More than ten years ago, Dutch designer Dave Hakkens introduced the concept of Phonebloks, inspired by Lego blocks to create a modular smartphone that could reduce electronic waste by allowing users to swap individual components as needed.
While Phonebloks never materialized, Google took up the idea with Project Ara, which sparked the development of the FairPhone. Despite initial excitement, Project Ara ultimately met its demise in the Google Graveyard. Now, HMD, the company behind the former Nokia brand, is reviving the modular phone concept with HMD Fusion.
Priced at $299, HMD Fusion offers the concept of Smart Outfits, allowing users to customize their phone with accessories like wireless charging, a ring light, or protective cases. HMD promotes endless possibilities, but past experiences with similar concepts like Moto Mods recommend a cautious approach.
The phone features six metallic pins on the naked shell, serving as connection points for the Smart Outfits. HMD plans to release these customizable blocks later this year, but the real innovation lies in the company’s open-source platform for software integration and a hardware kit for further customization.
The available Outfits include the Flash Outfit with a ring light and the Rugged Outfit providing IP68 protection. Users can leverage 3D printing and software APIs to create unique enhancements for their HMD Fusion.
The HMD Fusion emphasizes “Gen 2 repairability,” supporting DIY repairs with an iFixit kit and a screw-based access system for easier screen and battery replacements. The phone boasts a 108-megapixel rear camera, a 50-megapixel selfie camera, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 processor.
Additional features of the HMD Fusion include 6GB of RAM, 128GB onboard storage (expandable up to 1TB with a microSD card), a 6.5-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate, a 5,000mAh battery with fast charging support, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and Android 14 out of the box.
The Transparent Casual Outfit model of the HMD Fusion is priced at $299 and will be available in the fourth quarter, with Smart Outfits launching later. For those interested in customization, the CMF Phone 1 offers the ability to design a unique rear shell with personalized features.
