- By Prateek Levi
- Fri, 24 Jul 2026 07:30 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Feature phones are no longer just about calls and texts. HMD's latest offering, the Touch AI, is a good example of that. Reportedly launched in China, the new handset packs a touchscreen, 4G connectivity and a bunch of AI features, while still keeping away from the distractions of a regular smartphone.
Instead of running Android, the HMD Touch AI is said to use a closed operating system, which means users won't be able to download third party apps or endlessly scroll through short video platforms. The idea appears to be offering a simpler phone without giving up on modern conveniences.
HMD Touch AI Price, Availability
According to an ITHome report, the HMD Touch AI is priced at CNY 469 (roughly Rs. 6,700) and is already up for pre orders in China.
The handset comes in a bright cyan colour that instantly brings back memories of the old Nokia Lumia smartphones. HMD is also expected to sell additional back covers in yellow, blue and white, giving users the option to change the look whenever they want.
HMD Touch AI Features, Specifications
On paper, the HMD Touch AI looks like a feature phone, but it packs a few tricks you wouldn't normally expect in this category.
The phone reportedly sports a 3.2 inch touchscreen and comes with a voice broadcast feature that can read on screen content aloud. Since it runs a closed operating system, there is no support for third party apps, which could appeal to users looking to cut down on screen time. It also includes parental controls, blacklist and whitelist options, along with everyday tools like an MP3 player, calculator, calendar, alarm clock, world clock, unit converter, countdown timer and even the classic Snake game.
The biggest talking point, however, is the AI experience. The report claims the phone is powered by ByteDance's Doubao AI model and includes six AI assistants. These can answer questions, hold conversations, tell stories, help with translations and even offer spoken English practice by correcting pronunciation and grammar.
There's also an education focused side to the AI. The phone can reportedly recognise homework questions and explain how to solve them instead of simply revealing the answer. It is also capable of generating artwork from text prompts.
The cameras aren't particularly impressive on paper, with a 2 megapixel rear camera accompanied by a front camera, but HMD is leaning on AI here as well. Users are said to be able to transform photos into comic book illustrations, animated images or traditional Chinese painting styles. The company also claims the handset can recreate the nostalgic look of old CCD cameras.
Connectivity is surprisingly comprehensive for a feature phone. The HMD Touch AI reportedly supports dual 4G SIM cards, VoLTE, Wi Fi, hotspot sharing and USB Type C. It can even share its internet connection with a laptop or tablet. Support for Alipay QR code payments is also included, while parents can pair the phone with their own smartphone to manage spending limits and check transaction history.
Another useful addition is a customisable top button, which can be turned into an SOS key for quickly sending emergency alerts to pre selected contacts.
Keeping everything running is a 1,950mAh battery, which charges via USB Type C.
Design is another area where HMD seems to be tapping into nostalgia. The cyan finish and circular rear camera module clearly take inspiration from the Nokia Lumia series, making the phone stand out from typical feature phones currently available in the market.