HMD Launches Pulse Series: Self-Repair Kits and High Battery Capacity

HMD, the company that produces Nokia-branded phones, has launched its own line of smartphones under the Pulse series. The HMD Pulse, Pulse+, and Pulse Pro cater to budget-conscious users who value repairability.

Focus on Self-Repair:

A key feature of the Pulse series is its emphasis on user-friendliness when it comes to repairs. HMD has partnered with iFixit to offer self-repair kits, allowing users to replace components like the battery or screen themselves. This empowers users to potentially save money on repairs and extend the lifespan of their phones.

Large Battery and Stock Android Experience:

All three Pulse phones boast a generous 5000mAh battery, promising long-lasting power on a single charge. They also run a clean, stock version of Android 14, with HMD guaranteeing two years of OS updates and three years of security patches. This ensures users receive the latest software and security features.

HMD Pulse and Pulse+ Specifications:

HMD Pulse and Pulse+
HMD Pulse (Left) and HMD Pulse+ (Right)
The HMD Pulse and Pulse+ share many similarities. They sport a 6.65-inch HD+ IPS display with a 90Hz refresh rate for a smooth user experience. The power comes from a UNISOC T606 chipset paired with up to 6GB of RAM and 256GB of storage (expandable via microSD). The rear camera system on the Pulse features a 13MP primary sensor, while the Pulse+ steps it up to a 50MP main camera. Both phones come with an 8MP front-facing camera.

HMD Pulse Pro Specifications:

HMD Pulse Pro
HMD Pulse Pro Design and Display
The HMD Pulse Pro has a slightly smaller 6.56-inch HD+ display with similar specs to its siblings. It retains the UNISOC T606 chipset but only offers one storage configuration: 6GB RAM and 128GB storage (expandable via microSD). Like the Pulse+, the Pro boasts a 50MP main rear camera, but it upgrades the front-facing camera to a 50MP sensor for sharper selfies. The Pro model also boasts a faster 20W fast-charging capability compared to the 10W charging on the Pulse and Pulse+.

Availability and Pricing:

The HMD Pulse starts at €140 (approx Rs 12,500) for the 4GB/64GB model. The HMD Pulse+ starts at €159 (approx Rs 14,200) for the base model. The HMD Pulse Pro costs €180 (approx Rs 16,100) for the 6GB/128GB version. Currently, only the Pulse and Pulse+ are available for purchase on the HMD website. Information on the Pro version's availability remains undisclosed.

Overall, the HMD Pulse series offers a compelling proposition for budget-minded users seeking a repairable phone with a large battery and a clean Android experience.