Human Mobile Devices recently announced the launch of a Barbie-style folding phone, developed through a collaboration with Mattel. The device, named HMD Barbie Phone, is set to hit the market on August 28, 2024.
This new phone is designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia and bring a touch of humor to the user's daily life. It also encourages users to take a break from the distractions of the internet and smartphones. With its vintage appearance, clamshell design, absence of a front camera, built-in mirror, and interchangeable covers, the HMD Barbie Phone aims to transport users back to a time when cell phones were primarily used for calls and texts. This retro dumbphone offers an escape from social networking, making it an ideal choice for reducing excessive screen time.
The handset boasts a 2.8-inch main display (320×240 pixels) and a 1.77-inch external panel display (160×120 pixels). It is equipped with a Unisoc T107 processor, 64 MB of RAM, and up to 128 MB of storage, expandable via a 32 GB microSD card. Additionally, it features a 1,450 mAh battery, a VGA camera (0.3 MP), Bluetooth 5.0 wireless module, USB Type-C connector, and a 3.5 mm jack for traditional wired headphones.
While the phone will run on the S30+ operating system in most markets, the US version will utilize the KaiOS operating system. Moreover, HMD has incorporated Barbie-themed customizations into the phone's user interface, including unique icons, wallpapers, and ringtones. Users can also benefit from digital well-being tips, a dedicated Barbie Meditation app, and self-care reminders.
The HMD Barbie Phone will be priced at $129, and it will be available in most parts of the world.