Finnish mobile phone manufacturer HMD Global plans to start manufacturing smartphones in Europe, producing 5G models and Nokia-branded phones. This marks Europe's first large-scale smartphone manufacturing operation, following major companies like Apple and Samsung making their phones in Asia to cut costs. HMD's first European model, based in Hungary, is designed for enterprise customers. The company has previously built smartphones using Taiwanese partner Foxconn.

First Nokia phones to be made in Europe

Nokia has announced the launch of its XR21 European edition, priced at 649 euros or 549 pounds. A limited edition of 30 units in frosted platinum color will also be available for purchase on the company's website. HMD Global co-founder, chairman, and CEO Jean-Francois Baril expressed excitement about manufacturing the Nokia XR21 in Europe, stating that the company is committed to investing in security, technology, and manufacturing processes to make devices more secure and longer-lasting.

Why HMD is making Nokia phones in Europe

Nokia has introduced 5G models made in Hungary for data-sensitive customers, specifically enterprise customers. These models are designed to provide additional security in collaboration with IT security partners. Nokia already stores data in the European Union, while all smartphone data is processed in Finland since 2019. In 2016, Nokia signed a 10-year licensing agreement to make Nokia-branded smartphones and tablets.