In a smartphone world filled with pricey flagships and complex specs, the HMD Arc steps in with a refreshing promise: to deliver just what most people need, no more, no less.
It’s not trying to be flashy. Instead, it focuses on affordability, smooth user experience and the latest software optimised for budget hardware.
Let’s break down what makes the HMD Arc worth considering.
-
Clean and Simple with Android 14 (Go edition)
At its core, the HMD Arc runs on Android 14 (Go edition). This lightweight version of Android is specially built for phones with modest hardware.
It uses less memory, loads apps faster, and comes with tools to manage data efficiently. What does this mean for you? Smoother day-to-day use without the lag you’d expect from a budget phone.
You can browse, message, and stream with ease, without needing to spend on high-end hardware.
2. A Display You Can Personalise
The HMD Arc offers more than just a screen, it gives you control. You can adjust brightness, change the font size and colour, rotate the screen automatically, and even apply a screensaver. You also decide what information shows up on your lock screen.
Whether you’re reading under the sun or in a dark room, these customisations help create a comfortable viewing experience tailored to your needs.
3. Reliable Performance with RAM Boost and Storage
The phone packs 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, a solid combo for most users. But it gets even better with virtual memory support.
This means the phone can borrow an extra 2GB from its internal storage to act like RAM. So when you’re switching between apps or watching videos while replying to messages, the HMD Arc stays responsive and quick.
4. A Camera System for Everyday Creativity
For a phone in this price range, the HMD Arc’s camera setup is impressive. The 13MP rear camera is supported by multiple modes like Portrait (for depth-effect shots), Night Mode (for better low-light photos), and built-in filters for a creative touch.
On the front, there’s a 5MP camera, perfect for selfies and video calls. It’s not meant to rival a professional DSLR, but it delivers solid performance for daily use and social media.
5. Battery That Goes the Distance
If there’s one feature that truly stands out, it’s the battery life. With a 5000mAh battery, the HMD Arc can go up to 51 hours on a single charge.
That’s over two full days of normal use. And it’s not just about lasting long, the battery is built to hold at least 80% capacity after 800 full charges.
That’s roughly 2-3 years of use without noticeable battery wear. For users on the move or in areas with inconsistent power, this is a huge win.
6. A Phone You Can Fix Yourself
Another unique aspect of the HMD Arc is its repairability. Thanks to HMD’s Gen1 repairability design, users can replace parts like the battery or screen with support from iFixit, a global leader in DIY repairs.
This means you don’t have to throw away your phone if something breaks. You fix it. That’s money saved and less e-waste, making this phone a more sustainable choice.
7. Security You Can Trust
Even though it’s a budget phone, the HMD Arc doesn’t skip on security. It promises quarterly security updates for 2 years, which means your phone stays protected from digital threats.
Whether you’re shopping online, using mobile banking, or just browsing social media, these updates offer peace of mind.
8. Dual SIM for More Flexibility
For those who juggle between personal and work numbers, or want to take advantage of different network plans, the HMD Arc offers dual SIM support.
It’s a small feature that adds a lot of convenience, especially in regions where people often use more than one SIM card to manage costs and coverage.
For users who care about practicality, affordability, and sustainability, the HMD Arc makes a strong case as a smart everyday phone.
From its efficient Android Go system to its long battery life and repair-friendly design, it delivers on all the essentials, and then some.
