HMD Global just unveiled four new Nokia feature phones-Nokia 200 4G, Nokia 210 4G, Nokia 215 4G (2nd Edition), and Nokia 235 4G (2nd Edition)-all packed with surprising modern upgrades for the category: a built-in AI assistant activated by a dedicated button and support for video calls via the Xpress Chat app. This is a notable push to modernize classic button phones, traditionally limited to voice and SMS.
The AI assistant runs on the Sikey AI platform and can be launched directly via a button in the center of the navigation pad. Users can ask simple questions and issue basic voice commands to control phone functions. Access to the assistant is free for the first 180 days, after which HMD plans to switch to a subscription model.
While AI assistants and video calls aren’t new to feature phones-the JioPhone 2 on KaiOS offered YouTube, WhatsApp, and Google Assistant back in 2018, and KaiOS has powered over 150 million devices-HMD’s move is unique because these Nokia phones run on the simpler S30+ platform. Typically, S30+ devices offer minimal apps like a browser or radio, so integrating voice AI and video calls marks a rare upgrade for this segment.
Nokia 200 4G and Nokia 235 4G specs and features
The lineup splits into two sets based on display size and camera features. Nokia 210 4G and Nokia 215 4G sport 2.4-inch QVGA screens, while Nokia 200 4G and Nokia 235 4G feature larger 2.8-inch IPS displays. Camera hardware is modest: only the Nokia 210 4G has a basic shooter, and the Nokia 235 4G includes a 2MP sensor.
- S30+ operating system on all four models
- 1450 mAh battery
- 4G connectivity and Bluetooth 5.0 support
- USB Type-C charging
- 3.5mm headphone jack and FM radio
- Classic Snake game pre-installed
To enable video calling, these phones come with built-in VGA cameras and use the Xpress Chat service. Video calls are a rarity in button phones, which mainly stick to voice calls, SMS, and simple messaging apps-even on 4G devices-making this feature stand out.
HMD continues its steady upgrade path for legacy Nokia phones, emphasizing modern ports and network support. Recent iterations have moved many models to 4G and USB-C, and now adding AI and video calling provides fresh reasons to choose a Nokia feature phone as a backup device or a simple phone for seniors who don’t want a smartphone.
HMD hasn’t revealed pricing for the Nokia 200 4G, 210 4G, 215 4G (2nd Edition), or 235 4G (2nd Edition) yet. Price is critical in this segment, where customers often decide between devices based on differences of just a few tens of dollars. These Nokia phones will compete not only with other updated Nokia feature phones but also with budget 4G models from brands like itel, Lava, and Jio, especially in Asian and African markets.
Feature phones remain a significant part of the global mobile ecosystem, especially in emerging markets and among users looking for simple, reliable communication devices without the complexity and cost of smartphones. HMD’s integration of AI assistants and video calls into the humble button phone could signal a new wave of smarter feature phones that blur the line between traditional basic devices and entry-level smartphones.