 "HMD, the electronics company behind Nokia, announced at MWC 2024 that they will conitnue with the brand Nokia, and refuted claims that they were shutting the brand down. HMD will also launch a Barbie-themed flip-style foldable phone soon, along with retro Nokia phones")
At the ongoing Mobile World Congress 2024 show in Barcelona, HMD Global, the company now making Nokia phones, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Mattel the owners of the renowned doll brand Barbie. The partnership aims to revive nostalgia with the launch of the Barbie Flip Phone, a retro-inspired device reminiscent of classic flip phones.
Ruth Henriquez of Mattel expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its representation of Mattel’s ongoing commitment to innovative design. The Barbie Flip Phone is poised to captivate enthusiasts of all ages, promising a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality, the company said.
Speculation had circulated earlier this year regarding the discontinuation of Nokia phones, fueled by the rebranding of the Nokia website to HMD. However, HMD Global has unequivocally refuted these rumours, assuring consumers of Nokia’s continued presence in the market.
In addition to the Barbie Flip Phone, HMD Global intends to reintroduce another iconic Nokia phone designs during the summer months. The company has also teased an array of new phone brands slated for release throughout 2024.
Despite a downturn in the mobile phone market for the past two years, HMD Global reported increased profits in 2023, attributing the success to strategic transformations such as enhanced operational efficiency and cost management.
Looking ahead, HMD Global is committed to enhancing repairability and simplifying screen repair processes for upcoming summer phone releases. Furthermore, the company is launching a smartphone innovation platform aimed at empowering developers and businesses. With open-source design files and software integration resources readily available, the initiative aims to democratize phone customization, catering to diverse user needs.