HMD Global, the company that has been keeping the Nokia brand alive with smartphones, has taken a new step in the Indian market. They’ve launched their first feature phones under their own HMD branding – the HMD 105 and HMD 110. These phones cater to a segment that still thrives in India, offering basic functionality at a budget-friendly price point. But the most exciting feature? Built-in UPI functionality, making digital payments accessible to even those without smartphones.
Stepping into the Feature Phone Arena: HMD 105 and HMD 110
The HMD 105 and HMD 110 are designed for users who prioritize affordability and practicality. They pack essential features like a 1.8-inch display, a 1,000mAh battery promising up to 18 days of standby time, a convenient USB-C charging port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and support for both wired and wireless FM radio. Both phones also boast a user-friendly interface with support for up to nine Indian languages for input and an impressive 23 languages for content rendering.
Making Digital Payments Accessible: The Power of Built-in UPI
The true game-changer for these HMD feature phones is the inclusion of built-in UPI functionality. UPI (Unified Payments Interface) is a digital payments system widely used in India, enabling transactions directly between bank accounts. With this feature, users can ditch the hassle of carrying cash or debit cards.
HMD 105 vs HMD 110: Understanding the Key Differences
While both phones share a similar core feature set, a key distinction lies in the camera department. The HMD 105 caters to users who primarily rely on basic calling and texting. It lacks a camera, so entering UPI details for payments involves manually punching in numbers.
On the other hand, the HMD 110 is equipped with a rear camera. This allows users to leverage the QR code functionality within UPI apps for a more convenient payment experience. Simply scan the merchant’s QR code with the HMD 110’s camera, and confirm the transaction details on the phone’s display for a quick and secure payment.
Affordability Reigns Supreme: Pricing and Availability
The HMD 105 is priced at a budget-conscious Rs 999, making it an incredibly accessible option for basic phone users. It’s available in three vibrant color options: black, purple, and blue. The HMD 110, featuring the added camera functionality, comes in at Rs 1,199. You can choose between black and green color variants for this model. Both phones are available for purchase through HMD’s official website and across various online and offline retail platforms in India.
A Look Ahead: What’s Next for HMD?
HMD’s foray into feature phones highlights its commitment to catering to the diverse needs of the Indian market. While these phones cater to the budget segment, HMD also offers a range of Android smartphones, including the recently launched Vibe and Pulse series. Additionally, rumors swirl about the upcoming HMD Skyline, which is said to pay homage to the iconic Nokia Lumia design. This phone is expected to boast high-end specifications like an FHD+ OLED display, a powerful Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 SoC, a versatile 108MP triple-camera system, and a long-lasting 4,900mAh battery with 33W fast charging support. The HMD Skyline is also rumored to come with an IP67 water and dust resistance rating, making it a durable choice for everyday use.
FAQs:
Q: How secure are UPI payments on these HMD feature phones?
A: UPI transactions utilize a two-factor authentication process, requiring a PIN for confirmation. As long as you keep your UPI PIN confidential, payments made through these phones should be secure.
Q: Do I need a smartphone to set up UPI on the HMD 105 and HMD 110?
A: No, a smartphone is not necessary for setting up UPI on these phones. The setup process can be completed directly on the device itself.
Q: Is there a warranty offered on the HMD 105 and HMD 110?
A: Yes, HMD offers a one-year warranty on both feature phones.
