HMD Key Now Official: A Budget-Friendly Smartphone w/ Android 14 Go Edition

We are in the start of the year 2025, and HMD Global has officially unveiled an entry-level budget phone, the HMD Key. The device features a large 6.52-inch HD+ IPS LCD display. Unfortunately, HMD debuted this with just a 60Hz refresh rate and 460 nits of brightness.

And under the hood, it runs on a UNISOC SC9832E SoC paired with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage. But the storage can be expanded up to 128GB via a microSD card, and it supports an additional 2GB of virtual RAM for enhanced performance.

It also includes a modest camera setup, featuring an 8MP rear camera with autofocus and a 5MP front-facing camera for selfies.

Now, powering the device is a somewhat large 4,000mAh battery, but it only supports 10W charging. The HMD Key runs on the highly popular Android 14 Go Edition.

The HMD Key is now available in select regions such as the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, priced at GBP 59 (approximately ~PHP 4,299). No details on Philippine availability yet.

What are your thoughts on the HMD Key? Would this fit your needs for a budget smartphone? Share your thoughts in the comments!

HMD Key specs:
6.52-inches HD+ IPS LCD, 60Hz refresh rate
UNISOC SC9832E SoC
2GB
32GB (expandable up to 128GB via microSD)
8MP autofocus (rear), 5MP (front)
Dual SIM, LTE
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
Bluetooth 4.2
Android 14 Go Edition
4,000mAh with 10W charging
166.4 × 76.9 × 9 mm
185.4 grams
Black, Blue