HMD Laptop Coming? Leaks Point to Intel-Powered Convertible
HMD Global, the Finnish manufacturer originally founded to steward the legacy of Nokia phones, appears to be preparing for its most significant hardware expansion to date. After years of focusing on feature phones, Android smartphones, and tablets, new leaks suggest the company is entering the personal computing market with a 2-in-1 Chromebook.
The development signals a continued effort by HMD to establish itself as a standalone hardware brand, distinct from its history as solely a licensee of the Nokia name.
HMD Laptop: Enter the Book CS-1 Flip
The information comes courtesy of industry tipster @smashx_60 on X (formerly Twitter), who has provided details on a device tentatively titled the HMD (Chrome)Book CS-1 Flip.
While the naming convention is a bit of a mouthful, the “Flip” designation offers a clear indication of the form factor. It suggests a convertible chassis with a 360-degree hinge, allowing the device to function as both a traditional laptop and a tablet. This design philosophy aligns with popular existing models in the sector, such as the Lenovo Flex or the ASUS Chromebook Flip series.
Under the Hood ofHMD Laptop: Intel Inside
While a comprehensive spec sheet remains elusive, the leak points to a notable hardware choice: the processor. HMD is reportedly opting for Intel silicon to power the CS-1 Flip.
This is a strategic decision. The entry-level Chromebook market is currently saturated with devices running on ARM-based chips, such as MediaTek’s Kompanio series, which prioritize battery life over raw power. By selecting an Intel architecture, HMD may be positioning this device as a mid-range productivity tool rather than a budget-bin educational device. However, details regarding screen size, RAM, and storage configurations are still unknown.
A New Chapter for HMD
If this device reaches production, it would mark HMD’s debut as a laptop manufacturer. It is important to distinguish this project from the “Nokia PureBook” laptops seen in recent years. Those devices were the result of a brand licensing agreement with an external partner (Off Global) and were not engineered or manufactured by HMD Global.
The CS-1 Flip, conversely, appears to be an in-house HMD product. This aligns with the company’s recent strategic pivot, which has seen them launch smartphones under their own HMD branding while emphasizing durability and user repairability. It remains to be seen if this “repairability first” ethos—a key selling point of their recent smartphones—will translate to their laptop design.
Entering a Crowded Arena
HMD faces a steep uphill battle. The Chromebook market is currently dominated by entrenched veterans like Acer, Samsung, HP, and Lenovo, who have effectively cornered both the consumer and education sectors.
To succeed, the HMD Book CS-1 Flip will need to offer more than just a 360-degree hinge. It will need to compete aggressively on price or offer unique hardware features that distinguish it from the sea of grey plastic rectangles currently on shelves.
While HMD has not officially commented on the leak, the existence of a specific model name suggests the project is past the conceptual stage. If the rumors hold true, we could see an official unveiling sooner rather than later.
