Nokia licensee HMD Global is the first major smartphone firm to produce handsets in Europe, with its first 5G model built in Hungary, focused on data security-conscious clients, now available.
“We are thrilled to be manufacturing the Nokia XR21, our signature rugged 5G smartphone, in Europe,” said Jean-Francois Baril on Tuesday.
“We invest in security, technology, and manufacturing to make our devices safer and last longer.”
Apple and Samsung manufacture their phones in Asia to save money. Therefore, Europe had no large-scale smartphone manufacturing when HMD started its Hungarian facilities.
HMD claimed the first European model was for commercial clients who wanted greater security with their IT security partners.
Since 2019, the corporation has stored and processed consumer and corporate data from all cell phones in Finland.
In 2016, the firm secured a 10-year exclusive license arrangement with Nokia Oyj (NOKIA.HE) to develop Nokia-branded smartphones and tablets. In March, it said it will manufacture in the EU, boosting the semiconductor industry.
The manufacturer claimed the Nokia XR21 European variant costs 649 euros or 549 pounds.
The business claimed its website will sell a limited edition of 30 frosted platinum devices from the European production line for 699 euros or 599 pounds.