Introducing the HMD Pulse Pro Is It Your Next Smartphone? The HMD Skyline has generated considerable buzz. Is it the nostalgia for the Nokia N9 or the promise of easy repairability that’s capturing attention? Available in select countries and open for pre-orders elsewhere, the question begs: Will you make it your next purchase?
Its design is refreshingly distinct, departing from the ubiquitous rounded rectangles. Comparisons to the beloved MeeGo phone, the N9, are favorable. Unlike its predecessor’s polycarbonate build, the Skyline boasts a modern metal-and-glass construction.
One standout feature is its DIY repair capability, designed to empower non-professionals. Armed with a basic tool set from iFixit or standard Torx screwdrivers, users can replace a cracked screen in just 10 minutes—an impressive feat. However, criticisms linger regarding HMD’s approach to software support, with only 2 OS updates and 3 years of security patches deemed insufficient.
Introducing the HMD Pulse Pro Is It Your Next Smartphone?
Under the hood, the Skyline packs robust hardware. Highlights include a 6.55-inch FHD+ 144Hz OLED display and a 4,600mAh battery supporting both 33W wired and 15W wireless charging, featuring a Qi2 wireless option akin to Apple’s MagSafe. Notably, it may be the first Android device equipped with Qi2 technology.
Photography enthusiasts will appreciate its 108MP main camera with OIS, capable of 4K video recording at 30fps. It’s complemented by a 50MP 2x telephoto lens (with 4x zoom), a 13MP ultra-wide camera, and a promising 50MP front-facing camera. Detailed tests are underway for a comprehensive review.
Further enhancing its appeal are the microSD slot and the cherished headphone jack. However, there are drawbacks to consider—the emphasis on repairability limits the IP rating to IP54, and the presence of Gorilla Glass 3 raises concerns regarding durability.
Introducing the HMD Pulse Pro Is It Your Next Smartphone?
Stay tuned as we delve deeper into our full review, providing comprehensive insights into the HMD Skyline’s performance and usability.
The HMD Skyline is priced at £400 in the UK for the 8/128GB model and £500 for the 8/256GB variant. In Germany, it is currently listed as “coming soon” with a planned launch on August 9, priced at €550 for the 8/256GB model.
For those seeking a throwback design, the OnePlus Nord 4 offers an aluminum unibody. It boasts the more powerful SD 7+ Gen 3 chipset but lacks a telephoto module. The aluminum back excludes wireless charging, yet it features a substantial 5,500mAh battery with 100W fast wired charging.
Meanwhile, the Realme GT 6 presents a modern aesthetic with a 6.78-inch LTPO display and Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 chipset. Its 50MP main camera and 50MP 2x telephoto lens set up an intriguing comparison with the HMD Skyline. The Realme GT 6 also sports a 5,500mAh battery, supporting 120W fast wired charging.
Notably, the OnePlus Nord 4 stands out with a commitment to 4 OS updates and 6 years of security patches. The Realme GT 6, on the other hand, promises 3 OS updates and 4 years of security patches, still ahead of the HMD Skyline in this regard.
Considering an alternative like the Sony Xperia 10 VI? This model embraces an old-school design and utilizes the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 chipset, akin to the hardware found in the 7s Gen 2 but operating at lower clock speeds. It features a 50MP main camera, an 8MP ultra-wide camera, and lacks a telephoto lens. The 8MP selfie camera is discreetly housed in the top bezel rather than integrated into the display. With a 5,000mAh battery, the Xperia 10 VI offers extended battery life, albeit with slower wired charging capabilities.
