HMD Global exits US market, halts sale of HMD, Nokia devices –report

HMD Global, the official licensee of the Nokia brand, has quietly exited the US market.

In a statement shared by Wired journalist Julian Chokkattu on Threads, the company cited “a challenging geopolitical and economic environment” behind the decision.

Its official US web store has gone offline, and sales of HMD and Nokia devices in the region have been paused. While some product pages are still accessible, most of the buying options have been removed or disabled.

The company hasn’t shared exact details, but industry reports point to ongoing challenges such as tariffs and trade rules that may have made it difficult for HMD Global to stay profitable in the US.

The company says it will continue to support existing users in the US by honoring warranties and service coverage. It also noted it would assist employees affected by the transition, though no further details were mentioned.

HMD began operations in 2016 after acquiring the license to use the Nokia brand from Microsoft. In 2023, the company launched its own HMD-branded devices, including the repairable HMD Skyline and the Barbie flip phone, which targeted niche markets.

However, its US presence remained small. Only four HMD-branded smartphones launched in the country, with the last being the HMD Fusion in September 2024.

The company now says it will focus on other markets, targeting families, privacy-focused users, and regions where microfinancing plays a bigger role.

In the Philippines, HMD has continued releasing both feature phones and smartphones. Its latest models include the entry-level HMD Crest 5G and the budget-friendly HMD Aura2, priced at PHP 4,290.

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