HMD Global and Mattel Launch Barbie-Themed Flip Phone to Combat SmartphoneAddiction

Author : christopher s
Publish Date : August 28, 2024
Categories : Mobiles
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HMD Global Phone

HMD Global has teamed up with Mattel to launch the Barbie Phone, a retro flip phone designed for those looking to reduce screen time. With a unique Barbie-inspired design, this device aims to promote digital wellbeing.

The Barbie hmd global phone stands out with its striking pink color and a front screen that doubles as a mirror, perfect for quick touch-ups. It comes with two interchangeable back covers, inspired by classic Barbie designs: vibrant swirls from the 1992 Totally Hair Barbie doll and a vintage shooting heart motif. Users can further personalize their phone with stick-on crystals and retro-themed Barbie stickers featuring flowers, flamingos, and rainbows.

Adding to its charm, the phone includes a pastel beaded strap with charms like mini 1959 sunglasses and a Malibu roller skate, packaged in a special Barbie and HMD-branded jewellery box.

The device offers a unique Barbie-themed user interface, complete with wallpapers, app icons, and features that encourage digital balance. It provides access to digital wellbeing tips, meditation guides, and self-care reminders, all in line with the Barbie aesthetic. Additional fun elements include Barbie-inspired ringtones and hidden Easter eggs like special wallpapers and greetings from Ken, which can be unlocked using specific codes.

The Barbie hmd global phone is priced at £99 (around ₹11,008) in the UK and €129 (around ₹12,085) in Europe, with availability starting today, August 28. In the US, it will be available from October 1 for $129 (around ₹10,825), with pre-orders beginning on September 23. Availability in India has not yet been announced.

The phone features a 2.8-inch QVGA internal screen and a 1.77-inch external display. Powered by the Unisoc T107 processor, it includes 64MB of RAM and 128MB of internal storage, expandable up to 32GB via a microSD card. The device operates on the S30+ operating system, supports dual SIM, and includes a VGA rear camera with LED flash.

Additional features include a 3.5mm headphone jack, an MP3 player, and FM radio with both wired and wireless options. Connectivity is supported via Bluetooth 5.0 and a USB Type-C port. The phone supports GSM/GPRS 900/1800, WCDMA, and LTE Cat1 networks. Weighing 123.5 grams and measuring 108.4 x 55.1 x 18.9mm, it is powered by a removable 1450mAh battery, providing up to 9 hours of talk time.