HMD Touch 4G hybrid feature phone with a touchscreen launched in India
HMD has officially launched the HMD Touch 4G in India, priced at Rs 4,999, but currently available for Rs 3,999. The company describes it as “India’s first-ever hybrid phone,” combining the simplicity and affordability of a feature phone with select smartphone capabilities. This approach targets entry-level users seeking a device that is easy to use but also offers connectivity and cloud-based features.
The HMD Touch 4G retains a nostalgic design reminiscent of the Nokia Lumia series, with sharp flat edges, thick front bezels, and a compact form factor. It is available in Cyan and Dark Blue. The device weighs 100g and measures 61.85 mm wide and 10.85 mm thick, making it tiny and pocket-friendly. It somehow even looks like the iPod Nano.
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The 4G phone features a 3.2-inch QVGA touchscreen with 2.5D cover glass. This is a very tiny screen compared to smartphones, but it might not seem like a big change if you’re switching from a feature phone. The HMD Touch 4G also comes pre-loaded with Cloud Phone Service and Express Chat app. The Cloud Phone Service brings entertainment, news, games, and other information to the device through cloud-hosted browser shortcuts, to help bridge the gap between feature phone simplicity and smartphone convenience. The Express Chat app lets you text and video call other Express Chat users for free. The app is available on Android and iOS, supporting both one-on-one and group chats.
The camera setup on the HMD Touch 4G includes a 2MP rear camera with LED flash and a 0.3MP front camera, sufficient for basic photography and video calls. Powered by the Unisoc T127 processor, with 64MB RAM and 128MB internal storage, the Touch 4G runs on RTOS Touch, a lightweight operating system. The 1,950mAh battery supports up to 30 hours of usage, with USB Type-C charging for faster and easier refueling. A quick call button is also included for emergency contacts and voice message recording.
The Touch 4G supports dual Nano SIMs (2G/3G/4G LTE Cat 4), WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, and Beidou location services. It includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB Type-C port, and FM radio (wireless and wired). The device also supports a microSD card of up to 32GB for expanded storage.
The phone carries an IP52 rating, offering protection against dust and light splashes. Despite its compact size and entry-level specs, HMD has integrated features that address the practical needs of Indian users, including long battery life, basic internet connectivity, and essential multimedia functions.
Who should consider it?
The HMD Touch 4G is aimed at budget-conscious users who want a simple and reliable device for calling, messaging, and light app usage. Its hybrid features may also appeal to users transitioning from feature phones to smartphones, or those who value connectivity without the complexity of a full-fledged smartphone. With its launch at just under Rs 5,000, the HMD Touch 4G positions itself as a quirky, practical, and affordable option in India’s entry-level market, offering a unique blend of nostalgia and functionality.
