HMD Global, the company responsible for modern Nokia phones, has launched the HMD Aura², a budget-friendly device that prioritises longevity and repairability over flashy specs. This release is not just another entry in the budget phone market—it’s a continuation of a legacy that dates back to the very origins of mobile phones.
Before smartphones became an extension of our daily lives, Nokia was one of the pioneers of mobile technology. In 1987, the company released the Mobira Cityman 900, one of the world’s first truly portable mobile phones. This device, often associated with business executives in the late ‘80s, symbolised the start of mobile communication as we know it.
Fast forward to the early 2000s, and Nokia dominated the industry with indestructible handsets like the Nokia 3310, setting standards for durability and reliability. While today’s mobile landscape is ruled by glass-fronted, high-tech smartphones, HMD Global has carried Nokia’s ethos of creating long-lasting, user-friendly devices into the modern era. The Aura² is a direct reflection of that mindset—proving that affordability doesn’t have to mean disposable.
The Aura² is designed for users who need a no-nonsense, reliable device that can handle daily tasks without unnecessary complications. Powered by the UNISOC SC9863A processor, paired with 4GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it is built for messaging, social media, and streaming. Running on Android 14 (Go edition), the lightweight software ensures smoother performance on lower-end hardware, avoiding the slowdowns that plague many budget devices.
Its 6.52-inch HD display offers a resolution of 576 x 1280 pixels, with 460 nits peak brightness, making it visible even in bright outdoor conditions. The 60Hz refresh rate may not be the smoothest by today’s standards, but HMD’s clean, bloat-free UI ensures that the experience remains fluid.
While the smartphone industry has increasingly moved toward sealed, non-repairable devices, the Aura² embraces a DIY repair culture. Just like old Nokia phones that could be opened up, have their batteries swapped, or even survive a drop down the stairs, HMD Global has designed the Aura² with fixability in mind.
Users can replace a broken screen, battery, or other parts themselves with the help of iFixit, an online platform that provides spare parts and repair guides. This is a major step toward sustainability—reducing electronic waste while saving users from costly professional repairs.
One of the biggest frustrations with modern smartphones is the removal of key features that users still find practical. HMD Global avoids that mistake by keeping the 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to plug in wired earphones without needing adapters or expensive Bluetooth alternatives.
On the camera front, the 13MP rear camera and 5MP front camera keep things simple yet effective. While it won’t compete with high-end flagship cameras, the sample images shared by HMD Global suggest that the Aura² produces respectable shots for a phone in this price range.
The HMD Aura² is available in Shadow Black and Electric Purple, giving users a choice between a sleek or vibrant aesthetic. Priced at 169 Australian dollars (~$106 or Rs 9,225), it is positioned as an ultra-budget option that prioritises durability and function over flashy gimmicks. The device will be available from March 13, offering a cost-effective alternative for those who want a simple yet reliable smartphone.
With smartphone companies pushing expensive, short-lifespan devices, HMD Global is reviving Nokia’s original mission—creating phones that last. The Aura² challenges the idea that budget phones need to be disposable, providing an affordable solution that can stand the test of time.
From the brick-like indestructibility of the Nokia 3310 to a smartphone that users can repair themselves, HMD Global is proving that the world’s first mobile phone maker hasn’t lost its ability to innovate. The Aura² may not be a flagship powerhouse, but it carries the DNA of a brand that revolutionised mobile communication.
