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HMD begins manufacturing 5G smartphones in Europe

published on 3 min read
  • HMD is the first major global smartphone manufacturer to bring manufacturing to Europe.
  • The first 5G¹ smartphone coming off the new European production line is the Nokia XR21, now available to Enterprise customers.
  • In addition, 30² limited edition devices will be made available for sale for consumers.

Following the recent announcement of its transition to a new multi-brand portfolio strategy, HMD Global, the largest European smartphone manufacturer, today announces another major milestone: HMD have started manufacturing 5G¹ smartphones in Europe. The company’s first device off the line, the Nokia XR21, is now available for purchase by Enterprise customers. This aligns with the overall growth potential for smartphones in Europe, with Canalys forecasting that the European smartphone market will increase by 7% in 2024.

“We are thrilled to be manufacturing the Nokia XR21, our signature rugged 5G smartphone, in Europe. We are dedicated to investing in security, technology and manufacturing processes that make our devices more secure and longer lasting,” said Jean-Francois Baril, Co-Founder, Chairman and CEO of HMD Global.

‘Our future plans include further investment into software security, with the intention to offer customised software and security features directly to customers.’

Responding to the evolving needs of Enterprise customers, HMD developed capabilities and processes to bring device production to Europe. Every device undergoes rigorous software and malware testing in Europe, with some Enterprise customers requesting additional security in conjunction with a number of IT security partners. Data is stored securely in the EU: With a focus on software security and privacy by design, consumer and corporate data from all smartphones made by HMD has been stored and processed on HMD’s servers in Finland since 2019.

Beyond its security credentials, the XR21 is also built to last and designed with sustainability in mind. With military-grade durability certification³ and IP69K rating, this smartphone is certified to withstand dust, heat, impact, and water. As part of HMD’s on-going commitment to sustainability, the Nokia XR21 is crafted to minimise impact on the environment: The chassis is made from 100% recycled aluminium and its two-day battery life⁴ supports 60% more charges over its lifetime. Additional stages in the European production process will help to further reduce emissions.

To celebrate the new manufacturing origin and security standards of the Nokia XR21, a limited edition of 30² units to come off the European production line will be available to purchase on hmd.com. The limited Made in Europe edition devices feature an exclusive Frosted Platinum colour, are engraved with their own unique serial number and come with a certificate of origin in the box.

The Nokia XR21 Limited edition in exclusive Frosted Platinum is available from €699 (£599) today in UK, France, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Italy and Finland on hmd.com. The Nokia XR21 European Edition in Black will be available soon from 649€ (£549) in the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Italy and Finland from hmd.com.

Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, HMD Global Oy (“HMD”) is the largest European manufacturer, a leader in sustainability with our repairable devices, and the top choice for taking a digital detox. We are passionate about creating value for people, partners and the planet.

Coming soon, you can expect to see a new portfolio of HMD branded mobile devices, as well as Nokia mobile devices and collaboration with exciting new partners. For further information, see www.hmd.com.

Nokia is a registered trademark of Nokia Corporation. All specifications, features and other product information provided are subject to change without notice. Variations on offering may apply. Check local availability. Google and Android are trademarks of Google LLC.

¹ 5G coverage is limited and might not be supported by your network service provider. Actual speed depends on network and other factors.

² Only 50 Nokia XR21 Limited Edition smartphones have been created, and 30 of these will be the first devices off the European assembly line to land in the Nokia phones online store.

³ Based on MIL-STD 810H rating.

⁴ Based on a real-life usage test by HMD Global. See more info at http://www.hmd.com/nokia-xr-21-limited-edition