HMD Global, the Finnish company behind Nokia phones, has introduced a new budget-friendly smartphone in Thailand, the HMD Arc. This device stands out with its self-repairable design, empowering users to easily replace the battery or screen without needing specialized tools or technical expertise. This approach aligns with HMD’s commitment to sustainability and reducing e-waste by extending the lifespan of its devices.
While pricing and availability details remain under wraps, the HMD Arc offers a compelling package for those seeking an affordable and user-friendly smartphone.
Display and Design
The HMD Arc sports a 6.52-inch HD+ (576 x 1,280 pixels) LCD screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. It provides a decent viewing experience for everyday tasks, with a peak brightness of 460 nits. The phone measures 166.4 x 76.9 x 8.95mm and weighs 185.4g, making it relatively lightweight and comfortable to hold. It also boasts an IP52 (in Europe) or IP54 dust and water resistance rating, depending on the market, offering protection against accidental spills and splashes.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the HMD Arc is powered by a Unisoc 9863A chipset, paired with 4GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. This configuration should provide sufficient performance for basic tasks, social media browsing, and light gaming. The storage can be further expanded up to 128GB via a microSD card.
The device runs on Android 14 (Go Edition), a lightweight version of Android optimized for entry-level smartphones. HMD Global promises two years of quarterly security updates, ensuring the device remains secure and up-to-date.
Camera Capabilities
The HMD Arc features a 13-megapixel primary rear camera with autofocus, enabling users to capture decent photos in various lighting conditions. A 5-megapixel selfie camera is housed within a waterdrop-style notch at the front. The camera app offers features like bokeh mode, night mode, professional mode, slow motion, quick snapshot, filters, time-lapse, and panorama, providing users with creative options for photography.
Battery and Connectivity
A 5,000mAh battery powers the HMD Arc, offering ample capacity for a full day of use. It supports 10W wired charging. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB Type-C port. The phone also includes a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking, virtual RAM support for improved performance, and essential sensors like an accelerometer, ambient light sensor, and proximity sensor.
The HMD Arc presents a compelling proposition for budget-conscious consumers seeking a reliable smartphone with a focus on repairability and user-friendliness. Its self-repairable design, coupled with decent specifications and a clean Android experience, makes it a noteworthy option in the affordable smartphone segment.