HMD announced HMD Barbie Phone
After announcing its pixelated roadmap at MWC2024, HMD introduced three new phones: the entry-level Pulse, a new Nokia Originals member (Nokia 3210), and a solid mid-range option (Skyline). However, one thing is still missing: their first true partner phone. I say “true” because I’m not counting the Boring phone made for Heineken’s promotional campaign, which was produced in 5,000 copies and distributed globally to partners. Although I liked that phone—especially its transparent casing, reminiscent of the flip phones we’ve seen before—it’s not quite the same.
Finally, it’s time for the first proper phone resulting from the partnership between HMD and Mattel: the feature phone for all the Barbies out there is here. HMD has announced the Barbie phone, which appears to be a slightly modified version of the Nokia 2660 Flip.
Check the specs:
- Dimensions: 108.4*55.1*18.9 mm
- Mass: 123.5g
- Display: 2.8” internal screen & 1.77” external screen
- Processor: UNISOC T107
- Storage: 128MB+64MB (ROM/RAM), Micro SD up to 32GB
- Connectivity: Bluetooth® (5.0), USB Type-C™, and 3.5mm AV jack
- Camera: VGA camera with torch as flash
- Battery: 1450mAh removable battery (Talk time up to 9 hours)
- Extra: MP3 Player, FM radio (Wired/Wireless)
- Networks: GSM/GPRS 900/1800, WCDMA, LTE Cat1 (Dual SIM/Single SIM)
- OS: S30+
The official datasheet of the Barbie phone (HMD TA-1681 DS) PDF version.
The HMD Barbie™ Phone is a feature phone designed to embrace the digital detox trend. HMD even included additional software like “Digital Balance Tips” and “BarbieMeditation” to help users feel better. In the settings, you’ll also find “Self-care Reminders”.
Carefully developed with Mattel, the phone combines vintage Barbie nostalgia with modern customizability. It includes interchangeable back covers (two are provided in the box), stick-on crystals, and retro Barbie stickers. The device features a bespoke Barbie-themed user interface with digital well-being tools, a 0.3MP camera for Y2K-style photos, and a battery that offers up to nine hours of talk time.
Priced at £99 (UK) or €129 (EU), it’s available from August 28, 2024, with a US version coming soon (the price will be the same or similar to the price in the EU). The phone is aimed at those seeking a fun, nostalgic break from smartphones.
If you think the price is too high for a feature phone, be sure to check out the contents of the sales package—it reminds me of the good old Nokia phone boxes that came packed with extras.
Sales package contents:
- HMD Barbie™ Phone
- Two extra back covers
- Pink battery
- Pink USB-A to USB Type-CTM charging cable
- Stickers and gem stickers
- Beaded lanyard and attachable charms
- Cleaning cloth
- Quick setup guide
