HMD has introduced its latest smartphones, the HMD Crest and HMD Crest Max, in India. These models, available exclusively on Amazon Specials, aim to set a new standard in smartphone photography with their advanced camera systems and sleek design. This marks HMD's first venture into the Indian market under its own brand, having previously made Nokia-branded feature phones in India.
The HMD Crest features a 50-megapixel selfie camera and a 50-megapixel dual AI rear camera. In contrast, the HMD Crest Max boasts a 64-megapixel main camera, a 5-megapixel ultrawide lens, a 2-megapixel macro lens, and a 50-megapixel selfie camera. Both models include features like slow-motion and AI Super Portrait mode, enhancing the user experience.
"With the launch of HMD Crest and HMD Crest Max, we're not just introducing our first smartphone in India – we're ushering in a new era of mobile technology that puts creativity, sustainability, and user experience at the forefront," said Ravi Kunwar, VP, India & APAC, HMD.
Key features of these smartphones include:
Both models run on Android 14 and include the new Repairability 1.0 feature, simplifying the replacement of components like the back panel, battery, display, or charging port, extending the devices' lifespan and reducing e-waste. Notably, if users encounter issues while repairing their phones, the warranty will not be voided, and service centres will be available to assist.
The Unisoc Tanggula T760 processor, a mid-range SoC for Android-based smartphones and tablets, integrates an octa-core CPU with two clusters. It includes four ARM Cortex-A76 cores clocked at up to 2 GHz and four ARM Cortex-A55 cores clocked at up to 2 GHz for efficiency. The integrated 5G modem enhances connectivity, and the processor supports LPDDR4/4X memory with up to 2133 MHz. The integrated ISP supports two main cameras and two subsidiary cameras (up to 108 megapixels). Additionally, the ARM Mali-G57 MC4 graphics card operates at up to 780 MHz. The T760 is manufactured using a modern 6nm process, ensuring efficiency and performance. Both phones look identical save for the fact one has a shimmeru glossy finish while the other one has a matte finish.
Ranjit Babu, Director, Wireless and Home Entertainment, Amazon India, stated, "We are excited to welcome HMD, Human Mobile Devices on Amazon.in, India's most trusted smartphone buying destination. HMD is entering the Indian market with high-quality, feature-packed 5G devices with design and camera being the key propositions."
The HMD Crest will be available in Midnight Blue, Royal Pink, and Lush Lilac, while the HMD Crest Max will come in Deep Purple, Royal Pink, and Aqua Green. The introductory prices are Rs 12,999 for the HMD Crest and Rs 14,999 for the HMD Crest Max, with sales starting during the Great Freedom Sale on Amazon Specials.
While these smartphones stand out for their stylish design and unique repairability feature, there are concerns about their longevity. The devices are powered by the Unisoc Tanggula T760 chipset, a two-year-old processor from a Chinese semiconductor manufacturer, raising potential security concerns. Additionally, HMD’s promise of just two years of updates may not satisfy all users. These devices will compete with the likes of the Xiaomi Redmi 13 5G and CMF Phone 1, which offer superior specifications, brand recognition, and software support.
