The HMD Terra M was announced many months back and it’s available ,sparingly in many market, but HMD is planning for expansion for this unique device . I had the opportunity to talk with Mr Naufel Dekli, the person in charge of Product Development at HMD Secure to understand the device further. Do we need a Nokia 800T reboot?
HMD Terra M
Completely developed by HMD Secure, the Terra M is one of the 2 devices currently under their portfolios, the other being the Ivalo XE that was teased late 2025, but yet to make it’s debut,but more on this later.
The primary focus for HMD Terra M is to build a totally secure device ,outside of any pre-existing ecosystem that may affect your privacy. It was initially focused purely for Enterprise use ,but with many showing interest for the device ,the HMD Terra M is also available for consumers to purchase.
Operating System
Pulse OS is the name of the software powering up the device , based on AOSP Android 14. It will be getting Android 15 ,but more importantly,it will receive Security Updates for 5 years. The software support is totally in house and Enterprise can even decide on the timing of the update as per their work environment.
Is it locked? Well, the short answer is yes and no. It does run on Android, and you won’t be able to sideload Android Apps EXCEPT for 2 special apps(more on this in my review video). If you are getting the device via Enterprise, the company can deploy the necessary apps via MDM and if you are consumer you can also get the apps via third party MDM providers including Microsoft.
So, how is this different than the current feature phones or even the Kai OS based Nokia 800T? This is a fully secured, rugged device which is actually a smartphone but tuned down intentionally and you can experience the smarter aspect via MDM app deployment as per your need! In fact,the only data that is shared is the first time activation of the device which is sent to the server in Finland. All all other data remains in the device except for those shared via the browser.
The device targets a specific group of people. Those that needs rugged ,durable device, with all day battery life, large keypad for typing,and one that can survive the harshest condition at work.
It is also the first candybar designed “Smarter Phone” with eSIM support. The 2510mAh battery is plenty of juice for such a device easily outlasting smarter phone used for similar purposes. The stackable charging cradle allows up to 10 device to be charged via a single cable through the pogo pin connection.
It has 2 important buttons that are handy. SOS and PTT. The 8MP camera with F2.0 aperture with AutoFocus allow sharp images captured for work purposes. It also has a white and red LED light. The RED LED flash preserves more details in low light situation without blowing up the scene.
You can catch my review on the device here:
The HMD Terra M is an Enterprise device which is also available for consumers who want a secure ,rugged device. The device is thoughtfully built to outlast the harshest conditions at work, not just in it’s built quality ,but also in battery life. Android apps can be installed via MDM even for the general consumers if they need it.
A rugged ,durable candybar smartphone is definitely an interesting device. The Terra M is slated for release for the Indian,Bangladesh and MEA markets in future.
The Terra M redifines the Nokia 3310 ,providing an ultra rugged smartphone ,with excellent durability and long battery life,while providing the highest security possible for both Enterprise and Consumers.
The Ivalo XE, the other phone under HMD Secure unfortunately would not be released for consumers. It is on track for Q1 2027 release. And the delay is due to the strictest protocol applied for such a device to be use for military purposes. But the good news is a lighter version of the Ivalo XE is in the drawing board. I’m certainly looking forward for such a device for consumers.
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