The iconic Finnish company Nokia, once synonymous with mobile phones, is reportedly considering a return to the smartphone market through a new manufacturing partnership. According to GSMArena, this information comes from a post by a Nokia community manager on Reddit. The announcement comes as the company ends its collaboration with HMD Global, which had been producing Nokia-branded smartphones since 2016. This move signals a possible new chapter in Nokia’s strategy to re-establish its presence in the mobile industry.

Searching for a New Partner

On a Reddit forum dedicated to Nokia, the company’s community manager stated that Nokia is open to collaborating with a “major mobile device manufacturer” to produce smartphones under its brand. Although the post was later deleted, it sparked active discussions and caught the attention of tech media. Both GSMArena and Gizmochina noted that using social media to seek out manufacturing partners is unusual, but it may reflect Nokia’s attempt to gauge market interest.

In the past, Nokia licensed its brand not just for smartphones but also for TVs (Streamview), headphones and accessories (RichGo), and laptops (OFF Global). However, these licensing agreements have now been terminated, which analysts interpret as a shift in the company’s brand strategy. Nokia appears to be seeking a new partner capable of global-scale smartphone production at an affordable price point.

The End of the HMD Global Era

Nokia’s partnership with HMD Global, which began in 2016, marked the brand’s return to the smartphone market after a failed venture with Microsoft and the sale of its mobile division in 2014. HMD Global, based in Finland and managed by former Nokia employees, produced both smartphones (e.g., Nokia XR21, G42) and revamped classic feature phones like the iconic Nokia 3310.

However, starting in 2024, HMD began phasing out Nokia-branded devices in favor of its own branded models. HMD faced several challenges, including poor competitiveness compared to industry leaders like Apple and Samsung, and software update issues. For instance, the Nokia G60 is still running Android 14, which lags behind current industry standards. Recently, HMD also announced a scale-down of its operations in the U.S., possibly due to financial strains and declining interest in the Nokia brand. The licensing agreement between Nokia and HMD is set to expire in 2026, opening the door for Nokia to seek a new partner.

Prospects of a Comeback

Nokia’s potential return to the smartphone market is met with both interest and skepticism. The brand was once associated with durable phones and innovations like Zeiss optics and Symbian OS. However, under HMD’s management, devices like the Nokia 6 (described by GSMArena as “built like a tank”) struggled to stand out due to weak software support and mediocre specs.

Users on Reddit and X (formerly Twitter) express nostalgia for the “old Nokia,” hoping for a revival of the Lumia-style design but with modern Android and competitive performance. A new partner is likely to be a major ODM (Original Design Manufacturer), such as Foxconn or Wingtech—companies that previously produced Nokia devices and work with brands like Apple and Samsung.

Nokia could leverage its strengths, including its vast 5G patent portfolio, to create affordable smartphones with a focus on durability and sustainability—traits seen in models like the XR21 and G22. However, software will be a critical challenge. The brand would need a unique, well-optimized interface to differentiate itself from other Android phone makers.

Nokia’s Financial Position

In Q1 2025, Nokia reported an operating profit of €156 million and total net sales of €4.39 billion, reflecting a stable core business focused on telecom infrastructure and Internet of Things technologies. In 2024, the company dismissed rumors about a potential acquisition by Samsung and confirmed its independence and ongoing development plans.

These financial results suggest that Nokia has the resources to invest in new projects, including a possible re-entry into the smartphone market.

Conclusion

Nokia, the legendary mobile brand, may soon re-enter the smartphone market with a new manufacturing partner after ending its collaboration with HMD Global. Though the Reddit announcement was unofficial, it hints at the company’s intention to revive its mobile legacy, drawing on its brand reputation and 5G patents.

However, success will require more than nostalgia—it demands high-quality production, modern software, competitive hardware, and distinctive design. Given Nokia’s financial stability and ongoing community interest, a comeback in 2026 could be a major event—if the company finds the right partner to fulfill the promise of the Nokia name.