HMD Global, known for its innovative approach in the smartphone market, has unveiled its latest offerings: the HMD Crest and HMD Crest Max. These new 5G phones not only emphasize cutting-edge camera technology but also mark HMD’s entry into the Indian market with devices that are made in India. Let’s delve into what makes these devices stand out and how they compare against each other.
HMD Crest Series: Made in India and Ready for the World
The HMD Crest series is a significant release for HMD Global, as it marks the company’s first smartphone manufactured in India. The HMD Crest and its more advanced sibling, the HMD Crest Max, bring a range of features at a budget-friendly price point.
Key Features Overview
- Affordable 5G Connectivity: Powered by the Unisoc T760 chipset.
- High-Resolution Cameras: 50MP selfie cameras with hands-free mode.
- Durable Build: IP52 splash resistance and strengthened glass.
- Repairability: Easy self-repair options for key components.
Detailed Specifications and Comparison
Performance and Memory
Both the HMD Crest and Crest Max are powered by the Unisoc T760 chipset, a 6nm powerhouse featuring four Cortex-A76 cores and four Cortex-A55 cores, clocked at 2.2GHz. Coupled with a Mali-G57 GPU and a built-in 5G modem, these phones offer seamless performance for daily tasks and connectivity.
| Feature | HMD Crest | HMD Crest Max |
|---|---|---|
| Chipset | Unisoc T760 | Unisoc T760 |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB (expandable) | 256GB (expandable) |
Display and Build Quality
The phones boast 6.67-inch FHD+ OLED displays with a 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring vibrant visuals and smooth interactions. The displays are shielded by strengthened glass, and the back panels are also made of durable glass, providing a premium feel.
| Feature | HMD Crest | HMD Crest Max |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.67” FHD+ OLED | 6.67” FHD+ OLED |
| Refresh Rate | 90Hz | 90Hz |
| Build Material | Strengthened Glass | Strengthened Glass |
| Water Resistance | IP52 | IP52 |
Camera Technology
One of the standout features of the HMD Crest series is the 50MP selfie camera with an innovative hands-free mode, allowing users to capture photos using simple gestures like the peace sign, thumbs up, or heart sign.
Rear Camera Setup:
| Feature | HMD Crest | HMD Crest Max |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Camera | 50MP + Depth Sensor | 64MP + 5MP Ultra-wide + 2MP Macro |
| Front Camera | 50MP | 50MP |
| Hands-Free Selfie | Yes | Yes |
Battery and Charging
| Feature | HMD Crest | HMD Crest Max |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | 5,000mAh | 5,000mAh |
| Fast Charging | 33W | 33W |
| Charge Cycles | 800 | 800 |
| Connectivity | 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 | 5G, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Ports | USB-C, 3.5mm jack | USB-C, 3.5mm jack |
Software and Repairability
The HMD Crest series runs on Android 14 out of the box, promising a clean experience without bloatware. However, HMD only guarantees two years of security patches and has not specified OS update plans.
The phones are designed with “Gen 1 repairability” in mind, meaning users can easily replace components like the screen, battery, charging port, and back panel at home with a basic toolkit and tutorial.
Pricing and Availability
The HMD Crest and Crest Max will launch during Amazon India’s Great Freedom Sale in August. They are priced competitively to offer excellent value for money.
| Model | Price (India) | Price (Naira) | Price (USD) | Price (Euro) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HMD Crest (6/128GB) | ₹14,500 | ₦279,300 | $175 | €160 |
| HMD Crest Max (8/256GB) | ₹16,500 | ₦311,220 | $195 | €180 |
Sale Pricing: During the Amazon sale, the HMD Crest will be available for ₹13,000 (₦247786), and the HMD Crest Max will be priced at ₹15,000 (₦23,940,000).
Conclusion: A New Chapter for HMD in India
The launch of the HMD Crest and Crest Max marks a pivotal moment for HMD Global as they expand their reach into the Indian market with locally manufactured devices. With a focus on affordability, high-resolution cameras, and repairability, these phones are poised to capture the attention of budget-conscious consumers looking for 5G-ready devices.
The combination of competitive pricing, robust features, and a commitment to quality makes the HMD Crest series an attractive choice for users worldwide. As the Great Freedom Sale approaches, the Crest and Crest Max are set to make a significant impact in the affordable smartphone segment.
Stay tuned for further updates and reviews as these devices hit the market, and explore how they stack up against other contenders in the rapidly evolving world of mobile technology.
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