HMD Is Bringing AI, Digital Wallets & Video Calls to Feature Phones in 2026

March 4, 2026

2 min read

Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has outlined a series of new features launching throughout H1 2026 aimed at integrating modern digital services — including financial tools, AI assistants, and video calling — into traditional feature phones, targeting both under-connected global populations and older demographics in mature markets.

HMD Feature Phone Upgrades — What’s Coming in 2026

Feature	Detail
Digital Wallet	Built-in UPI support, PIN-protected, secure remittance
Fintech Partners	Kivi3 + Polygon Labs (blockchain payments)
India Launch	H1 2026 — world’s largest remittance market
Video Calling App	Xpress Chat — cross-platform with smartphones
Messaging	Voice messages, photo sharing, group chats
AI Assistant	Voice commands for calls, alarms, flashlight, Q&A
India AI Partner	Sarvam AI — locally relevant experiences
Senior AI Service	inTouch partnership — Europe pilot, single-button access

Three Big Upgrades Explained

The built-in digital wallet will allow users to receive, store, and cash out money using local payment systems, transfer funds directly to UPI accounts, and make payments using existing infrastructure — with device-level security and PIN protection. The remittance service is being developed in partnership with Kivi3 and Polygon Labs, with an initial launch in India planned for H1 2026.

On the communication side, HMD is introducing front-facing cameras on feature phones alongside Xpress Chat — a lightweight app supporting video calls, voice messages, photo sharing, and group chats that works seamlessly between feature phones and smartphones as long as both have the app installed.

The AI integration story is arguably the most interesting. In India, HMD’s partnership with Sarvam AI focuses on locally relevant AI experiences via simple voice commands. In Europe, HMD is piloting an AI companionship service through inTouch — designed specifically for older adults, accessible via a single button press, programmed to speak slowly, retain personal history, and engage in context-aware conversations to reduce senior isolation.

Also check our Nokia and HMD coverage and best feature phones in India 2026 on TechnoSports. Full details at HMD’s official website.

FAQs

When will HMD’s digital wallet feature launch in India?

HMD has confirmed the digital wallet with UPI support will launch in India in H1 2026, with a phased international rollout to follow later in the year.

Can HMD feature phone users video call someone on a smartphone?

Yes — the new Xpress Chat app supports cross-platform video calls between feature phones and smartphones, as long as both devices have the app installed.