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HDM Just Launched Four Dumb Phones with a Nokia Badge and an AI Button

HMD’s retro handsets use Sikey AI for alarms, reminders and simple questions, but online critics call the new button unnecessary.

  • HMD launched four new Nokia-branded feature phones, each featuring a dedicated AI button on the front of the device.
  • These new Nokia-branded phones offer legacy features from past eras, including a 3.5 mm headphone jack and microSD card support, with most models providing an FM radio.
  • Powered by Sikey, the AI helps users set alarms, open the camera, and add reminders, while the Xpress Chat platform enables video calls and voice messages.
  • Reaction on Reddit to the AI button has been critical, with posters describing the feature as "dumb", "out of touch", and "useless"."
  • HMD has not disclosed pricing or availability details for the new handsets, and the included AI assistant is only free for 180 days.
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Nokia Adds AI Assistant To New Generation Of Feature Phones – channelnews

HMD Global has refreshed its Nokia feature phone range, bringing artificial intelligence capabilities to a series of traditional handsets that continue to focus on simplicity, long battery life and essential communication. The new lineup includes the Nokia 200 4G, Nokia 210 4G, Nokia 215 4G Second Edition and Nokia 235 4G Second Edition. Despite retaining the classic keypad design, each model now features a dedicated AI button positioned on the directional pad, providing quick access to an on-device virtual assistant. Powered by Sikey AI, the assistant allows users to ask simple questions and perform selected phone functions using voice commands. HMD says the service will be available at no cost for the first 180 days, after which a paid subscription will be required. Interestingly, users will need a compatible smartphone to purchase or manage the subscription. The latest Nokia models also introduce Xpress Chat video calling, supported by integrated VGA cameras across the range. The Nokia 210 4G and Nokia 235 4G also include rear-facing cameras, with the 235 4G featuring a 2-megapixel sensor for basic photography. Display sizes vary across the range. The Nokia 210 4G and Nokia 215 4G Second Edition feature 2.4-inch QVGA screens, while the Nokia 200 4G and Nokia 235 4G Second Edition receive larger 2.8-inch IPS displays with the same resolution. All four phones run the S30+ operating system and are powered by 1,450mAh batteries, continuing the feature phone tradition of extended battery life between charges. Standard features include Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C charging, a 3.5mm headphone jack and built-in FM radio. The launch reflects HMD’s continued commitment to feature phones at a time when many manufacturers are concentrating exclusively on smartphones. By adding AI-powered assistance while retaining familiar hardware and straightforward operation, the company is aiming to modernise basic mobile phones without abandoning the simplicity that continues to appeal to many users. Australian pricing and availability have not yet been announced.

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Gulf Times broke the news in Doha, Qatar on Sunday, July 5, 2026.
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