Celebrating 65 Years of Barbie with a Stylish Feature Phone
HMD Global has officially launched the HMD Barbie Phone, a vibrant pink feature flip phone designed in collaboration with Mattel, coinciding with Barbie’s 65th anniversary. Priced at £99 (approximately $131), the phone is available starting today, August 28, 2024, and is expected to appeal to both nostalgic adults and younger fans of the iconic doll.
HMD Barbie Phone a Retro Design
The HMD Barbie Phone features a retro design reminiscent of classic flip phones, equipped with a 2.8-inch main display and a 1.77-inch outer screen. It operates on the S30+ or KaiOS and includes a 0.3MP camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a 1,450 mAh battery that supports up to nine hours of talk time. The device is lightweight, weighing just 123 grams, and includes a unique Barbie-themed user interface with special wallpapers and app icons.
In addition to its playful aesthetics, the phone incorporates features aimed at promoting digital wellbeing, such as “Digital balance tips” and “BarbieMeditation.” The keypad is adorned with hidden designs that glow in the dark, adding to the phone’s charm. HMD Global anticipates strong sales, estimating that over 400,000 units could be sold in the UK alone, where it will be available through retailers like Vodafone and Argos.
This launch marks HMD’s strategic move to diversify its product offerings beyond Nokia-branded devices, showcasing its partnership with Mattel as the first of many collaborations to come. The HMD Barbie Phone not only serves as a functional communication device but also as a collectible item for fans of the beloved franchise, blending nostalgia with modern technology.
What are the unique features of the HMD Barbie Phone
The HMD Barbie Phone is a feature-rich flip phone that combines nostalgic design with modern functionality. Here are its unique features:
Design and Aesthetics
- Color and Theme: The phone is designed in a vibrant pink color, reflecting Barbie’s iconic style. It includes interchangeable rear covers that allow users to customize their device.
- Accessories: The package comes with a pink USB-C charging cable, a beaded phone strap, attachable charms, and Barbie stickers for personalization.
Display and Build
- Dual Screens: It features a 2.8-inch main display and a 1.77-inch outer screen for notifications.
- Lightweight: The phone weighs only 123 grams, making it portable and easy to handle.
Functionality
- Operating System: The device runs on the S30+ operating system in most markets, while the U.S. version will utilize KaiOS.
- Camera: Equipped with a 0.3MP camera, it includes a torch for low-light photography, catering to the retro aesthetic that appeals to Gen Z users.
- Battery Life: It has a 1,450 mAh removable battery, providing up to nine hours of talk time.
Unique Software Features
- Custom User Interface: The phone features a bespoke UI with Barbie-themed wallpapers, icons, and ringtones, including soothing sounds for alarms.
- Digital Wellbeing: It offers features like “Digital balance tips,” a “BarbieMeditation” app, and self-care reminders to promote a healthier relationship with technology.
- Hidden Easter Eggs: Users can discover fun surprises by entering specific codes, such as spelling out “BARBIE” to unlock special features.
Entertainment
- Games: The phone includes a Barbie-themed version of the classic Snake game, providing a nostalgic gaming experience.
- Audio Features: It supports FM radio and includes an MP3 player for music enjoyment.
Overall, the HMD Barbie Phone is designed not only as a functional device but also as a stylish accessory that celebrates the legacy of Barbie while promoting a simpler, more focused way of communication.