HMD Luma: A 4G Phone That Brings Back the Headphone Jack and MicroSD Slot

HMD Global has unveiled the Luma, a new 4G smartphone that deliberately embraces features often missing from modern devices. The phone combines a 50MP main camera with decidedly retro touches like a 3.5mm headphone jack and microSD card slot, positioning itself as a practical choice for users who value expandability and wired audio connectivity.

Hardware That Prioritizes Practicality

The Luma is powered by the Unisoc T615 chipset, a 12nm processor featuring Cortex-A75 and A55 cores. While these cores aren't cutting-edge by today's standards, they should provide adequate performance for everyday tasks. The phone comes with 4GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB or 256GB, with the microSD slot offering expansion for users who need more space.

One of the Luma's standout features is its 5,000mAh battery, which supports 18W charging through its USB-C 2.0 port. This capacity should easily provide all-day battery life for most users, and the inclusion of USB-C ensures the phone remains compatible with modern charging accessories.

Display and Camera Setup

The device sports a 6.67-inch LCD display with a resolution of 720 x 1,604 pixels. While the resolution might seem modest compared to flagship devices, it should still provide decent clarity for everyday use. The lack of a specified refresh rate suggests this is a standard 60Hz panel, which is typical for phones in this category.

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the 50MP main camera sensor, which matches the capability found in HMD's Vibe 5G model. The front-facing camera is an 8MP sensor, which, while not exceptional, should suffice for video calls and casual selfies. The phone also includes stereo speakers for enhanced audio playback, whether you're using the built-in speakers or connecting via the 3.5mm headphone jack.

Connectivity and Features

As a 4G device, the Luma supports dual-SIM functionality, making it practical for users who need to manage multiple numbers or travel frequently. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 ensures compatibility with modern wireless accessories, though the presence of the headphone jack suggests HMD expects many users to prefer wired audio connections.

The FM radio receiver is another feature that's becoming increasingly rare in smartphones, appealing to users in areas with limited data connectivity or those who enjoy traditional radio broadcasts.

Software Considerations

Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Luma is its software configuration. The phone ships with Android 15 out of the box, which is disappointing given that newer Android versions are available. This choice suggests HMD may be prioritizing stability and compatibility over having the latest features, though it could also indicate a longer development cycle for this particular model.

Availability and Pricing

Currently, the HMD Luma has been spotted on HMD's websites in Nigeria and Ghana, though pricing information hasn't been disclosed yet. An Instagram teaser indicates the phone is "coming soon," suggesting official availability announcements are imminent. The phone will be available in Titanium and Blue color options.

Market Positioning

The Luma appears to be positioned as a practical, feature-rich 4G device that doesn't compromise on expandability or connectivity options. By including features like the headphone jack and microSD slot, HMD is targeting users who find these omissions frustrating in modern smartphones. The 50MP camera and 5,000mAh battery further reinforce this practical positioning.

The use of the Unisoc T615 chipset, while not flagship-level, should keep costs down while still providing adequate performance for the target market. This approach mirrors strategies used by other manufacturers targeting budget-conscious consumers who still want capable devices with modern features.

Comparison to Competitors

When compared to other devices in its likely price range, the Luma's feature set stands out. Many competing phones in the budget segment have eliminated the headphone jack and microSD slot to reduce costs and simplify design. HMD's decision to include these features could give the Luma a competitive advantage, particularly in markets where these features are still highly valued.

The 50MP camera is another differentiator, as many budget phones settle for lower-resolution sensors. Combined with the 5,000mAh battery, these specifications suggest HMD is aiming to deliver good value rather than cutting corners on key features.

Conclusion

The HMD Luma represents a thoughtful approach to smartphone design that prioritizes user needs over following industry trends. By including features that many manufacturers have abandoned, HMD is creating a device that appeals to a specific segment of users who value practicality and expandability. While the dated chipset and Android 15 software might disappoint some, the overall package appears well-suited for its target market, particularly in regions where 4G connectivity remains the standard and features like FM radio and expandable storage are still important considerations.