HMD Arc

HMD Global has unveiled the HMD Arc, a new entry-level smartphone aimed at providing essential features at an affordable price. Announced on December 18, 2024, and slated for release in January 2025, the HMD Arc is designed for users seeking reliability and functionality without breaking the bank. Despite its budget-friendly price, it offers a solid mix of specifications to cater to basic smartphone needs.

Design and Build

The HMD Arc features a minimalist design, prioritizing practicality. Measuring 166.4 x 76.9 x 9 mm and weighing 185.4 grams, the device is lightweight and ergonomic, making it comfortable to hold. It is available in a sleek Black color, appealing to users who prefer understated aesthetics.

The device is IP54 dust and splash resistant in select regions, such as Europe, enhancing its durability against everyday mishaps. With a Nano-SIM slot and the option for microSDXC expansion, the phone strikes a balance between usability and versatility.

Display

The HMD Arc boasts a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display, providing sufficient screen real estate for browsing, streaming, and social media. While the 576 x 1280 pixel resolution and ~215 ppi density may not deliver high-definition visuals, it remains adequate for budget users. The display reaches 460 nits peak brightness, ensuring decent visibility in various lighting conditions.

Performance

The smartphone is powered by the Unisoc SC9863A chipset, a modest yet capable processor for basic tasks. Its octa-core CPU, featuring four 1.6 GHz Cortex-A55 cores and four 1.2 GHz Cortex-A55 cores, handles everyday activities like messaging, browsing, and streaming efficiently. The IMG8322 GPU supports casual gaming, making the HMD Arc suitable for light multimedia consumption.

Running on Android 14 (Go edition), the phone is optimized for smooth performance on low-powered hardware. This lightweight version of Android ensures quick app launches, reduced bloatware, and enhanced battery life, making it an excellent choice for first-time smartphone users or those upgrading from a basic feature phone.

Camera System

The HMD Arc’s camera setup is straightforward yet functional. The 13 MP rear camera features autofocus and supports panorama shots, aided by an LED flash for low-light photography. While it may not rival high-end smartphones in detail and dynamic range, it delivers reliable performance for everyday snapshots.

The 5 MP front-facing camera is sufficient for video calls and casual selfies. Both cameras support video recording, adding a layer of versatility to the device.

Battery Life and Charging

Equipped with a 5000 mAh battery, the HMD Arc ensures long-lasting usage, easily powering through a day of moderate activity. The 10W wired charging via USB Type-C provides a simple and reliable way to recharge, though it lacks the speed of modern fast-charging solutions.

Connectivity and Features

The HMD Arc supports GSM, HSPA, and LTE networks, ensuring broad compatibility. It includes Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.2, GPS, and GALILEO for connectivity. An FM radio and a 3.5mm headphone jack cater to traditional media users. Security features include a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for convenient unlocking.

Conclusion

The HMD Arc is a no-frills smartphone that delivers essential features at an accessible price. With a durable design, decent performance, and robust battery life, it is ideal for budget-conscious users seeking reliability. Whether you’re a first-time smartphone buyer or someone looking for a dependable secondary device, the HMD Arc offers excellent value for money.