At the ongoing Mobile World Congress 2024 show in Barcelona, HMD Global, the company now making Nokia phones, announced a groundbreaking collaboration with Mattel, the owners of the renowned doll brand Barbie. The partnership aims to revive nostalgia with the launch of the Barbie Flip Phone, a retro-inspired device reminiscent of classic flip phones.
Ruth Henriquez of Mattel expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing its representation of Mattel’s ongoing commitment to innovative design. The company said the Barbie Flip Phone is poised to captivate enthusiasts of all ages, promising a blend of nostalgia and modern functionality.
Speculation had circulated earlier this year regarding the discontinuation of Nokia phones, fueled by the rebranding of the Nokia website to HMD. However, HMD Global has unequivocally refuted these rumors, assuring consumers of Nokia’s continued presence in the market.
In addition to the Barbie Flip Phone, HMD Global intends to reintroduce another iconic Nokia phone design during the summer months. The company has also teased various new phone brands slated for release throughout 2024.
Despite a downturn in the mobile phone market for the past two years, HMD Global reported increased profits in 2023, attributing the success to strategic transformations such as enhanced operational efficiency and cost management.
Looking ahead, HMD Global is committed to enhancing repairability and simplifying screen repair processes for upcoming summer phone releases. Furthermore, the company is launching a smartphone innovation platform to empower developers and businesses. With open-source design files and software integration resources readily available, the initiative seeks to democratize phone customization, catering to diverse user needs.
