Finally, after a long wait, HMD has revealed the HMD Barbie Phone. It is a phone that may be interesting as HMD partnered with a company to launch it: a proper collaboration. HMD has partnered with Mattel to bring the Barbie Phone. It will attract the Barbie fans globally. However, you must know it has two versions: The global and the US. Both share different specifications, let’s have a detailed look below.
HMD Barbie Phone Global vs US Versions
We have complied all the differences between the two models below. However, if you want you can check out the summary of changes too:
Design
At first glance, both versions may look similar but there is a small addition to the US version.
Below is the design of the HMD Barbie Phone Global Version.
Below is the US-exclusive version coming with a hang holder on the flip bar.
Display
Global Version:
- Primary Display: 2.8 inches, QVGA
- Secondary Display: 1.77 inches, QQVGA
US Exclusive Version:
- Primary Display: 2.8 inches, QVGA
- Secondary Display: 1.77 inches, QQVGA
Both versions share identical display specifications, with the same primary and secondary screen sizes and resolutions.
Camera and Imaging
Global Version:
- Rear Camera: 0.3 MP
- Flash: LED Flash
US Exclusive Version:
- Rear Camera: 5 MP
- Flash: Flashlight
The US Exclusive version significantly upgrades its rear camera to 5 MP, compared to the 0.3 MP camera on the Global version.
Performance and Battery Life
Global Version:
- Talk Time: Up to 9 hours (Dual SIM, 4G)
- Battery: 1450 mAh (Removable)
- Battery Life: Talk time up to 9 hours
US Exclusive Version:
- Talk Time:
- 2G: Up to 7 hours
- 3G: Up to 6.3 hours
- 4G: Up to 3.8 hours (Single SIM)
- Battery: 1450 mAh (Removable)
- Battery Life: Talk time up to 7 hours (2G), 6.3 hours (3G), 3.8 hours (4G)
Connectivity
Global Version:
- Bluetooth: 5.0
- Headphone Jack: 3.5 mm
- USB Connection: USB Type-C™
- Max Network Speed: 4G
- Network Bands (GSM): Quad band
- Network Bands (LTE): 1,2,3,4,5,7,8,20,28,38,39,40,41 (120Mhz)
- Network Bands (WCDMA): B1,2,4,5,8
US Exclusive Version:
- Bluetooth: 4.2
- Headphone Jack: 3.5 mm
- USB Connection: USB Type-C™
- WiFi: WLAN IEEE 802.11 b/g/n
- Location: GPS/AGPS
- Max Network Speed: 4G
- Network Bands (GSM): 850, 900, 1800, 1900
- Network Bands (LTE): B2, B4, B5, B7, B12, B13, B17, B25, B26, B66, B71, B41 (With HPUE)
- Network Bands (WCDMA): 2, 4, 5
The HMD Barbie Phone Global version features newer Bluetooth 5.0 technology, which offers faster speeds and more reliable connections than Bluetooth 4.2 in the US version. The US version, however, comes with additional features like WiFi and GPS/AGPS, which are absent in the Global version, making it more versatile in terms of connectivity.
Memory and Storage
Global Version:
- Internal Storage: 128 MB
- RAM: 64 MB
- MicroSD Card Support: Up to 32 GB
US Exclusive Version:
- Internal Storage: 4 GB
- RAM: 512 MB
- MicroSD Card Support: Up to 32 GB
Comparison: The HMD Barbie Phone US Exclusive version offers significantly more internal storage (4 GB) and RAM (512 MB) compared to the Global version’s 128 MB storage and 64 MB RAM.
Processor and Operating System
Global Version:
- CPU: Unisoc T107
- Operating System: S30+
- Special Features: Barbie-themed user interface, Easter eggs, Malibu Snake, Digital balance tips, Barbie meditation
US Exclusive Version:
- CPU: Qualcomm® 215 Mobile Platform
- Operating System: KaiOS 3.1
Comparison: The Global version runs on the Unisoc T107 processor with the S30+ operating system, featuring Barbie-themed customizations. In contrast, the US version is powered by the Qualcomm 215 Mobile Platform and runs on KaiOS 3.1, which supports more advanced features and applications, reflecting the US market’s preference for a more functional and connected device.
In the Box
Both Versions:
- Two extra back covers
- Stickers and gem stickers
- Beaded lanyard and attachable charms
- Cleaning cloth
- Removable Battery
Global Version:
- Additional: USB Type-C™ Cable, Quick Start Guide
US Exclusive Version:
- Additional: Charger, Quick Start Guide
Comparison: The packaging contents are quite similar, with both versions offering a range of accessories that align with the Barbie theme. However, the US version includes a charger, which is notably absent in the Global version, potentially due to different market expectations.
HMD Barbie Flip Phone’s Global version offers a longer talk time of up to 9 hours on 4G, while the US version has a varied battery life depending on the network used, with a maximum of 7 hours on 2G. This suggests that the Global version may be better suited for markets where extended 4G talk time is a priority.
HMD Barbie Phone Global Version Pricing
- Price: The Global version is priced at approximately £99 in the UK and €129 in the European Union.
US Exclusive Version Pricing
- Price: The US Exclusive version is set to retail for $129.
- Availability: This version will be available for pre-order starting September 23, 2024, and will officially launch in the US on October 1, 2024.
In conclusion, the HMD Barbie Phone offers a nostalgic twist on modern flip phones, with its Global version closely based on the Nokia 2660 Flip and the US Exclusive version on the Nokia 2780 Flip. The Global version retains the core specifications of the Nokia 2660, such as its display and camera, while adding a USB Type-C port and a Barbie-themed user interface to create a unique experience.
On the other hand, the US Exclusive version enhances the Nokia 2780 Flip’s features with 4GB of storage, a 5 MP camera, and additional Barbie-themed accessories like a hang holder on the flip bar, all wrapped in a new KaiOS-powered interface.
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