Human Mobile Devices (HMD) at its MWC 2025 event unveiled the HMD X1, a smartphone designed to address parental concerns regarding children’s exposure to online risks. Developed in partnership with Xplora, the Fusion X1 seeks to provide a device that appeals to teenagers while incorporating robust parental controls through a Xplora subscription, starting at €4.99 per month.
The X1’s development follows HMD’s July 2024 announcement of The Better Phone Project, an initiative focused on mitigating the impact of smartphone use on youth well-being.
A recent survey conducted by HMD, involving 10,000 parents, revealed that 75% expressed concerns about internet dangers, and 65% worried about the effects of smartphone use on their children’s mental health. Additionally, over half of the surveyed parents regretted providing their children with smartphones at an early age.
The HMD Fusion X1 integrates operating system-level parental controls, accessed through the Xplora subscription, allowing for customizable app and internet access limitations. Parents can choose to block social media and internet browsing entirely, or implement specific limitations.
The subscription also provides continuous location tracking at 20-second intervals with safe zone settings, an SOS emergency call function, low battery alerts, and remote device access for parents. A School Mode feature enables parents to restrict specific apps and functions during school hours. These controls are managed remotely through the Xplora app, allowing for real-time adjustments based on the teenager’s needs and environment.
Beyond its safety features, the X1 is designed to appeal to teenagers. It includes a 108MP AI-powered camera, a 5000mAh battery, face and fingerprint unlock technology, and IP54 splash resistance. The device also features a 3.5mm headphone jack. All these are similar to the HMD Fusion which was launched last year.
Similar to the Fusion, HMD has incorporated its Fusion modular design, allowing for device personalization through interchangeable “Outfits.” These modular accessories provide additional functionalities, such as gaming capabilities, a built-in ring light, and extended battery life.
Xplora, a provider of kid-safe devices, has contributed its expertise in parental control technology to the X1. The partnership aims to facilitate healthy tech habits by providing children with controlled access to communication and navigation features.
HMD intends to expand its range of devices designed to address the challenges faced by families in the digital age. The company plans to collaborate with parents and young people to develop sustainable solutions that prioritize safety and practicality.
Pricing and availability
The HMD Fusion X1 is priced at 229 GBP (USD 288 / Rs. 25,185 approx.) and will be available to order in May 2025.
Commenting on the phone, Lars Silberbauer, Global HMD Chief Marketing Officer, said:
At HMD, we believe kids shouldn’t have to choose between safety and having a smartphone they love. Parents have been asking for a solution that balances protection with freedom, and the HMD X1 delivers just that. We’ve worked closely with families on our Better Phone Project to gain insight into how we can create a device that looks and feels like a premium smartphone while offering the safety guardrails parents need. This is a big step in redefining what a first phone should be – one that gives kids a safe start in the digital world without feeling left out.