New Delhi, India — October 2025: HMD Global, the Finnish company best known for reviving Nokia-branded phones, has unveiled a brand-new device designed to reshape the entry-level mobile market. Dubbed the HMD Touch 4G, this compact handset aims to deliver essential smartphone-like features without the complexity or cost of a full-fledged smartphone. With its touch display, lightweight software, and aggressive price tag of ₹3,999, the device is squarely targeted at users seeking a simple, reliable, and connected experience — particularly in emerging markets like India.
A Bold Attempt at Reinventing the “Smart Feature Phone”
For years, HMD Global has built its reputation on producing reliable feature phones and budget smartphones. The new Touch 4G takes that philosophy one step further by positioning itself as a “smart feature phone” — a device that offers core connectivity and app support but strips away the bloat, heavy hardware demands, and high price tags of traditional smartphones.
Unlike most feature phones, the Touch 4G drops the physical keypad entirely, opting for a 3.2-inch capacitive touchscreen — a rarity in this segment. This design choice makes navigation more intuitive and closer to what smartphone users expect, while still keeping the overall experience straightforward.
Core Specifications: Light, Simple, and Efficient
The HMD Touch 4G’s spec sheet is intentionally minimalistic, but what it offers is designed to cover the basics without overcomplicating the user experience.
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- 📱 Display: 3.2-inch QVGA capacitive touchscreen
- ⚙️ Processor: Unisoc T127 chipset
- 💾 Memory: 64MB RAM, 128MB internal storage (expandable via microSD)
- 📸 Cameras: 2MP rear camera, 0.3MP front camera
- 🔋 Battery: 1950 mAh, up to 30 hours standby
- 📶 Connectivity: Dual SIM, 4G LTE, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS
- 🧭 Other Features: USB-C charging, FM radio, MP3 player, IP52 splash resistance
While the numbers might look modest compared to modern smartphones, that’s by design. The Touch 4G isn’t trying to compete with mid-range Android devices; it’s designed to serve users who want dependable connectivity and basic smart features at an ultra-low cost.
Lightweight Software With Practical Features
One of the most interesting aspects of the HMD Touch 4G is its operating system. Instead of Android, it runs on a lightweight proprietary OS optimized for low-power hardware. The interface is intentionally simplified, focusing on core functions like messaging, calling, and basic apps.
A standout addition is Express Chat, HMD’s built-in messaging and video calling platform. This pre-installed service lets users connect with friends and family without needing third-party apps — a crucial advantage in regions where app store downloads or large updates may be a barrier.
There’s also support for popular web-based services, basic browser functionality, and media playback. While it won’t run heavy apps like Instagram or YouTube natively, the Touch 4G does enough to keep users connected and entertained.
Designed for the Realities of Emerging Markets
HMD Global’s strategy with the Touch 4G is clear: it’s designed primarily for first-time internet users, rural communities, and budget-conscious consumers. In markets like India, where smartphone penetration continues to rise but millions still rely on feature phones, the Touch 4G offers a compelling middle ground.
Its ₹3,999 price tag places it within reach of users upgrading from 2G or 3G devices, while features like dual SIM support, long battery life, and a sturdy design cater to practical everyday needs. The IP52 rating also ensures resistance against dust and minor splashes — an underrated but valuable feature in rugged environments.
Competitive Positioning: A Niche but Growing Category
The concept of a “smart feature phone” is not entirely new, but few companies have committed to it with the same focus as HMD. Devices like Reliance Jio’s JioPhone have shown that there’s significant demand in this segment, particularly among older users, secondary phone buyers, and those transitioning from basic mobile phones.
Where the HMD Touch 4G differentiates itself is in design and usability. Its touchscreen interface makes it feel more modern than keypad-based competitors, and features like USB-C charging and Bluetooth 5.0 add small but meaningful quality-of-life improvements. However, its limited RAM and low-resolution cameras will likely remain sticking points for users expecting more smartphone-like performance.
Price, Availability, and Market Rollout
The HMD Touch 4G is now available in India through HMD’s official online store and will roll out to major e-commerce platforms and offline retail partners later this month. At ₹3,999, it undercuts many basic Android devices while offering more modern functionality than traditional feature phones.
HMD has hinted that this device is the first in a new category of “hybrid phones,” suggesting that more models could follow, potentially with larger screens, more storage, or deeper app support.
Final Thoughts: A Clever Bridge Device With Real Potential
The HMD Touch 4G isn’t going to replace anyone’s primary smartphone — and that’s not its mission. Instead, it serves as a crucial stepping stone for millions of users who are just entering the digital ecosystem or need a reliable, no-fuss secondary device.
Its mix of affordability, simplicity, and modern features makes it an attractive option in a niche but rapidly growing market segment. More importantly, it demonstrates HMD Global’s willingness to innovate beyond traditional categories — a strategy that could help it stay relevant as it gradually transitions away from the Nokia brand in the coming years.
For users who want the essentials — calls, messaging, light browsing, and dependable battery life — without the cost or complexity of a smartphone, the HMD Touch 4G is one of the most compelling options in its price range.
