chairman of Human Mobile Devices, reflected on the company’s achievements: “Our first year creating devices under the Human Mobile Devices brand has been full of highlights, with world-class phones launched, investment in socially responsible initiatives both at home in Europe and abroad, and double-digit volume growth of our feature phones. Plus, 2024 marked our highest-ever operating profit.”

The new family-focused initiative builds on HMD’s Better Phone Project from 2024, which saw the company collaborate with families and experts to co-create devices better suited for children. The new line of devices will be rolled out in Kenya in phases throughout 2025, bringing innovative and responsible technology to families worldwide.