Unveiling the Surprising Features of a Smartphone Priced Under $50

HMD has just launched the HMD Touch 4G, a compact phone that blends the simplicity of a feature phone with the modern features of a smartphone.

Essentially, this device is a revival of the Nokia Asha series. It is currently exclusively available in the Indian market.

The Touch 4G is an intriguing hybrid between a feature phone and a smartphone, retaining compactness and simplicity while adding modern conveniences like a touchscreen, video calling, and hotspot functionality.

Key Highlights

Compact, Retro Yet Modern Design

Measuring just 102.3 × 61.85 × 10.85 mm and weighing 100g, this phone is incredibly small and lightweight.

Its design evokes nostalgia for iconic Nokia models, replacing the T9 keypad with a 3.2-inch touchscreen featuring a 2.5D curved glass and a 320 x 240 pixel (QVGA) resolution. It runs on a Unisoc T127 chipset with 64MB RAM and 128MB internal storage, expandable up to 32GB via microSD.

The device features a 0.3MP front camera and a 2MP rear camera with LED flash. It boasts an IP52 rating for dust and light water resistance.

Notably, it supports contactless payments (NFC), a rare feature for feature phones. This allows users to perform basic smartphone tasks like chatting, light web browsing, and payments in a much more compact form factor.

Full-Touch “Feature Phone” Screen

This is the most distinctive feature of the phone. The full-touchscreen on a feature phone offers an experience akin to a budget smartphone.

Comprehensive Connectivity – On Par with Basic Smartphones

It supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi hotspot, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS/Beidou, FM Radio, USB-C, 3.5mm jack, and dual SIM. The device can also function as a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, meeting the needs for calls, internet, and network sharing.

HMD’s RTOS Touch Operating System

The minimalist interface runs smoothly and is user-friendly. Integrated Cloud Phone Service allows access to news, weather, games, and cloud-based chat without complex setup.

Exclusive Express Chat App

Enables quick messaging, voice calls, video calls, and recordings via physical buttons. The app is also available on Android and iOS, facilitating connections with friends.

Long-Lasting Battery – Up to 30 Hours of Continuous Use

The 1,950 mAh battery charges via USB-C, ideal for users needing a secondary phone, traveling, or basic multi-day use.

Ultra-Affordable Price

Priced at just 3,999 INR (approximately $50), it includes a charger and protective case. Available in Cyan and Dark Blue, the HMD Touch 4G targets general users, seniors, and Nokia enthusiasts.

Limitations

Limited internal storage and low RAM hinder heavy app usage or large file storage.

The non-Android OS restricts app availability. While users may desire popular apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, the device only supports internal apps like Express Chat, limiting interaction unless contacts use compatible devices.

The basic camera setup, especially the 0.3MP front camera, limits photo and video quality, unsuitable for high-quality or low-light photography.

The small screen with low QVGA resolution restricts web browsing and content consumption compared to standard smartphones, lacking a “premium” display experience.

In summary, this phone is ideal for users seeking simplicity, compactness, and minimal fuss, offering great value. However, it may not satisfy those expecting a powerful, versatile device or extensive app usage like a smartphone.