-Tanaya Dutta
At MWC 2026 in Barcelona, HMD signalled a fresh direction for its feature phone lineup – one that goes beyond basic calling and texting.
Instead of focusing only on hardware, the company is now bringing more services to its feature phones, including a built-in digital wallet, video calling support, and an AI-powered assistant. HMD announced that throughout 2026, it plans to roll out these new additions to selected feature phones in India.
Digital wallet
HMD is prepping to bring a built-in digital wallet to its feature phones, starting in India in the first half of 2026, followed by a wider rollout later in the year.
The wallet is designed to enable secure remittances, allowing users to securely receive money, store funds on the device, cash out via local payment systems, and transfer money to UPI accounts for daily transactions. The service is being developed in partnership with fintech firm Kivi3 and blockchain company Polygon Labs, and will include device-level security along with PIN protection.
Video calling
There will be video calling support for feature phones through the new Xpress Chat app. The app will support video calls using the front camera, along with voice messages, photo sharing, and group chats. HMD says the service will work between compatible feature phones and smartphones, provided both devices have the Xpress Chat app installed.
AI Assistant
The company is also bringing an AI assistant to its feature phones for the first time, allowing users to make calls, set alarms, turn on the torch, and ask simple questions using voice commands.
In addition, HMD has announced a pilot project with inTouch focused on older adults. The service will bring AI companionship to feature phones through a single-button access. Designed to speak slowly, remember personal context, and hold tailored conversations, the pilot will begin in Europe, with a wider rollout planned based on its success.
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