HMD Fusion X1 vs Fusion 5G – The Ultimate Modular Phone Showdown (Specs, Reviews & Future Reveals)

Introduction: HMD Global’s new Fusion series is shaking up the mid-range smartphone scene with modular accessories, robust parental controls, and promises of easy repairability. In this report, we pit the teen-focused HMD Fusion X1 against its sibling, the HMD Fusion 5G (8GB/256GB) – including the dual-SIM variant – to see how they compare on hardware, design, display, performance, camera, battery, software, and more. We’ll also highlight real-world expert reviews and unique selling points (and drawbacks) of these phones, and finish with a peek at upcoming HMD devices (as of August 2025) based on official announcements and credible leaks.

Hardware Specifications at a Glance

Both the Fusion X1 and Fusion 5G share an almost identical spec sheet, aiming to deliver solid mid-range performance with a modular twist. Here are the key specs and differences:

• Processor & Performance: Both phones are powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset – an octa-core (2×Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz + 6×A55) 5G-capable SoC with Adreno 613 GPU notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. This entry-level 5G chip handles everyday tasks well but struggles with heavier apps and gaming, as we’ll discuss later.
• Memory & Storage: The Fusion X1 comes with 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, while the Fusion 5G model packs 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage notebookcheck.net. Both support microSD expansion up to 1 TB and even offer a virtual RAM feature (memory extension) for an extra performance boost (up to 6 GB additional on the 6 GB variant, or up to 8 GB on the 8 GB model) hmd.com hmd.com. In practice, the extra RAM in the 8 GB model helps with multitasking, though benchmarks still place the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 behind many similarly priced competitors notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net.
• Display: Both feature a 6.56-inch IPS LCD with HD+ (720 × 1612) resolution and a smooth 90 Hz refresh rate hmd.com. The aspect ratio is a tall 20:9, and brightness peaks around 600 nits – usable indoors but a bit dim under harsh sunlight hmd.com. The screen is protected by a flat glass (Gorilla Glass generation not specified) and is surrounded by a durable plastic frame.
• Cameras: The rear camera setup is the same: a single 108 MP main camera (f/1.8, auto-focus with “Smart EIS” stabilization) paired with a 2 MP depth sensor and an LED flash hmd.com hmd.com. There’s no ultrawide or macro lens – HMD kept it simple with one high-res sensor for all shots. On the front, a high-resolution 50 MP selfie camera is housed in a waterdrop notch, fixed-focus hmd.com. By default the cameras use pixel-binning (combining pixels for better light), outputting 12 MP photos from the rear and ~12.5 MP from the front. We’ll see in the camera section how these perform in real life.
• Battery & Charging: Both phones carry a 5,000 mAh battery – plenty large for a mid-range device hmd.com. They support fast charging up to 33 W (USB-PD 3.0 and QC compatible) and can top up fully in around 1 ¾ hours from empty notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Despite the same battery, HMD cites slightly different endurance: the Fusion X1 is rated for up to 56 hours of use, whereas the Fusion 5G boasts up to 65 hours hmd.com hmd.com – likely due to testing conditions or software tweaks. In real-world use, you can expect roughly 2 days of moderate use on a charge, which is backed up by reviews (NotebookCheck got about 15 hours of Wi-Fi web surfing, slightly above average for this class) notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net.
• Build & Design: Modularity is the name of the game. Both devices have a unique “Tech Block” design – a sturdy plastic chassis with a transparent back by default, exposing screws and the battery for a rugged, techy look notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. This back cover isn’t just for style: it’s part of HMD’s easy-repair philosophy, allowing quick access to internals. The phones are fairly large but manageable (164.2 × 75.5 × 8.3 mm) and weigh about 200–202 g, giving a solid feel in hand hmd.com hmd.com. Only a Noir (black) color is offered, though the snap-on outfits (more on those soon) can add flashes of color. The devices have an IP52/IP54 rating (protection from dust and light splashes) – fine for rain or spills, but don’t go swimming with them fonearena.com fonearena.com.
• Connectivity & SIM: As the name suggests, 5G connectivity is supported (sub-6 GHz bands). You get dual-band Wi-Fi (up to Wi-Fi 5/ac, with Wi-Fi 6 “ax-ready” hardware for future-proofing) notebookcheck.net hmd.com, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC for contactless payments, and location services (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, etc.) hmd.com hmd.com. There’s also a 3.5 mm headphone jack – a welcome feature for wired audio hmd.com. Both phones support dual SIM functionality: one nano-SIM + one eSIM active at a time (or you can use the second slot for microSD instead of a physical SIM) notebookcheck.net. Some retail listings refer to a “dual-SIM” variant, but in practice all Fusion units can handle two lines – either via two physical SIMs (with one slot shared for microSD) or nano-SIM + eSIM combo notebookcheck.net hmd.com.
• Software: Out of the box, these phones run a clean Android 14 experience notebookcheck.net. HMD keeps the UI close to stock Android – no heavy skins – which means a clean, bloat-free interface. Notably, HMD implements a “Balance” theme on the home screen: by default many app icons are greyscale to promote “digital detox” and reduce the urge to tap (you can switch back to colored icons easily if you prefer) notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. The Fusion X1, being part of HMD’s new Family lineup, goes further with parental controls (discussed in Software section). HMD has promised 2 OS version upgrades (up to Android 16) and 3 years of security updates for these devices notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Specifically, they commit to updates through 2027, which is decent for phones in this price range, though a bit short of some rivals’ promises of 4+ years notebookcheck.net.

In summary, on paper the Fusion X1 and Fusion 5G (8GB) are almost twins – same display, same processor, same cameras and battery – with the main hardware difference being the RAM/storage configuration (and the accessories included). Now let’s dive deeper into each aspect and see how they perform and what unique features they bring.

Design and Build: A Modular, Family-Friendly Approach

Both Fusion models boast a distinctive design that sets them apart from typical slab smartphones. HMD has literally left the back cover transparent, revealing the phone’s internals and the modular POGO pin connectors. The idea is that users can “dress up” the phone with Smart Outfits, which are essentially snap-on back covers that add both style and extra functionality. Out of the box, the Fusion X1 comes with two outfits – a “Casual Outfit” (protective case) and a “Flashy Outfit” (a snap-on ring light for selfies) hmd.com hmd.com. The Fusion 5G retail package in markets like India actually includes all three main outfits – Casual (clear case), Flashy (ring-light case), and Gaming Outfit (a set of clip-on game controller pads) – a bundle valued at ₹5,999 included free fonearena.com fonearena.com. These Smart Outfits truly make the Fusion stand out: you can transform the phone into a handheld console with physical game controls, extend its battery or add wireless charging via future outfits, or simply change the look with different colors and styles hmd.com hmd.com. The outfits attach like a normal case and interface with the phone’s pins to enable their features, and HMD has even made a toolkit available for developers to create custom modular add-ons notebookcheck.net. It’s a modern twist reminiscent of the Moto Mods concept from 2016, but done in a more budget-friendly way notebookcheck.net.

In terms of build quality, both devices use a textured polycarbonate (plastic) frame and back (when an outfit is on). Despite the modular back, the phones feel solid and sturdy – NotebookCheck noted the Fusion “can hardly be twisted or dented” and the roughened matte finish gives a secure grip notebookcheck.net fonearena.com. Without any outfit attached, the phone is very slim (8.3 mm) and you can see the battery and screws – HMD even includes a transparent hard-shell case so you can protect the phone while still flaunting its unusual look fonearena.com fonearena.com. With an outfit like the gamepad on, the profile becomes chunky and more rugged, trading elegance for utility notebookcheck.net. Weighing just over 200 grams, the Fusion isn’t lightweight but is on par with other large-screen phones; users report it feels substantial but not unwieldy.

The “Tech Block” aesthetic is somewhat polarizing – some love the edgy, exposed-tech vibe, while others might find it gimmicky – but it’s undeniably unique in a world of lookalike phones fonearena.com. The black color scheme keeps it subdued, letting the snap-on colored cases (there are blue, pink, cyan options sold separately) provide personalization hmd.com hmd.com. Practical design touches include the side-mounted fingerprint sensor integrated into the power button for quick unlocking, and IP5X splash resistance which protects against dust and light rain hmd.com fonearena.com. There’s also a bit of focus on ruggedness: while not a full “rugged phone,” the easy repair design means if you crack the screen or wear out the battery, service centers (or confident users) can swap those parts relatively easily. In fact, HMD partnered with iFixit to provide repair guides and sell spare parts like displays, charging ports and batteries for the Fusion series, making it a rare DIY-friendly device in this class hmd.com notebookcheck.net.

Bottom line: The Fusion phones have a refreshingly different design that balances style with family-friendly durability. The modular Smart Outfits are the headline feature – adding tangible value and fun (a ring-light for TikTok, controller grips for gaming, etc.) that you simply don’t get from other budget phones notebookcheck.net fonearena.com. If you prefer a minimalist, thin phone, you can use it without bulky mods and enjoy its slim profile; if you want to play, just snap on an outfit. HMD has managed to make modularity affordable and user-friendly here.

Display: Large and Smooth, But Not the Sharpest

Both the Fusion X1 and Fusion 5G sport a 6.56-inch IPS LCD display (720p HD+ @ 90 Hz) hmd.com. On one hand, this screen has strengths: the 90 Hz refresh rate makes animations and scrolling look noticeably smoother than a basic 60 Hz panel, and the color reproduction and viewing angles are decent thanks to the IPS technology. On the other hand, the resolution is only HD+ (1612 × 720 pixels), which stretched across 6.56 inches yields about 269 ppi density – noticeably less sharp than the 1080p (FHD) displays common in this price segment notebookcheck.net. If you’re used to a Full HD screen, you may spot some pixelation in fine text and a general lack of crispness. Competitors like the CMF Phone 1 (priced similarly) offer a 120 Hz AMOLED at 1080p for example, which delivers richer contrast and sharper detail notebookcheck.net fonearena.com.

HMD likely chose the 720p LCD to conserve battery and prioritize repairability and cost. Indeed, the display is one of the easier components to replace (no curved edges or in-display sensors to worry about) fonearena.com. It’s also part of why the battery life is so good – fewer pixels to push means less power draw, and it helps the modest GPU manage graphics better in games notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. But pure image quality does suffer a bit: FoneArena’s review noted the display “falls short” of rivals with sharper AMOLEDs, citing visible backlight bleeding and an overactive ambient light sensor that sometimes dims the screen too much fonearena.com fonearena.com. The peak brightness ~600 nits is acceptable indoors, but in direct sunlight the screen can be hard to read, partly due to reflections (no fancy anti-glare or high brightness mode here) fonearena.com fonearena.com. During normal use, though, most users find it perfectly fine for YouTube, messaging, and web browsing. The colors are reasonably punchy for an LCD and you can always bump up font size or zoom if you want things a bit larger on the lower-res panel.

One thing to keep in mind is that no HDR support is advertised – it’s a standard SDR display. Also, since it’s LCD, blacks are not as deep as on OLED screens. However, HMD did ensure there’s no PWM flicker (which can bother those sensitive to low-frequency OLED dimming) – NotebookCheck confirmed the Fusion’s LCD is flicker-free at all brightness levels notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. That’s a small plus for eye comfort. Touch responsiveness is good and the 90 Hz refresh does make everyday interactions smoother.

Overall, the Fusion’s display is adequate but not a standout. It’s big and smooth, great for watching videos or scrolling through social feeds, but simply not as sharp or bright as many competitors’ screens. This is one area where HMD clearly compromised to hit a price point fonearena.com fonearena.com. For the target users (especially teens using X1 as a first smartphone), the screen is likely “good enough,” but spec-savvy buyers should temper their expectations here.

Performance and Software: Entry-Level Chip, Near-Stock Android

At the heart of both Fusion phones is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, which is Qualcomm’s entry-level 5G SoC built for affordable devices. It’s an 8-core processor (2 performance cores + 6 efficiency cores) and comes paired with an Adreno 613 GPU. In everyday use, this chip performs smoothly for basic tasks: navigating the interface, chatting on WhatsApp, streaming video, and casual games run without issues. The 8 GB RAM on the higher model also helps keep more apps in memory. However, when it comes to more demanding workloads, the limitations show. Benchmarks place the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 well below mid-range chips – for instance, in GeekBench multi-core it scores around 2,240 points, roughly half of what a mid-tier Snapdragon 7 series can do notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Graphics performance is particularly weak; GPU-intensive games will run only at low settings. Modern 3D games like PUBG or Genshin Impact are playable only with reduced details and occasional frame drops. FoneArena noted that even with graphics settings turned down, the Fusion struggled to maintain high frame rates in demanding titles, and background app switches could feel sluggish at times fonearena.com fonearena.com. This is definitely not a phone for power users or hardcore gamers – it’s built for moderate use.

That said, the lower screen resolution actually helps in on-screen tests: since the GPU isn’t pushing as many pixels, games at 720p are a bit easier to handle than they would be at 1080p notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Day-to-day, most casual users will find the performance acceptable. The UI is generally stutter-free, and simpler games (Subway Surfers, Candy Crush, etc.) run just fine. Importantly, the phone doesn’t overheat or throttle under load. Thanks to the efficient 6nm chipset and modest performance, the Fusion stays cool even after long gaming sessions notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. NotebookCheck’s stress tests showed consistent performance without severe thermal throttling notebookcheck.net. So while it’s not fast, it is steady.

On the software side, HMD deserves credit. Both devices run a very clean Android 14. There are no heavy custom UI skins – it’s close to Pixel-like Android, which means a clean layout and easy navigation. HMD did pre-load a few third-party apps (in some regions Facebook, some regional apps), but you can uninstall any bloatware easily notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. The interface customization is minimal: one notable tweak is HMD’s “Balance” mode icons, where the home screen icons are monochrome by default to reduce distraction (part of the “digital wellbeing” theme). If you prefer normal colorful icons, it’s a quick setting change to revert notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. The Fusion X1 model, in particular, is part of HMD’s Family portfolio and has extra software controls for parents. By default, the X1 comes with no social media or browser enabled – a parent or guardian must explicitly allow those when they think the teen is ready hmd.com. The phone essentially starts in a safe mode: you can whitelist specific apps and contacts, manage screen time, set a “school mode” (which disables distractions during homework or class), and even get real-time location tracking and geofence alerts through the partnered Xplora app hmd.com hmd.com. HMD touts this as a phone that “starts with nothing, allowing you to create the phone your teen is ready for” hmd.com. These robust parental controls require a subscription to Xplora’s services after a trial period hmd.com hmd.com, but they are deeply integrated (not just a simple launcher overlay – it’s baked into the OS and not easily bypassed by savvy kids hmd.com). This approach garnered attention at launch; as HMD’s CEO said, “The HMD Fusion X1… lays the foundation for teens’ healthy digital habits with parental controls and no social media or internet unless enabled by the guardian” hmd.com. For families seeking a “first smartphone” that doesn’t immediately grant full internet access, the X1 is a unique offering. (Of course, the Fusion 5G model has the same capability under the hood, but it’s marketed more to general users – you wouldn’t necessarily enable all those restrictions if not needed.)

In terms of updates and longevity, HMD promises 2 major Android version updates (so up to Android 16 by around 2026) and 3 years of security patches (monthly for 2 years, then quarterly for the 3rd year) notebookcheck.net hmd.com. This means your Fusion phone should stay secure and get new features for a respectable period, though it’s not as long as the 4-5 years some Samsung and Fairphone devices offer. Still, for a ~$250 device, a 3-year update promise is considered good and was noted positively in reviews notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Indeed, HMD has delivered Android 14 out of the box and is likely to push Android 15 in 2025. The security is further boosted by features like the side fingerprint reader and an AI-based face unlock. And for enterprise or privacy-conscious users, the near-stock Android means fewer pre-installed trackers and a commitment to keep things patched.

In summary, performance is sufficient for everyday use but don’t expect miracles – heavy apps will remind you this is a budget phone. The software experience, however, is a strong point: clean Android with no-nonsense UI and special family safety features on the X1. HMD’s emphasis on digital wellbeing (like the Detox mode and parental controls) gives the Fusion series an identity beyond just specs.

Camera Capabilities: 108 MP Shooter – Hype or Hit?

On paper, a 108 MP rear camera in an affordable phone sounds almost too good to be true. And indeed, the Fusion’s camera setup is both a highlight and a limitation. There’s effectively one real camera on the back – the 108 MP main sensor (likely a Samsung HM2 or similar sensor) – accompanied only by a 2 MP depth sensor that helps with portrait shots but doesn’t capture images itself hmd.com hmd.com. There’s no ultra-wide lens and no dedicated macro, so all your rear camera photos rely on that single high-res sensor. The front camera is a hefty 50 MP unit, which again is unusually high resolution for the price.

How do these perform in practice? When shooting in the default mode, the 108 MP sensor uses 9‑in‑1 pixel binning, effectively taking 12 MP photos. In good lighting, the Fusion’s main camera can capture pleasing shots: colors are fairly natural and it can produce nice background blur (bokeh) thanks to the large sensor. Details in daylight are usable but not quite as crisp as one might expect from 108 MP – the phone’s image processing isn’t on par with flagship devices. Reviewers noted that fine textures can look soft, and dynamic range is limited: bright skies might blow out and shadows can lose detail notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. In other words, it’s a decent camera for casual snaps and social media, but it won’t challenge true camera-centric phones. Still, at this price, many rivals only offer 50 MP or 64 MP shooters, so having those extra pixels does allow for some flexibility – for example, the Fusion offers an in-sensor 3× digital zoom that produces surprisingly usable images by cropping from the 108 MP data fonearena.com fonearena.com. This means you can zoom in a bit without the image immediately turning to mush, which is handy since there’s no telephoto lens.

In low light or high-contrast scenes, the Fusion’s camera quality drops to merely okay. Without optical stabilization (it only has EIS) and with a smaller sensor than true flagships, night shots are often dark and lacking detail. There is a Night Mode, but reviews found it only moderately improves brightness and often results in soft images with some noise fonearena.com. Don’t expect clear shots in very dark conditions – this isn’t a Pixel or iPhone Night Sight experience. Indoors and evening shots are fine for social media, but if you pixel-peep you’ll see the quality limitations (blurry details, some color noise).

The 50 MP front camera, meanwhile, is quite good for selfies. By default it likely bins to around 12.5 MP. Selfies come out detailed and with a decent dynamic range, so even with bright backgrounds your face is exposed well notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. The beauty filters are kept minimal unless you turn them on, which many will appreciate. With the Flashy Outfit (ring light) attached, the phone can take well-lit selfies even in dark environments – a fun bonus for the selfie enthusiasts or TikTok creators. HMD also included some fun modes like “selfie slow-mo” and gesture controls to trigger selfies without touching the shutter hmd.com hmd.com, clearly aiming at younger users who like creative camera features.

When it comes to video, the Fusion maxes out at 1080p resolution at 60 fps on the rear camera notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. There’s no 4K recording, likely due to chipset limitations. Full HD videos look acceptable; the electronic stabilization (EIS) helps smooth minor shakes, though it’s not as steady as OIS. The autofocus during video can occasionally hunt or take a moment to lock when shifting between subjects, but the exposure adjusts quickly when you move between lit and dark areas notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Audio in videos is surprisingly good – HMD leverages OZO Audio recording, meaning it uses the two microphones to capture spatial stereo sound. This is great for picking up clear voices in a scene. For casual family videos or vlog snippets, the Fusion is perfectly serviceable.

One pleasant surprise: HMD included a Pro mode in the camera app (on both front and back cameras) where enthusiasts can tweak settings like ISO, shutter speed, white balance, etc. fonearena.com fonearena.com. This allows you to squeeze the best out of that 108 MP sensor if you know what you’re doing, or to shoot at full 108 MP resolution for maximum detail (with the caveat that each full-res shot takes a few seconds to process and eats up ~20 MB of storage). For most people, the auto mode is fine, but it’s nice to have manual controls in a budget device.

Overall, the Fusion’s cameras are better than you might expect at this price in some ways, but also constrained by the phone’s budget roots. Tech site FoneArena even called the camera system the Fusion’s “standout feature, punching well above its weight in this price segment” fonearena.com, praising the sharp daylight images and solid portraits. NotebookCheck’s assessment was more tempered, noting that while daylight shots are usable, the camera quality is “average” and nowhere near high-end camera phones, especially in low light notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. There is no substitute for a true multi-camera array with ultra-wide or optical zoom, so creative photography is limited. But for a single-lens budget phone, the HMD Fusion does a respectable job – your Instagram posts and video calls will look just fine, and the high resolution sensors give you some flexibility to crop or print photos if needed. Just remember its limits: best results in good lighting, and don’t expect miracle night shots.

Battery Life and Charging: Goes the Distance

Battery endurance is a strong suit for the Fusion series. A 5000 mAh battery combined with the power-efficient Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 and the lower-res display yields excellent battery life. HMD’s own testing rated the phones for well over two days of use per charge (56–65 hours) hmd.com hmd.com, and in practice many users can get 2 full days before needing to plug in. In a standardized Wi-Fi web browsing test, the Fusion lasted about 15 hours 15 minutes notebookcheck.net – which outpaces several competitors and all but guarantees a full day of heavy usage. One tech expert noted the Fusion “lasts a little longer than many of its competitors and should also survive two days of normal use without charging” notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. This makes it ideal for teens who might forget to charge nightly, or anyone who travels and needs the phone to last.

Contributing to the great battery life is the efficient 6nm chipset and the lack of any battery-hungry features like 5G mmWave or an always-on display (the Fusion doesn’t have AOD). The software also includes the usual Android battery saver modes and HMD hasn’t loaded any particularly power-draining bloatware.

When you do need to recharge, the phones support fast charging up to 33 W via USB-C. Notably, in most markets HMD does not include a charger in the box, citing e-waste reduction (you get a USB-C cable but no wall adapter) hmd.com. However, there is one big exception: in India, the Fusion 5G retail box does include a 33W charger for free hmd.com hmd.com, likely due to local market expectations or regulations. Using a compatible PD charger, you can juice the phone from 0 to 100% in around 1 hour 45 minutes notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. It’s not the fastest in the world (some phones now do 50W+ and charge in under an hour), but it’s on par with peers – and importantly, the Fusion supports both USB-PD and Qualcomm QuickCharge standards, so it works with a variety of chargers. Even a 15-20 minute top-up can give you many hours of use thanks to the big battery.

The Fusion phones do not support wireless charging out of the box, but HMD has cleverly made it possible through an accessory. One of the Smart Outfit cases (sold separately) is expected to add Qi wireless charging capability to the phone by integrating a coil into the snap-on case which connects via the pogo pins notebookcheck.net. This case wasn’t included in the standard bundle, but HMD has mentioned that adding wireless charging or extra battery capacity is as simple as changing the outfit hmd.com hmd.com. Additionally, HMD announced an interesting accessory called Amped Buds whose charging case can double as a wireless charger for the phone hmd.com hmd.com – an innovative twist on battery sharing. These forward-thinking add-ons complement the Fusion’s focus on endurance.

One more battery-related perk: the Fusion X1 will alert parents if the phone’s battery is running low (through the linked parent app) hmd.com hmd.com, so you can nag your teen to charge it before it dies. A small feature, but thoughtful for the target audience.

In summary, battery life on the Fusion X1/5G is excellent – easily a two-day phone for most users, which is a big advantage in its category. Charging at 33W is decent if not class-leading, and the omission of an in-box charger (outside India) is a slight annoyance mitigated by HMD’s eco-friendly rationale. Overall, if longevity is a priority, the Fusion delivers.

Connectivity and Extras: 5G, Dual SIM and More

The Fusion series is well-equipped in terms of modern connectivity. Both phones support 5G networks (sub-6 GHz) with a wide range of bands. The exact band support can vary by region, but globally the Fusion covers common 5G bands like n1, n3, n5, n7, n20, n28, n40, n77/n78, etc., making it usable on most carriers in Europe and Asia notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. In India, for example, the device is advertised with n78 and n40 (the primary Indian 5G bands) among others hmd.com hmd.com. It’s not a “world phone” with every single band, but it has enough to get 5G in many places. Importantly, U.S. 5G band support is limited – and HMD has scaled back its U.S. presence as of 2025 notebookcheck.net – so if you’re importing one, check compatibility (in the U.S. it may fall back to 4G LTE on some carriers).

For local connectivity, you have dual-band Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac). HMD’s spec mentions “Wi-Fi 6 ax-ready”, which caused some confusion hmd.com. In NotebookCheck’s testing, the Fusion behaved like a Wi-Fi 5 device in terms of throughput notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. It’s possible the hardware could support Wi-Fi 6 with a future update, but currently you should expect solid Wi-Fi 5 performance (around 300–350 Mbps in real-world tests, which is fine for most home internet speeds) notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Bluetooth 5.1 is on board for wireless accessories, and as noted, NFC is present for Google Pay and the like hmd.com hmd.com.

One big convenience factor: the 3.5 mm headphone jack. As many phones ditch the jack, the Fusion proudly keeps it, allowing you to plug in standard earphones or an AUX cable in your car hmd.com. This is especially nice for teens who may have inexpensive wired earbuds or for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with Bluetooth headphones all the time.

The Fusion supports FM radio (when earphones are plugged in as an antenna) thanks to the Snapdragon SoC’s radio tuner – a nice bonus for markets where radio is still popular. On the audio side, the phone has a single bottom-firing mono speaker. It gets fairly loud but is a bit tinny with not much bass (music sounds okay, voices are clear for speakerphone) notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. The inclusion of Qualcomm aptX Adaptive and LDAC codec support means if you do use quality Bluetooth headphones, you can get high-res audio and low latency hmd.com notebookcheck.net – a plus for audio enthusiasts.

Now, about the SIM setup. The physical SIM tray is a hybrid design: it can hold either two Nano-SIM cards or one Nano-SIM + one microSD card notebookcheck.net. So, out of the box you can have dual SIMs (for two different numbers/carriers) but you’d have to forego microSD expansion in that case. However, because the Fusion also has an eSIM, you actually can have dual SIM and microSD simultaneously by using one physical SIM + one eSIM + the microSD card notebookcheck.net. Many retailers label the phone as “Dual SIM” meaning it’s capable of two active lines. There is no region-lock nonsense; these are factory unlocked GSM devices, ready for any carrier that their bands support. If you see a listing for “8GB/256GB Dual-SIM”, it’s essentially the same as the standard Fusion 5G – just highlighting the dual SIM capability which all units have via eSIM hmd.com. HMD even provides a user guide explaining how to use the eSIM if you don’t have a second physical SIM slot free hmd.com. All told, the SIM flexibility is great – you can mix-and-match physical and embedded SIMs to suit your needs.

Other notable extras include: GPS/AGPS with support for GLONASS, Beidou, Galileo – navigation is quick and accurate, which is useful for location tracking features of the X1 as well hmd.com. There’s an FM radio receiver (not heavily advertised, but present). The sensor array is standard: accelerometer, gyroscope, proximity, ambient light, and e-compass hmd.com. You do not get fancy stuff like an IR blaster or barometer, but that’s expected at this price. HMD did include an interesting “SafeZone” geofencing function via the Xplora app where you can set zones and get alerts when the phone enters or leaves (useful for parents monitoring a child’s whereabouts) hmd.com – that’s more of a service feature than hardware, leveraging GPS.

One more thing: Security. Both models have a side-mounted fingerprint scanner (built into the power button) which is fast and convenient hmd.com hmd.com. They also support Face Unlock using the front camera hmd.com hmd.com. It’s not as secure as 3D face systems, but it works fine for quick unlocking in good light. For a teen-focused phone, having fingerprint unlock means parents can also register their fingerprint if they want access. Additionally, HMD emphasizes that the devices will get regular security patches for 3 years and that everything is stock Android (no unnecessary data collection) – plus the X1 has extra content filtering via partners like SafeToNet planned hmd.com. So users (and parents) can feel confident about privacy and safety on these phones.

Pricing and Market Availability

HMD has priced the Fusion series quite aggressively given the unique features on offer. The HMD Fusion X1 was first unveiled at MWC 2025 as part of the Family lineup, with a price around €269–€299 in Europe for the 6GB/128GB model notebookcheck.net. In the UK it launched at £229 (as noted by some tech blogs) mobileindustryreview.com, making it quite affordable for a “first smartphone for your teen.” The X1 is sold through HMD’s own site and select retailers in Europe. It’s also available in markets like Australia (JB Hi-Fi lists the Fusion 5G at AU$449) jbhifi.com.au and in parts of Asia.

The HMD Fusion 5G (8GB/256GB) model has been notably pushed in India. It launched there in mid-2024 at ₹22,999 MRP, but HMD quickly offered discounts to around ₹17,999 (roughly $215 USD) hmd.com hmd.com. At that price, it comes with all three Smart Outfits included, which is a solid value-add. In India, it’s available via HMD’s website and retail partners, and is manufactured locally (HMD has assembly in Uttar Pradesh, India, according to the spec sheet) hmd.com. The Fusion 5G is also sold in some European countries (it has popped up on Amazon Germany and Amazon US through third-party sellers for around $300 for the 8/256 variant notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net). HMD Global did announce they would scale back direct sales in the US notebookcheck.net – meaning you won’t see the Fusion in carrier stores or widespread marketing there – but interested U.S. buyers can still import an unlocked unit (bearing in mind limited 5G band support and no official warranty support in the US).

Global availability: The Fusion series, being HMD’s own brand, is not as widely distributed as Nokia-branded phones used to be. Key markets include Europe (EU and UK), India, parts of APAC, and Australia/New Zealand. In Europe, the phone is often sold online (Amazon, etc.) and through select retailers in Germany, UK, etc., but it’s somewhat niche. Given HMD’s focus, the X1 is positioned as a device parents would order online after hearing about it, rather than something you see in every phone shop window.

As of August 2025, the prices have softened a bit. The 6/128 variant can be found around $250 or even under €250 on sale notebookcheck.net, and the 8/256 variant around €270–300 (when not discounted) notebookcheck.net. HMD might also run bundle promotions (for instance, including extra outfits or subscription trials). Importantly, the included accessories add value: the Gaming Outfit alone, if sold separately, would cost extra, but HMD generously bundles it in certain regions.

Competition and value: At retail price, the Fusion faces competition from devices like the Xiaomi Poco series, Moto G series, and newcomer brands like Nothing’s CMF. Many of those competitors offer stronger processors or higher-res displays for similar money. HMD is betting that the unique features (modularity, repairability, parental controls) justify choosing the Fusion. For some buyers, they absolutely will – for example, if you specifically want a phone with snap-on game controls and a ring light, the Fusion basically stands alone in that niche at this price. For a parent, the peace of mind features might be priceless. But a pure spec-to-price comparison would favor some competitors. This is something reviewers have pointed out: “The Fusion 5G enters a competitive segment where rivals often boast more advanced specifications… potential buyers may question if the extras justify the cost” fonearena.com fonearena.com. The good news is that HMD’s frequent discounts and bundles do sweeten the deal.

In conclusion, the Fusion X1 and 5G are affordable phones with a twist. They’re not trying to be the absolute cheapest devices, but they offer value through features rather than raw specs. As of now, they’re widely available in India and Europe, with other regions catching up via online sales. If you’re in North America, you’ll have to import one. And if you do, note that after-sales support might be region-limited – but on the flip side, the phone is designed so you might fix minor issues yourself if you’re brave enough (with iFixit guides to assist).

Real-World Reviews and User Feedback

Tech experts and early adopters have had a lot to say about the HMD Fusion phones. The feedback is generally positive about the concept and features, but mixed on some of the core specs. Here’s a roundup of what reviewers and users are saying:

• NotebookCheck (who scored the Fusion around 72% or “Good”) praised the modular concept, stating “the HMD Fusion gains flexibility thanks to the Smart Outfits”, and noted positives like the good battery life, eSIM capability, repair-friendly build, and a “decent update promise” of 3 years notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. However, their review also highlighted cons such as “moderate system performance”, a low-resolution display that’s dim outdoors, and “low camera quality” in comparison to higher-end phones notebookcheck.net. They concluded it’s a decent mid-range device made special by its modularity, though not a performance powerhouse notebookcheck.net. Notably, they compared it to the Fairphone (known for repairability) and found the Fusion still not as easy to repair (you need some tools), but much more affordable notebookcheck.net.
• FoneArena (India) in their Fusion 5G review lauded the phone’s design and customization, saying its “bold, futuristic aesthetic” and included ₹5,999 worth of outfits give it an edge in style fonearena.com fonearena.com. They were impressed with the camera’s capabilities for the price, calling it “excellent” in some scenarios and a refreshing take on what a budget phone can deliver fonearena.com fonearena.com. On the flip side, their review noted the compromises in display quality and raw processing power, essentially warning that the screen and chipset are entry-level for the segment fonearena.com fonearena.com. They recommended the Fusion for casual users who value customization and reliability over high specs.
• Digit.in summed it up succinctly: “The HMD Fusion is a stylish device with clever add-ons but lacks the substance to compete effectively in its segment.” digit.in They liked the concept (clever modular cases, good-looking phone) but felt that core features like the display resolution and chipset might leave spec-focused buyers wanting more.
• Wired magazine’s review (titled “A Cheap Modular Android Phone”) appreciated that for around $300, you get a phone that “has a trick up its sleeve that no other phone has today: mods.” They found the phone decent overall, but the novelty of mods really stood out ebay.com. Wired and others also pointed out that HMD’s approach here harks back to LG and Motorola’s old modular attempts – though HMD is doing it on a budget device, which is interesting for the industry.
• User feedback on forums and social media: Early buyers of the Fusion X1 (especially parents) report that the parental control features are a game changer for managing their kids’ phone use. Setting app limits and tracking location via the Guardian app gave many parents peace of mind. Teens who used the phone, on the other hand, mostly talk about the outfits – the ring light case is popular for selfies and video calls, and the game controller outfit gets a thumbs up for improving gameplay on titles like racing and platformers (though don’t expect to run high-end games smoothly). Some users did wish the phone had an ultrawide camera or a 1080p screen, but others argue that at the price, “you can’t have it all.” There’s also appreciation for the stock Android experience – little to no bloat and a focus on privacy.
• The modular developer community is small but growing. HMD open-sourced the toolkit for outfits, and a few tinkerers have discussed 3D-printing custom backs or adding mods (one idea floating around: an extended battery pack outfit for camping trips). It remains to be seen if third-party accessories will take off, but the potential is there notebookcheck.net.

To encapsulate the expert sentiment, one line from FoneArena stands out: “The Fusion 5G’s combination of easy repairability, decent performance, and excellent camera capabilities offers a refreshing take on what a budget phone can deliver.” fonearena.com fonearena.com That captures the balance of what this phone is – not perfect, but refreshing and different in a good way. Conversely, from the critical side, Digit’s note about lacking substance in some core areas digit.in is a fair caution: if you only care about raw specs for the money, the Fusion might not top the charts. But if you value versatility, safety features, and sustainability, it punches above its weight.

Unique Selling Points and Drawbacks

Every phone has its pros and cons, but the HMD Fusion series has some distinctive strengths that set it apart, as well as a few notable weaknesses to consider:

Unique Selling Points (Pros):

• Modular Smart Outfits: The headline feature – no other current phone in this class offers modular, snap-on accessories that expand functionality. From the Gaming Outfit’s controller pads to the Flashy Outfit’s selfie ring light, these add real utility and fun notebookcheck.net fonearena.com. Plus, the open toolkit could mean even more third-party or DIY mods in the future. It’s a conversation starter and a genuinely useful differentiator.
• Easy Repairability: HMD designed the Fusion with repair in mind. The back comes off with standard screws, and components like the screen, battery, and charging port can be replaced without deep expertise notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. They’ve partnered with iFixit to provide guides and parts notebookcheck.net. For consumers, this means the phone could last longer – a cracked screen doesn’t mean a death sentence or expensive repair shop visit. In a world of sealed-glass phones, this is a breath of fresh air, second only to something like Fairphone in the sustainability aspect.
• Parental Controls & Digital Wellbeing Focus: The Fusion X1 especially is built around family use. Features like no default social apps or web browser, granular app approval, screen time limits, location tracking, geofenced safe zones, and even battery low alerts for parents hmd.com hmd.com set it apart as a “first phone for your kid” option. The inclusion of a Detox mode (greyscale icons) and emphasis on healthy phone use is a unique philosophical stance by HMD notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. If you’re a parent worried about giving a smartphone to your tween or young teen, the X1’s feature set directly addresses those concerns.
• Strong Battery Life: With its 2-day battery longevity, the Fusion can outlast many competitors. For users, that means less anxiety about finding a charger. Combined with 33W fast charge support and potential for add-on battery mods, it’s a very power-friendly device notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net.
• Clean Android with Updates: You get a clean Android 14 experience with promised updates to Android 15 and 16, and security patches for 3 years notebookcheck.net. No annoying ads or heavy skins to deal with, unlike some budget phone rivals. It’s a phone that should stay relatively fresh and secure through 2027 notebookcheck.net.
• Good Camera for the Price: While not a multi-camera array, the 108 MP main shooter and 50 MP selfie cam perform admirably in daylight. You can capture sharp photos and high-res selfies that blow many other budget phones out of the water (most have 50 MP or less). Features like 1080p 60fps video with OZO audio, Pro mode, and decent digital zoom give aspiring photographers plenty to play with fonearena.com fonearena.com. In simple terms, it’s a fun camera setup for social media use.
• Stereo audio codecs + Headphone Jack: Audiophiles will appreciate aptX Adaptive and LDAC support for high-quality Bluetooth audio hmd.com, and everyone appreciates having the trusty 3.5mm jack. It’s great that HMD didn’t cut this corner.
• Dual SIM flexibility: Having both an eSIM and physical dual-SIM tray makes the Fusion extremely flexible for travelers or anyone juggling work/personal numbers. You can even use dual SIM and a microSD together (via eSIM), which many phones can’t do notebookcheck.net.
• Affordability of Accessories: The fact that HMD bundles the outfits in many cases (especially the Fusion 5G package) is a plus – you’re not nickel-and-dimed for the unique features; they come included. Even if you need to buy extras, they are far cheaper than say Moto Mods were. This adds to overall value.

Drawbacks (Cons):

• Mediocre Display Resolution: The HD+ (720p) resolution on a 6.56″ panel is a clear step down from the 1080p screens on similarly priced phones fonearena.com. It’s not as sharp for reading small text or enjoying high-res videos. Also, the LCD’s brightness and contrast are just average, making outdoor visibility a challenge fonearena.com. If you’re particular about display quality, this might be a compromise too far.
• Entry-Level Performance: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, while efficient, is not a powerhouse. Competing phones in the ~$250 range often pack faster SoCs (Snapdragon 6 series or MediaTek Dimensity chips) that outperform it by a significant margin notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. Heavy multitasking or gaming will remind you that this is a budget device. If you demand snappy performance or play a lot of 3D games, you could be underwhelmed. As one reviewer put it, the Fusion “struggles with more demanding tasks” and power users may find it lacking fonearena.com fonearena.com.
• Limited Camera Versatility: Yes, it has a high-res main camera, but you only get that one lens (plus a depth sensor). There’s no ultra-wide for expansive shots, no telephoto for true optical zoom, and no macro for close-ups. Many budget phones now at least include an ultra-wide camera for flexibility. So you’re a bit constrained creatively – the Fusion camera is a one-trick pony (albeit a decent trick). Low-light photography is also a weak area; night mode is there but results are only so-so notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net.
• Display Compromises for Modularity: The use of an IPS LCD (instead of AMOLED) and the chunky bezels are partly due to the modular design and repair focus. This means you miss out on features like always-on display or truly deep blacks. Also, the screen has a noticeable “air gap” and backlight glow, as noted by reviews fonearena.com, which makes it feel less premium. It’s a trade-off: easier to replace and less expensive, but not as pretty to look at as some rival screens.
• No Wireless Charging (Without an Add-On): Out of the box, you can’t charge the Fusion on a wireless pad. While a wireless charging case is planned, that’s an extra accessory. Many mid-range phones now include Qi charging standard – the Fusion doesn’t (likely due to its removable back design). Not everyone cares about this, but it’s worth noting if you’re used to plopping your phone on a wireless charger.
• Niche Market and Availability: HMD’s distribution is not as widespread as bigger brands. Depending where you live, it might be hard to find local support or accessories. In the US, HMD phones are niche; in some regions, the brand is new (HMD Global is better known for Nokia phones). This could mean fewer third-party cases or peripherals in shops. It’s not a huge con, but those who want a phone everyone else has (for example, to easily find tips or custom ROMs or accessories) might feel a bit isolated.
• Subscription for Full Parental Features: The Xplora-powered parental controls on the X1 are fantastic, but after the free trial, it requires a subscription to keep using all features hmd.com hmd.com. Some parents might be put off by an ongoing cost (though it’s presumably modest). Without subscription, the phone still works but you lose some advanced monitoring tools. It’s something to consider in the long-term cost of the device if bought for a child.
• Just a Mono Speaker: In an age where even budget phones sometimes offer stereo speakers, the Fusion’s single bottom-firing speaker is a bit of a letdown for media consumption. It’s easy to accidentally muffle with your hand in landscape mode and doesn’t provide immersive sound (though it is loud enough for speakerphone calls).
• IP52/54, not fully waterproof: While it has some splash protection, the Fusion isn’t meant to survive serious water or dust exposure. Competing rugged phones or even some mid-rangers have higher IP ratings. Given the target market (teens outdoors, etc.), one might need to be a bit careful around pools or beaches.

Ultimately, the HMD Fusion’s pros revolve around its unique modular design, repairability, and family-friendly features, while the cons mostly stem from compromises in display, performance, and the omission of some common features to keep costs down. It’s not a phone built to win spec wars; it’s built to offer a different experience and solve specific user needs. If those align with your priorities, the Fusion is an easy recommendation. If not, you might lean toward a more traditional phone in the same price range.

Future Outlook: Upcoming HMD Smartphones (Late 2025 and Beyond)

HMD Global isn’t stopping with the Fusion – the company has been actively expanding its own-brand smartphone lineup (separate from the Nokia-branded devices) and has several new models in the pipeline. As of August 2025, here’s a peek at what’s next for HMD based on official hints and credible leaks:

• HMD Fusion 2: It’s only logical that a successor to the Fusion X1 is in the works. Indeed, an HMD product roadmap leak in April 2025 mentioned a “Fusion 2” notebookcheck.net. While details are scarce, we can speculate it will carry forward the modular concept, possibly with updated internals (maybe a Snapdragon 6-series chipset for more power) and perhaps an improved display (fingers crossed for Full HD). Since the first Fusion emphasized teen safety, a Fusion 2 could expand the concept or refine it with feedback from X1 users. Keep an eye out for news near late 2025 or MWC 2026 for a potential Fusion 2 announcement.
• HMD Skyline 2 and Skyline 2 GT: HMD launched the original Skyline in 2024 as a mid-range phone aimed at content creators (the Skyline had a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 and a “repair-it-yourself” ethos similar to Fusion). Leaked specs indicate that the Skyline 2 will upgrade to a Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 SoC, offering a nice performance bump notebookcheck.net. The Skyline 2 GT variant is rumored to be a higher-end model with up to 12 GB RAM, possibly a Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 chip, and features like a 144Hz display and 45W fast charging with Qi wireless support concept-phones.com channelnews.com.au. Essentially, the Skyline 2 series could be HMD’s answer to upper-midrange or affordable-flagship devices, focusing on speed and maybe camera improvements. These devices are expected to run Android 15 out of the box and launch by late 2025 gadgets.beebom.com gadgets.beebom.com. If you want something more powerful than the Fusion but still HMD-branded, the Skyline 2/GT might be worth waiting for.
• HMD Bold and HMD Crest 2: Leaks suggest HMD is readying some budget-friendly models with codenames “Bold” and “Crest 2.” These are reportedly powered by Unisoc chipsets – specifically, the HMD Crest 2 might use a Unisoc T8300 5G chip (octa-core with Cortex-A78 cores) and come in 4, 6, or 8 GB RAM variants gadgets.beebom.com gadgets.beebom.com. The HMD Bold is rumored with a slightly lower Unisoc T7250 (with Cortex-A75 cores) and 4 or 6 GB RAM options gadgets.beebom.com gadgets.beebom.com. These devices leaked via Geekbench scores and insiders on X (Twitter), indicating that HMD is targeting the ultra-budget segment, possibly in markets like India or Africa where Unisoc-powered phones can hit very low price points. Expect these to have modest HD+ displays (perhaps around 6.5″ 90Hz LCDs) and basic camera setups (one leak said Bold could have a 50 MP main camera) – essentially successors to earlier HMD budget models like the HMD Arc or HMD Pulse series.
• HMD Candy 5G: In July 2025, a leak revealed an upcoming phone called “HMD Candy 5G,” suggesting HMD is leaning into playful names. This Candy 5G is tipped to feature the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (same as the Fusion) but with some upgraded specs: a 120Hz IPS LCD and 108 MP rear + 50 MP front cameras – effectively bringing Fusion-like camera prowess to possibly a more youthful design notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. It’s said to have a 5,000 mAh battery with 33W charging and come in multiple colorful finishes notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. The Candy 5G sounds like a variant or spin-off of the Fusion concept (since it shares the chip and camera resolution), perhaps intended for markets like Europe or Asia as a fun, stylish budget 5G phone for late 2025. It might lack the modular outfits but focus on vibrant design instead – hence the name “Candy.”
• HMD Pulse 2 and Pulse 2+: Speaking of the Pulse series (HMD Pulse was an earlier entry-level phone, possibly Android Go based), leaks indicate Pulse 2 and Pulse 2+ are coming. These are ultra-budget devices expected to run Android 15 (Go Edition), with specs like a 6.67″ HD+ 90Hz display, Unisoc T7200 chipset, 4 GB RAM (with a 6 GB option on the Plus), and modest cameras (one rumor says Pulse 2+ gets a 50 MP main, whereas Pulse 2 has a 13 MP main, both with basic depth sensors and 8 MP selfies) gadgets.beebom.com gadgets.beebom.com. These will be aimed at the sub-$150 segment, likely in developing markets, focusing on large screen and 5G on a budget. They show HMD’s commitment to covering all price tiers.
• HMD XR22 (Rugged 5G): Fans of Nokia’s rugged phones (like the Nokia XR20/XR21) will be interested in HMD’s next rugged device. A leak from late 2024 suggests a “HMD XR22” is in development, slated to launch in 2025 as a successor to the Nokia XR21 phonearena.com. The XR22 is rumored to feature a tough build with IP69K and MIL-STD-810H durability, a 120Hz FHD+ OLED display (protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2), and a Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 chipset with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB storage phonearena.com phonearena.com. Camera-wise, it might upgrade to a triple camera system: 64 MP main, 8 MP ultra-wide, and an 8 MP “Night Vision” camera (possibly an IR sensor for pitch-dark photography) phonearena.com phonearena.com. A 50 MP selfie cam and a larger 5,520 mAh battery (33W charging) are also mentioned phonearena.com phonearena.com. This suggests HMD is continuing the rugged line under its own name, focusing on enterprise and outdoor consumers. The XR22 would likely run near-stock Android (with extra device management and security features for business clients) and could be positioned around the €500-600 mark if the XR21’s pricing is an indication phonearena.com.
• HMD Crest Max 5G: Interestingly, on HMD’s India website menu there’s an HMD Crest Max 5G listed. While details are sparse, the name implies a higher-end version of the Crest series. It could be another mid-range 5G device, possibly with a bigger display or battery (hence “Max”). This might tie into the earlier Crest 2 rumors or be a separate device. We’ll have to wait for HMD to reveal more, but keep an eye out for the Crest name if you want a non-modular, traditional smartphone from HMD.
• Special Editions and Others: HMD has shown a penchant for collaborations and special editions. At MWC 2025, they announced the HMD Barça Fusion – essentially a Fusion phone in FC Barcelona football club livery, featuring a special “Barça Detox Mode” with team-themed content hmd.com. They also launched feature phones like the HMD Barça 3210 (a nostalgic nod to the classic Nokia 3210, but in Barça colors) hmd.com. Moving forward, we might see more such partnerships (perhaps other sports teams or brands) to raise HMD’s profile. Additionally, HMD is expanding into accessories: the Amped Buds wireless earbuds (with the reverse wireless charging case) are one such example hmd.com, and there’s talk of HMD’s first smartwatch coming (leaks suggest it will run Wear OS and even have a camera) notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. All these tie into an ecosystem HMD is building around its phones.

Official Announcements vs Leaks: Officially, HMD has confirmed it will continue launching smartphones under its own brand, focusing on security, repairability, and unique features (their motto of “Human Mobile Devices” underscores user-centric design). They have publicly teased more enterprise devices and possibly tablets in development, as well as expansion of the HMD Services side (like MVNO network services in some countries). The leaks give us a clearer picture of specific models and specs likely to appear. For example, the information on Crest 2 and Bold came from a reliable Twitter leaker @smashx_60 who has a track record with HMD leaks gadgets.beebom.com gadgets.beebom.com. The Candy 5G leak similarly came from internal sources and hints at an imminent release (since it was in testing phase by mid-2025) notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net. We could see some of these devices announced as early as Fall 2025 or in early 2026 at events like CES or MWC.

In summary, HMD Global appears to be carving out a niche for itself with modular phones (Fusion series), repairable mid-rangers (Skyline, Crest), and specialty devices (rugged XR series, branded editions, ultra-budget Android Go phones). The rest of 2025 should see at least a few launches: Skyline 2 series for the mid-range, Candy 5G or Bold/Crest 2 for budget 5G needs, and possibly the XR22 rugged phone. For enthusiasts, it’s exciting to see a smaller company innovating in areas like modular design and user repairability. If you’re considering an HMD phone now (like the Fusion) but can wait a little, you might have even more choices soon – perhaps a Fusion 2 with improved specs, or a Skyline 2 GT if you desire higher performance within the HMD family.

Sources: This report compiles information from official HMD Global releases and spec sheets, as well as hands-on reviews by experts at NotebookCheck, FoneArena, Digit.in, and others. Notable references include the HMD Fusion X1 product page hmd.com hmd.com, NotebookCheck’s in-depth Fusion review notebookcheck.net notebookcheck.net, FoneArena’s Fusion 5G review fonearena.com fonearena.com, and various credible leak reports for upcoming models notebookcheck.net gadgets.beebom.com. These sources have been cited inline throughout the article for transparency and further reading.