Meet HMD Fusion X1, a kid-friendly smartphone with safety features
What's the story
HMD Global, the Finland-based company behind Nokia-branded phones, has launched a new smartphone specifically for kids.
The HMD Fusion X1 was unveiled at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona and is a product of collaboration with child-safe technology firm, Xplora.
Priced between $250 and $300, this device is set to hit the market in May 2025.
Safety features
Prioritizing child safety and online security
The Fusion X1 smartphone comes with a unique OS focused on child safety and online security.
As HMD says, parents can control their kids' usage by blocking access during school or bedtime, restricting calls to approved contacts, and tracking when kids leave designated safe areas.
The device even lets parents manage social media and web browsing activities of their kids.
Device specifications
Fusion X1 boasts impressive features for kids
The Fusion X1 packs a host of features that would attract kids.
It features a 108MP main camera, 5,000mAh battery, face and fingerprint security options, and IP54-rated splash-proof design.
The device also packs a headphone jack and provides customization.
Following in the footsteps of last year's HMD Fusion, the X1 supports interchangeable "outfits" -- accessories that can be attached to customise the phone's appearance or extended battery life.
Parent concerns
Concerns over online safety and mental health
The launch of the Fusion X1 comes amid increasing concerns among parents regarding their children's online safety and mental health.
According to a survey conducted by HMD in July 2024, 75% of parents fear internet dangers, while 65% are worried about the effect of phones on mental health.
Over half of those surveyed wished they had delayed giving smartphones to their kids.
Project Wildflower
HMD's new project targets excessive scrolling
Along with the Fusion X1 launch, HMD also announced its new project with actress Drew Barrymore, "Project Wildflower." The initiative focuses on curbing excessive scrolling among users.
CEO Jean-Francois Baril said their Better Phone project worked with teens, parents, and experts to learn how smart devices could be integrated into families' lives.
He was excited to launch their first device built on these foundations - the HMD Fusion X1.