KIANEWS 
HMD Global today unveiled its latest smartphone, the HMD Fusion, an affordable device whose idea is to change functions and style with a shell. This is how the HMD Fusion will initially be distributed, but additional devices will be available later this year.
HMD presents the concepts of the Better Phone Project
17. 10. 2024 Thursday / By: Robert Denes / Reviews / Exact time: BST / Print this page
HMD Global recently unveiled some new concepts as part of the Better Phone Project, announced in July 2024 as a unique initiative to create more meaningful phone experiences that help users find balance in their digital lives.
Technology innovator HMD is creating a phone as an alternative to a smartphone so parents can monitor their child's screen time and social media usage. The goal is to protect the mental health of the next generation with a phone that parents created together to protect their children and ensure a better balance.
The field of digital detox is one HMD is familiar with, having spearheaded the dumb phone trend by reimagining feature phone classics for modern consumers looking to limit screen time and social media use.
Lars Silberbauer, CMO of HMD, said: “The Better Phone Project is a journey to discovering a variety of solutions that tackle digital overload, providing choice and balance. Our goal is to collaborate with parents and experts to develop solutions that truly meet people’s needs, driving innovation in this space.”
One interesting idea is the pebble-shaped earphone case called the paging idea, which can also be used as a mini phone. The case includes a small round display and basic phone functions such as checking the time, managing calls and recording video. The simplicity and portability of this design makes it a unique companion for those who want to stay connected but avoid constant distractions. Its compact size and integrated features make it practical and aesthetically appealing.
The phone maker is now looking to work with parents to co-create a phone and other new solutions that will be authentic smartphone replacements and allow parents to monitor their child's screen time and social media use.
Joe Ryrie Co-founder of Smartphone Free Childhood said:“We’re delighted that HMD is committed to addressing the glaring gap in the market for child-friendly phones through this project. Their research into children and smartphones is yet more evidence of the impossible position that parents find themselves in today; We either give our children access to a device they might not be ready for, or choose not to and risk alienating them from their peers.
“It’s an issue that the 100,000+ parents who’ve joined our community since February are battling with on a daily basis, and we know that solving it requires a collaborative effort between parents, children, government and tech companies.
“Parents in our community are crying out for a phone which is desirable to children but isn’t designed to steal their attention. So we’re very excited about collaborating with HMD to help define what a modern child-friendly phone should be.”
Hopefully, the new tool will also appeal to Generation Z, who have embraced the digital detox space. HMD is also working with a range of experts, campaigners and parent support groups to better understand the solutions needed. They all participate in global webinars and forums to ensure collaboration and co-creation are at the heart of HMD's The Better Phone project.
Another prominent concept is a feature phone that focuses on utility and functionality. This phone has a 3-inch half-screen display that limits overuse and facilitates quick interactions like checking maps or answering calls.
As part of The Better Phone Project, HMD commissioned new global research to provide insight into the dilemmas parents face when it comes to their children and their smartphone use. The results... revealed that 11 is the average age at which a parent hands their child a smartphone for the first time - but many admitted they wished they had waited longer.
A worldwide survey of 10,000 parents in the UK, US, India, Germany and Australia found that more than half of those surveyed said they regretted exposing their children to smartphones at such a young age. One third of the respondents cited the negative effects of the device and personality changes as the main reasons. There have been ongoing concerns about the impact of social media apps, which often go hand in hand with smartphones, on children.
A staggering 70% of parents surveyed admitted that their smartphone-free childhood means they spend more time with their family – but it's quality time their children aren't experiencing: 55% say their child's phone use is a source of big arguments, and a third have cried because of their child's phone obsession because of.
There's also a cradle that can be used to dock the phone to a larger screen or speaker, allowing users to expand its capabilities when needed. This device can be customized with secure accessories and even supports a lanyard/strap option, making it perfect for those who need a functional phone on the go but want to avoid rolling doom.
64% of parents surveyed say smartphone use has a negative impact on their child's sleep, 61% say it reduces the amount of physical activity they get, and more than half (54%) worry it reduces time spent socializing with friends.
Since more than half of the parents agree that pramphones can have a positive effect on their children and benefit them educationally - including keeping in touch with friends - parents are clearly faced with a dilemma.
Technology innovator HMD is now looking to understand these challenges and offer new and innovative solutions that can work for parents, their children, Gen Z or anyone looking for authentic alternatives to smartphones.
HMD also unveiled a smaller smartphone concept that packs basic smartphone features into a more manageable, minimalist device. With its 3-inch screen, it offers key smartphone functions such as navigation, messaging and calling while minimizing the temptation of endless scrolling. Its smaller size and reduced screen size encourage shorter interactions, giving users more control over their time while still enjoying the benefits of modern technology. Um, are we seeing a Nokia Asha phone here?
HMD is happy to work with anyone who is interested in this topic and wants to be part of the journey of change and creation of new solutions. You can register to participate at https://www.hmd.com/en_int/better-phone-project.
Other key takeaways from the global survey include that nearly 75% of parents worry that smartphones are exposing their children to online dangers, and more than half admit they don't know what their child is up to when using their phone.
Nearly half of parents believe that cell phone use has changed their child's personality, and a third say their child has body image problems because of their phone.
They unveiled a smartwatch concept designed to be integrated into a larger device setup. Combining fashion and functionality, this piece of wearable technology acts as a companion to a feature phone, allowing users to seamlessly manage their digital activities on the go.