HMD Global, the Finnish manufacturer behind Nokia phones, has taken a bold leap into the Indian smartphone market with the launch of its latest offerings, the HMD Crest and HMD Crest Max 5G. These budget-friendly devices are designed to capture the hearts of Indian consumers with their impressive features, sleek aesthetics, and a focus on self-repairability. Coming in at just Rs. 12,999 for the HMD Crest and Rs. 14,999 for the Crest Max 5G, these phones challenge the existing players in the competitive budget segment. But are they just another drop in the ocean of Android phones, or do these new devices bring something unique to the table? Let’s dive into the details to find out.
HMD Crest, Crest Max 5G: Price and Availability
The HMD Crest and HMD Crest Max 5G are priced competitively, with the Crest starting at Rs. 12,999 and the Crest Max 5G at Rs. 14,999. These are, however, special introductory prices, and it remains unclear how long this offer will last. Both devices come in a variety of eye-catching color options: the HMD Crest boasts Midnight Blue, Lush Lilac, and Royal Pink, while the HMD Crest Max 5G is available in Aqua Green, Deep Purple, and Royal Pink. They will be available for purchase on Amazon during the upcoming Great Freedom Sale in August, marking the beginning of their journey in the Indian market.
HMD Crest, Crest Max 5G: Specifications and Features
Both the HMD Crest and Crest Max 5G share several key specifications, making them a compelling offering in the budget segment. Here’s a closer look:
Display:
- Both devices showcase a 6.67-inch full-HD+ OLED display, promising vibrant visuals and deep blacks. This is a significant step up from the LCD panels often found in this price range.
Processor:
- Under the hood, they are powered by the Unisoc T760 5G chip, built on a 6nm manufacturing process, offering efficient performance and blazing fast 5G connectivity.
Memory and Storage:
- The HMD Crest comes equipped with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of storage, while the Crest Max 5G bumps it up to 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Both devices feature virtual RAM, offering an extra 6GB and 8GB, respectively, to enhance multitasking prowess.
Operating System:
- The devices run on the latest Android 14, guaranteeing a smooth and modern user experience along with timely security updates.
Camera:
- HMD Crest: The HMD Crest features a dual rear camera setup, led by a 50-megapixel primary sensor, coupled with an AI-driven lens to capture stunning shots.
- HMD Crest Max 5G: The Crest Max 5G boasts a triple rear camera unit, featuring a 64-megapixel primary camera, a 5-megapixel ultra-wide lens for wider perspectives, and a 2-megapixel macro lens for close-up shots. Both devices sport a 50-megapixel front camera for high-resolution selfies.
Battery:
- Both phones come equipped with a 5,000mAh battery for extended usage and 33W charging support for quick power-ups. The company claims the battery can handle 800 charging cycles, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Self-Repair Features:
- The new HMD Crest phones offer a groundbreaking feature: Repairability 1.0. This allows users to easily replace components like the back panel, battery, charging port, and display themselves, reducing reliance on repair shops and extending the phone’s lifespan.
A Deeper Look at the HMD Crest & Crest Max 5G
HMD Crest:
The HMD Crest, with its sleek design and impressive camera capabilities, is aimed towards users who prioritize an affordable phone with quality features. The dual camera setup with a 50-megapixel sensor is more than capable for everyday photography needs, and the long-lasting battery ensures you can stay connected without worrying about frequent charging.
HMD Crest Max 5G:
The HMD Crest Max 5G takes things a step further with its triple camera system, providing more versatility for capturing different kinds of content. The increased RAM and storage offer added performance and storage space for users who demand more from their smartphones. The inclusion of virtual RAM is a welcome addition to boost multitasking capabilities, ensuring smooth operation even when running multiple apps.
What Sets the HMD Crest and Crest Max 5G Apart
- Self-Repair Feature: This is a game changer for budget-conscious consumers. The ability to replace components easily empowers users to fix their phones at home, extending their lifespan and reducing repair costs. This approach fosters sustainable practices and promotes device longevity.
- Affordable Price Point: The competitive pricing makes these devices highly appealing to consumers looking for high-performance phones at an affordable price.
- Unisoc T760 5G Chipset: The inclusion of the Unisoc T760 5G chipset, offering impressive performance and blazing fast connectivity, surpasses expectations at this price point.
- OLED Display: Unlike many other phones in the segment that rely on LCD displays, the OLED display delivers a richer visual experience, showcasing vibrant colors and deep blacks.
Conclusion: A New Era for HMD in India
The launch of the HMD Crest and Crest Max 5G marks a significant move by HMD Global into the Indian smartphone market. Their compelling mix of features, attractive pricing, and unique approach to repairability has the potential to disrupt the crowded budget segment. These devices cater to the needs of tech-savvy consumers who are looking for a powerful and affordable phone without compromising on quality.
While time will tell how these devices fare against established players, their innovative features and focus on user empowerment set them apart. The self-repair feature, especially, is a move that resonates with consumers concerned about sustainability and cost savings. If HMD Global can continue to offer innovative features at competitive prices, they have a real shot at carving out a niche for themselves in the Indian smartphone market.
