HMD Fusion Review: Reviving the Modular Smartphone Dream

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HMD Fusion modular design with detachable components for repairability and upgrades.

The HMD Fusion is here, boldly stepping into the spotlight as a customizable smartphone that embraces modularity in a way we haven’t seen in years. With interchangeable “outfits”—a term HMD has coined for its swappable modules—the Fusion allows users to tweak and upgrade their device’s look and functionality effortlessly. Whether it’s a flashy design or practical enhancements, this phone promises to cater to your every whim.

Modular smartphones aren’t a new concept; brands like Fairphone and Shiftphone have carved a niche in the sustainable market. However, the Fusion takes inspiration from the Moto Z and Moto Mods era, reimagining modularity with a modern twist. Unlike its predecessors, HMD aims to make modularity mainstream, giving users an exciting level of control over their device.

In this review, we’ll unbox the Fusion, explore its unique features, and analyze whether it truly delivers on its promise. Can HMD succeed where others have struggled and give modular phones the revival they desperately need? Or will it falter like the Moto Mods before it? Let’s dive in and find out if the HMD Fusion is the customizable smartphone we’ve all been waiting for.

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What’s in the Box?

Unboxing the HMD Fusion is a satisfying experience, with the hefty package giving a solid first impression. Alongside the smartphone itself, here’s what you’ll find tucked inside:

  • A USB-C cable for charging and data transfer.
  • A SIM ejector pin to make swapping SIMs a breeze.
  • A Quick Start Guide to help you get up and running.
  • A QR code, directing you to more information about the Fusion’s customizable “outfits.”

Unfortunately, there’s no power adapter included, which has become standard practice these days. However, HMD does include a protective “condom” case pre-installed on the phone. This slim case offers a decent layer of protection, and it feels sturdy enough to shield your Fusion from everyday mishaps.

It’s a straightforward package with just the essentials, but the inclusion of the case adds a practical touch for those who want instant device protection right out of the box.

Exploring the “Outfits” – Modular Add-Ons for the HMD Fusion

The HMD Fusion might be a hefty device, but its modular functionality is where the real magic lies. In addition to the standard transparent case, HMD offers a range of colorful cases and modular “outfits” to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of the device. Let’s dive into what these outfits bring to the table.

The Flashy Outfit

One of the first modular add-ons for the Fusion is the aptly named “Flashy Outfit.” This chunky attachment adds a pop-up ring light to the back of the phone, transforming it into a dream device for selfie enthusiasts and vloggers.

Once the Flashy Outfit is snapped on, the camera app gets a new “Flashy” button that activates the ring light. With a quick tap, you can illuminate your selfies with a vibrant glow. Need to tweak the lighting? A dedicated settings button lets you adjust the brightness and even select custom colors to suit your mood or environment. Whether you’re enhancing your selfies or using the rear camera, this outfit takes lighting control to the next level.

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Unfortunately, the ring light is only functional within the camera app. Using it as a standalone torch isn’t an option—the torch defaults to the standard camera flash. Still, for content creators, the Flashy Outfit is an exciting addition that amplifies the Fusion’s appeal.

More Outfits on the Horizon

HMD has also teased several other modular outfits that are expected to arrive before the end of 2024:

  • Rugged Outfit: Boosts the phone’s IP rating from 54 to 68, making it fully submersible in water. It also enhances durability to survive drops and includes an SOS button for emergencies.
  • Battery Boosted Outfit: Adds extra battery capacity to extend the Fusion’s runtime, perfect for power users.
  • Gaming Controller Outfit: Converts the Fusion into a gaming device with Switch-style buttons, ideal for Call of Duty, PUBG, and other titles.
  • Third-Party Outfits: Thanks to the Fusion’s open-source system, third-party developers are expected to release even more outfits, offering creative and practical solutions for various use cases.

Verdict on Modular Add-Ons

The HMD Fusion’s modularity provides a fresh and customizable experience. While the current options like the Flashy Outfit are intriguing, the upcoming outfits hold even more promise. Whether you’re a selfie fanatic, an adventure seeker, or a gaming enthusiast, the Fusion’s outfits ensure there’s something for everyone. It’s a bold and innovative step forward in smartphone customization, making the Fusion an exciting choice for tech enthusiasts.

Design and Build Quality

The HMD Fusion stands out not just for its modular capabilities but also for its unique design, which screams industrial chic. Priced at $177.99, this phone offers an intriguing combination of functionality and aesthetic that sets it apart.

When stripped of its pre-installed transparent “condom” case, the Fusion reveals an exposed battery, visible screws, and smart pins at the bottom, which facilitate communication with its modular “outfits.” This semi-constructed look evokes a futuristic vibe, something akin to a dapper RoboCop. It’s a bold design choice that might not appeal to everyone but undeniably gives the Fusion a character of its own.

One of the Fusion’s most practical features is its modularity. You can replace key components, such as the battery, without needing a professional repair service. With a few tools and a bit of patience, you can order replacement parts from iFixit and swap them out yourself. This is a refreshing nod to sustainability and a stark contrast to the increasingly sealed designs of modern smartphones.

That said, the process isn’t without its challenges. The screws holding the components together are tiny, so if your eyesight isn’t great or your hands aren’t the steadiest, you might struggle a bit. Still, the effort is worth it for those who appreciate a user-serviceable device.

While the naked design is eye-catching, most users will likely keep the transparent case on for added protection. However, this case does add a bit of bulk to an already hefty phone, making the Fusion feel quite substantial in hand.

 

Display & Audio: A Mixed Bag for Budget Seekers

The 6.56-inch display on the HMD Fusion offers a viewing experience that aligns with its budget-friendly nature. While it has its fair share of limitations, it’s not without a few redeeming qualities.

Display Details

The screen is an IPS panel, a rarity in recent smartphones, especially as many budget devices have transitioned to OLED technology. Its resolution is HD+ (1612 x 720), which feels like a step back considering even lower-cost devices often come with Full HD displays.

Visual customization is basic: you can tweak the color temperature and enable Night Light for evening use, but advanced options like vivid color enhancement are missing. Colors are serviceable—neither overly punchy nor completely dull. Brightness maxes out at a decent level, allowing the screen to remain legible outdoors, though it’s worth noting that this was tested in the UK’s overcast November weather, not under direct sunlight.

The 90Hz refresh rate adds some fluidity to scrolling and general use, but the experience isn’t as smooth as expected, likely due to performance constraints (more on that later).

Audio Performance

Audio is where the HMD Fusion shows its budget nature even more. The phone relies on a single bottom-firing mono speaker. For casual use, like watching YouTube or listening to podcasts, it gets the job done, but the sound quality leaves much to be desired.

  • Volume: At max settings, the speaker struggles to rise above moderate background noise, making it less practical for noisy environments.
  • Clarity: The audio is thin and lacks richness, so don’t expect much in terms of bass or immersive sound.

One pleasant surprise, however, is the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack—a feature that’s becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones. With AptX Adaptive support, you’ll get decent audio performance over wired or compatible Bluetooth headphones, making it a better choice for private listening sessions.

The HMD Fusion’s display and audio won’t wow you, but they’re passable for everyday use. The IPS panel and mono speaker show their budget roots, but the inclusion of a headphone jack and 90Hz refresh rate add a touch of practicality. While these features might not win over audiophiles or display enthusiasts, they’re enough to meet the needs of casual users on a budget.

Features: A Mixed Bag of Practicality and Limitations

The HMD Fusion offers a range of features that straddle the line between basic functionality and user convenience, but it’s not without its shortcomings.

Biometrics

The edge-mounted power button doubles as a fingerprint sensor, which is both practical and efficient. In my limited time with the Fusion, it proved to be responsive and reliable. For added convenience, the phone also supports Face Unlock for those moments when your hands are greasy or grimy.

Software

The Fusion runs a near-stock version of Android, which is generally clean and easy to use. However, HMD has loaded the phone with bloatware, including apps like Booking.com, ExpressVPN, and some less familiar offerings like Kindred. While some apps can be easily uninstalled, others are harder to remove, which may frustrate users looking for a clean slate.

The HMD-exclusive My Device app offers mixed utility. While it does include user guides and diagnostic tools to check your phone’s health, it also serves as a portal for buying more HMD products.

Android Updates

Disappointingly, the Fusion is only promised two OS updates, meaning it will max out with Android 16 (expected in 2026). For a phone designed to last with replaceable parts and modular functionality, this limited update schedule feels restrictive. On the bright side, security updates are guaranteed for three years, though they drop from monthly to quarterly in the final year.

Connectivity and Extras

The Fusion doesn’t skimp on essential features:

  • NFC is included for contactless payments, which is always a welcome addition.
  • The phone offers full eSIM support alongside traditional SIM card slots, catering to a wider range of users.
  • Expandable storage via microSD cards complements the base options of 128GB or 256GB, ensuring ample space for your files and media.

Aesthetic Quirks

HMD’s preloaded wallpapers leave much to be desired. The default option looks like a “melted joypad wearing a bucket hat,” and the rest aren’t much better. Luckily, you can personalize it with your own wallpapers—anime fans, rejoice!

While the HMD Fusion gets the basics right with its biometric security, NFC, and expandable storage, the bloatware and limited software updates undermine its longevity-focused design. Still, the inclusion of microSD support and eSIM functionality makes it a practical choice for budget-conscious users.

 

Performance & Gaming: Functional, But Far From Powerful

The HMD Fusion’s performance leaves no doubt about its budget roots. Under the hood, it packs a Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 chipset, paired with up to 8GB of RAM (though the review model tested here has 6GB).

In day-to-day tasks, the Fusion performs adequately, handling essentials like web browsing, social media, and lightweight apps without significant hiccups. However, it’s not built for power users or gamers seeking a premium experience.

When it comes to gaming, the Fusion shows its limitations. Titles like Call of Duty Mobile and PUBG are playable but only at lower graphics settings, where frame rates remain reasonably stable. Push the graphics higher, and you’ll encounter lag and stutters. For more demanding games, like Genshin Impact, the Fusion struggles to keep up.

Casual games, however, run smoothly. If your gaming habits lean more toward Wordle or other light puzzles, the Fusion will deliver an effortless experience—a welcome relief for casual players.

Ultimately, the HMD Fusion’s performance is geared toward basic everyday use and light gaming, but power-hungry tasks and graphically intense games highlight its budget constraints. If you’re an avid gamer, this may not be the phone for you.

Battery Life

The HMD Fusion truly shines when it comes to battery life. With a robust 5,000mAh battery, this device is built to last. The efficient Snapdragon chipset and basic HD screen work together to ensure minimal power drain. Even with regular camera use, the Fusion easily gets through a full day.

For light users, it can stretch to an entire weekend without breaking a sweat. When it’s finally time to recharge, the 33W wired charging support isn’t the fastest, but it gets the job done respectably. Compared to some rivals like the Pixel 8, the Fusion holds its ground well, delivering a worry-free experience.

Cameras

The HMD Fusion sports a dual-lens camera setup that’s designed to cover the basics. At the core is a 108MP main sensor paired with a simple depth sensor, but don’t expect anything fancy like an ultra-wide or telephoto lens here. The camera app is intuitive, offering HDR mode, AI portrait options, and a handful of other settings. For those who like to experiment, the high-res mode lets you capture images at the full 108MP resolution.

The dedicated portrait mode produces decent bokeh effects, while the night mode tries its best to brighten dim scenes. There’s also a pro mode for photography enthusiasts, giving control over EV levels, white balance, shutter speed, and more. However, in auto mode, the performance is a mixed bag. During my test shots around the house, the results were adequate in well-lit conditions but struggled in low light or scenes with strong contrast, where details were often lost.

Up front, the Fusion boasts a 50MP selfie camera. It’s capable of delivering sharp and vibrant shots, especially when paired with a glow ring for enhanced lighting. Even without one, selfies turn out well enough for most users. While the camera hardware isn’t groundbreaking, it’s versatile and serviceable for casual photography, though it’s not the best option if you frequently shoot in challenging lighting conditions.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks—the fresh and intriguing HMD Fusion modular smartphone. While it’s not without its flaws, such as the budget-tier display, mediocre speakers, basic camera tech, and limited performance, it brings some compelling qualities to the table.

The HMD Fusion is perfect for users seeking a straightforward, everyday device with standout battery life and a clean stock Android experience. The real allure, however, lies in its modular nature, which opens up exciting possibilities for future upgrades and repairability. It will be fascinating to see how HMD develops this concept and whether they can succeed where others, like Motorola, have faltered.

While it may not win over power users or photography enthusiasts, the Fusion has its charm for those valuing longevity, simplicity, and innovation. If you’re curious about a more sustainable smartphone approach, the HMD Fusion is worth a look.

That’s this tired Northerner’s take, but I’d love to hear your thoughts on the HMD Fusion. Drop your opinions in the comments below!

       <<BUY HDM Fusion here>>        


Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is the battery life of the HMD Fusion smartphone?

The HMD Fusion boasts a 5,000mAh battery, lasting a full day with heavy use and up to a weekend for light users. It supports 33W wired charging.

2. Does the HMD Fusion have a good camera?

The Fusion’s camera is basic, featuring a 108MP main sensor and a 50MP selfie shooter. It’s decent for casual shots but struggles in low light.

3. What are the standout features of the HMD Fusion?

The HMD Fusion shines with its modular design, excellent battery life, stock Android experience, and a focus on repairability and upgradeability.

4. Is the HMD Fusion good for gaming or heavy tasks?

The Fusion’s performance is average, making it better suited for everyday tasks rather than gaming or intensive applications.

5. What makes the HMD Fusion unique?

Its modular approach allows for potential upgrades and easier repairs, offering a sustainable and customizable smartphone experience.

       <<BUY HDM Fusion here>>        


 

Abdel
Abdel Editor at Superfashion.us. I've been writing about the tech industry for many years and my favorite topics to cover include Big Tech, media, and gaming.

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