HMD has recently released four feature phones branded with Nokia and equipped with an AI button.
AI has made its way into all the latest smartphones, laptops, browsers, and just about anything else manufacturers can fit it into. Now, HMD has determined that even the most basic feature phones shouldn’t miss out. The company is reviving the Nokia brand for this purpose, and indeed, it features a keypad.
HMD has discreetly introduced four Nokia-branded 4G feature phones: the Nokia 210 4G, Nokia 200 4G, Nokia 215 4G 2nd Edition, and Nokia 235 4G 2nd Edition. All four models come with physical numeric keypads and a dedicated button to activate a voice-driven AI assistant. With just a press of the button, users can issue commands for tasks such as turning on the flashlight, setting alarms or reminders, opening the camera, or dialing someone from their contacts. The assistant can also respond to basic inquiries, provide simple recipes, and assist with common phrases in foreign languages.
Nokia
Is this a more intelligent dumb phone?
Feature phones continue to be beneficial for those seeking longer battery life, fewer distractions, simpler interfaces, or an economical means of staying connected. They are particularly favored by older users and those who might struggle with complex menus. Voice commands can significantly enhance the usability of these devices, allowing for tasks like making calls or setting alarms without navigating multiple keypad presses and menus.
This approach is far more practical than yet another AI image generation feature crammed into contemporary smartphones. The new Nokia models also include Xpress Chat, which facilitates video calls, voice messaging, group chats, photo sharing, and emojis. Users on smartphones can participate in discussions through the free Xpress Chat app available on Android and iOS.
HMD’s Cloud Phone Service offers quick access to videos, games, weather updates, news, and sports results without needing typical smartphone apps or significant local storage. This essentially means that your basic feature phone is catching up with modern technology.
Nokia
There is one downside… a subscription
The most surprising detail lies in the fine print. HMD provides a 180-day trial for the AI assistant, after which service fees will be imposed. Users will need a smartphone app to purchase the subscription. Thus, the AI-enhanced dumb phone might ultimately require a smartphone for its owner to continue paying for the AI assistant.
The four models feature familiar hardware found in feature phones, such as 4G connectivity, USB-C charging, headphone jacks, removable 1,450mAh batteries, and microSD card support. The Nokia 210 4G and Nokia 200 4G come with 2.4-inch displays and promise up to 13 days of standby time. In contrast, the Nokia 215 and 235 are equipped with larger 2.8-inch screens and offer up to 12 days of standby.
The Nokia 235 boasts the most advanced camera, equipped with a VGA front camera and a 2MP rear camera. The Nokia 210 includes both front and rear VGA cameras, while the Nokia 200 and Nokia 215 emphasize the front camera for video calls. Pricing and availability details are still unclear, but HMD is ensuring that feature phones are no longer shunning modern advancements.
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HMD has recently released four feature phones branded with Nokia and equipped with an AI button.
HMD has launched four new Nokia-branded feature phones that combine physical keypads with specific AI buttons, video calling capabilities, cloud services, and a standby time of up to 13 days.