"Finnish Company HMD" confirmed that it Nokia branded smartphones will be released in the first half of next year. The press release this week confirmed one small detail that many expected - the handsets will be running Android.
One of the most hotly anticipated names in the mobile world is set to return next year. The Nokia name will return to the smartphone in the first half of 2017, and will be using "Google's Android" operating system.-as confirmed by HMD.
"Today marks a happy and important day for HMD. Nokia has been one of the most iconic and recognizable phone brands globally for decades. The excitement of re-introducing this much-loved, well-known and trusted brand to smartphone consumers is a responsibility and an ambition that everyone at HMD shares," as stated by CEO Arto Nummela.
HMD global was set up in May 2017 next year and has licensed the Nokia brand from the eponymous Finnish behemoth. It expects to create "a full range of Nokia branded smartphones, tablets, and feature phones for the next decade." As well as licensing the Nokia name for smartphones, it obtained the rights to use the "Nokia" brand on feature phones and other design elements.
There is a lot of love for the Nokia name, it is already well known brand when it comes to cellphones and although the licensing structure is a few more steps than most will realize. The Nokia name on a smartphone will catch consumers' eyes, no doubt allowing the handset the grace and favor of being considered alongside handsets from the likes of "Samsung and Apple."
Using Android will determine that HMD can immediately tap into the "Application Economy" and have compatibility with countless online services. The bigger question is how well these new handsets will stand out from sea of Android handsets.
With HMD signed up to appear at "Mobile World Congress" in February 2017, many will be hoping to get their first look at the new handsets at the Barcelona event.
