MWC 2025

HMD Fusion X1 debuts with a focus on young people and a special Barcelona edition

At MWC 2025, HMD launched the HMD Fusion X1, a modified version of the Fusion that inaugurates a family-oriented line of the brand, with the new product focusing on young people. Keeping the modest specifications of the original model, the new device draws attention for the robust parental resources it brings on board, in addition to a special edition developed with the Barcelona football team.

Discussions around the impact of connected life on the mental health of children and adolescents have been ongoing in the increasingly digital world we live in, leading to laws around the world, including in Brazil, that restrict the use of cell phones in schools, for example.

Having access to a device too early also creates security risks, in which criminals may try to contact and take advantage of young people. Reinforcing these points, HMD released a survey showing alarming numbers of the dangers that surround the younger audience.

Seeking to help combat these problems, the company has introduced the HMD Fusion X1, a smartphone that features security mechanisms to protect children and young people, improve parental control and offer more complete tracking tools.

Two main features set the Fusion X1 apart, starting with the fact that the device comes with Xplora, a parental control platform that offers full management of the cell phone. Normally, the solution is paid, costing €4.99 (~R$30) per month, and it is not clear whether there will be a free trial period.

The second element is the integration of an AI technology that scans and blocks dangerous and inappropriate content in real time, running locally on the phone, developed in partnership with the British cybersecurity company SafeToNet. The tool will be available on this and other HMD cell phones starting in the North American summer.

Despite the concern with security, the manufacturer says it has sought to keep the device interesting for young people, even though the technical specifications are basic. We have the same specifications as the traditional HMD Fusion here: the design is quite industrial, with an exposed battery and a modular interface for using accessories such as power banks and colorful covers with extra features.

The processing is handled by the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chip, accompanied by 6 GB or 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB or 256 GB of storage, with the possibility of expansion via MicroSD cards. The set is competent for basic use, and should handle some light games.

On the screen, the Fusion X1 has a 6.56-inch IPS LCD panel, with HD+ resolution of 1612 x 720 pixels, a refresh rate of 90 Hz and a brightness of 600 nits. The sound system is simple, with a mono speaker, but there is a P2 connector for wired headphones. The cameras are said to be one of the model's highlights, featuring a 50 MP selfie lens housed in a centered hole in the display, as well as a 108 MP main lens with electronic stabilization (EIS) and a 2 MP auxiliary sensor for depth calculations.

Another strong point is the battery, with a capacity of 5,000 mAh, which should guarantee extensive autonomy considering the entry-level technical specifications. In addition, there is 33 W fast charging, but a total recharge time has not been announced.

In addition, there is 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1, NFC, a fingerprint reader integrated into the power button on the side, IP54 certification for resistance to dust and splashes of water, and the Android 14 operating system. HMD promises two major updates and three years of security updates.

To round off the package, the HMD Fusion X1 will also be offered in a special Barça Fusion Edition, prepared in partnership with FC Barcelona — a possible attempt to make the phone more attractive to younger audiences. In addition to a cover with the team logo and player signatures that glow under ultraviolet light, there are wallpapers, notification ringtones, apps and other personalized items in the software.

mundophone