Could HMD’s “Wonka” Device Be the Return of Asha in Lumia Style?

Hikari Calyx recently shared photos and a video of a new HMD device codenamed Wonka, and it might just be the revival of the beloved Asha line. This curious little phone seems to blend the iconic Lumia and Asha design languages. Its rear camera module looks like something pulled straight from the Lumia 830 — centrally positioned and elegant — all housed in what could be a polycarbonate body.

The device gives off some serious Skyline vibes but in a more accessible, compact package. Fingers crossed that polycarbonate makes a return, as the sharp aluminum frame on the Skyline is a cloth-shredding hazard when dinged by a fall. Polycarbonate would not only bring nostalgia but also more practicality.

We don’t have any official specs yet, but from the released video, the UI doesn’t seem fully optimized. There’s noticeable lag, so some polishing is definitely needed before release. According to Hikari, this device builds on the Better Phone Project, which focuses on creating simple, purposeful communication devices. In that sense, this might be a modern take on the bridge between feature phones and smartphones — something Nokia once mastered.

HMD isn’t reinventing the wheel here; they’re just wrapping a tried-and-true concept in new packaging. And that’s not a bad thing. Simplicity could be a feature again. With its QWERTY keyboard and small touchscreen, this phone might become a perfect tool for fast texting and quick replies — not another scroll trap.

HMD has trademarked the Asha name at the EUIPO (although it expired in 2021), raising the possibility that this iconic brand could be brought back to life in a modern form. Whether it succeeds will depend on execution, but the idea itself is promising. A stylish, smart-looking feature phone in 2025? That actually sounds refreshing.

As for the release date, nothing has been confirmed yet — and honestly, it wouldn’t be too surprising if it never sees the light of day.