HMD and Mattel Unveil the Nostalgic HMD Barbie Phone: Your Ultimate Accessory for Digital Detox for your kind editorial consideration. Thank you for your continued support.
Nairobi, Kenya – Wednesday, 28th August: Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has officially launched the much-anticipated HMD Barbie™ Phone—a chic, stylish retro flip phone in collaboration with Mattel, Inc. This launch is a nod to nostalgia, offering a perfect accessory for those looking to unplug from their smartphones and embrace simpler, more fun-filled moments.
With its iconic Barbie pink design, the HMD Barbie™ Phone takes you back to the days of carefree communication, where calls and texts reign supreme—without the distractions of social media. This phone is your go-to for a digital detox, with a keypad that features hidden designs of palm trees, hearts, and flamingos that light up in the dark, adding a playful twist to every interaction.
Commenting on the launch of the Barbie Flip Phone, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Human Mobile Devices, Lars Silberbauer, said; “In our fast-paced digital world, it can often feel like the online buzz never stops. This phone encourages you to ditch your smartphone in times when you just want less browsing and more fun, all with the help of a true cultural icon, Barbie. Barbie is as popular as she’s ever been, and feature phones are continuing to go from strength to strength – we’re bringing two brilliant things together. We cannot wait for people to get their hands on the device and take a holiday from their smartphone”.
Head of Licensing at Mattel EMEA, Ruth Henriquez, added; “At Mattel we have an unwavering commitment to design and innovation and this exciting new phone is a great example of that, tapping into important insights into how people want to limit their screen time. HMD has created amazing easter eggs which will make the user experience even more special and playful, sure to delight Barbie fans all over the world”.
In an era of digital overload, the HMD Barbie™ Phone provides a refreshing alternative. It features digital wellbeing tools such as calming sounds, alarms, and self-care reminders—all wrapped in a design that’s both nostalgic and modern. For fans of the Y2K aesthetic, the phone’s camera supports this trending style, capturing images with a retro charm that resonates with Gen Z.
This isn’t just a phone—it’s a customizable accessory. The device includes two additional back covers—one inspired by the 1992 Totally Hair Barbie™ doll and another with a vibrant ‘shooting heart’ design—allowing users to switch up their style as they please. The package also comes with Barbie-themed accessories, including a beaded phone strap, stickers, and attachable charms, making it a must-have for Barbie enthusiasts and those seeking to add a touch of glam to their daily lives.
This phone also comes with a bespoke user interface including Barbie wallpapers and Barbie app icons to support digital wellbeing including ‘Digital balance tips’, ‘Barbie Meditation’ and in the settings you will find ‘Self-care reminders. Even the sounds and alarms are relaxing, with ringtones to choose from including ‘floating’, ‘Coastal’, ‘DreamHouse™, ‘Azure Barbie, and ‘Surf Chimes’.
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