HMD Skyline Launches Featuring Nokia N9-Inspired Design and Simple Repair Options
HMD introduced the Skyline, its most powerful self-branded smartphone to date, featuring a design reminiscent of the Nokia N9 and highlighting “Gen 2” repairability, allowing users to replace a cracked screen or failing battery in under 10 minutes.
The Skyline boasts a 6.5-inch OLED display with Full HD+ resolution and a refresh rate of up to 144 Hz. Its front camera is a 50 MP sensor with autofocus housed within a punch hole.
Under the hood, it packs a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 chipset, accompanied by either 8 GB or 12 GB of RAM and storage options of 128 GB or 256 GB, expandable via microSD card by an additional 512 GB. On the rear, the Skyline features a versatile triple camera setup: a 108 MP main camera with OIS, a 13 MP ultra-wide shooter, and a 50 MP 2x telephoto camera capable of 4x zoom. HMD incorporates AI Capture Fusion to enhance photo detail using AI technology.
The Skyline’s back cover can be easily opened with a single screw, facilitating quick repairs for issues like cracked screens or depleted batteries using standard iFixit kits, which also supply spare parts.
Powering the device is a 4,600 mAh battery supporting 33W wired and 15W magnetic Qi2 wireless charging. It includes a customizable side button for swift access to apps and features.
Running on Android 14, the Skyline promises 2 OS updates and 3 years of security patches. It features a Detox Mode to limit notifications and social network access during overwhelming moments.
The HMD Skyline is priced at €499/$499/£399, though notably, it does not include an adapter in the box. HMD offers a 33W wall charger for £30 or a 30W dual-port adapter for £20 on its website.
Given its focus on easy repairability, users can purchase replacement parts directly from the manufacturer: the display costs $95, the battery cover is $30, the battery itself is $25, and the charging port is $20. iFixit offers a fix kit for an additional $5.
