Nokia phones have a strong reputation and have gained new popularity through internet memes. HMD, the current licensee of the Nokia name, is set to expand its lineup by introducing original HMD devices and phones as part of a new partnership. There are speculations about the potential decline of the Nokia brand, as HMD intends to launch its flagship product line and as the existing license agreements are set to expire in less than two years. Nokia phones have proven their durability and reliability over time, winning favor not just among the public but also in practical use. After fading from the phone industry, the brand was rejuvenated in the era of internet meme culture. On the business side, the license for the Nokia name and mobile phones was initially sold to Microsoft in 2014 before being acquired by HMD Global in 2016. Despite the initial entry of refurbished phones into the US, this is expected to change in the future. At the end of January, HMD issued a brief statement reiterating its previous messages (“We make Nokia phones”) but also hinting at more to come. The release confirmed that HMD will continue producing Nokia phones and is planning to offer more, including original HMD devices and phones from new partnerships. It also assured ongoing support for current Nokia phones, tablets, and accessories through the company’s website.
Related Leak reveals the first HMD-branded phone from the manufacturer Nokia Model number of two unnamed phones leaked The release, however, does not address the apparent uncertainty about the discontinuation of Nokia phones. In September 2023, HMD Global unveiled a new brand identity and joined forces with Nokia to introduce independent phones. With HMD’s license agreement with Nokia due to expire in 2026, which is less than two years away, rumors about the release of two smartphones under the HMD brand are circulating. These phones, expected to be in the low to mid-range category, are likely to be available in the US. All indications point to the possibility of the Nokia brand fading away, which is regrettable. Lars Silberbauer, CMO of Nokia Phones and HMD, conveyed this sentiment on LinkedIn, stating, “We are transitioning from a licensee to a multi-brand company with our HMD brand, combined with multiple licenses and a major partnership that we plan to unveil at MWC later this month.” Could one of these “licensing agreements” be with Nokia? One can only hope. Over 20 years ago, the Nokia N-Gage became the first mainstream gaming phone. While ahead of its time, it has been commended over the years for its innovative approach. Nokia is not the only phone brand to experience a gradual and difficult decline, nor the only one to face multiple declines. Attempts to revive the beloved BlackBerry line have faced repeated setbacks, with the most recent noteworthy success being the well-received film adaptation of the brand’s namesake. It’s entertaining and very Canadian.
