Nokia Will Assemble Its Smartphones In Europe

What if your next smartphone proudly displayed “made in Europe” instead of “made in Asia”? The likelihood of this happening tomorrow is slim, but manufacturers are thinking about it more and more. HMD Global, the company behind Nokia smartphones, wants to bet on this and announces the production of 5G smartphones on the Old Continent. It is the first major global smartphone maker to make this choice and claim the status of “largest European smartphone maker”. A small communication stunt for the company that has announced its intention to release smartphones under its own brand, but not only.

Since the Covid-19 crisis, relocation projects are no longer taboo. Several elements are driving this type of initiative, starting with the explosion in logistics costs and the strict lockdown restrictions in China. The pandemic has also opened Europe’s eyes to its extreme dependence on Asia, particularly in the manufacture of electronic products.

At HMD Global we are talking about a major new stage of development. The Nokia XR21 is the first model to benefit from this new regulation and this model is now available for businesses to purchase. The manufacturer points to the general growth potential of smartphones in Europe, citing figures from Canalys. The research company predicts growth of 7% in 2024.

A Nokia XR21 “Made in Hungary”

If the intentions are laudable, HMD Global plays with the word by recalling “the production of 5G smartphones in Europe”. In reality, his XR21 opens an assembly line in Europe. The Nokia website also confirms the existence of the Nokia XR21 Limited Edition “assembled in Europe”. A total of 50 limited edition smartphones were produced, of which only 30 will be released. These models are marked “Made in Europe” and feature the exclusive Frosted Platinum color. An engraving indicates their unique serial number and they come with a certificate of origin in the box.

According to TechCrunch and Portal, HMD Global manufactures its European smartphones in Hungary. A spokesperson states that he cannot say where exactly this factory is located, but assures that HMD Global plans to open more locations in Europe. The smartphone has the same technical characteristics as the Nokia XR21 presented last May. As a reminder, this smartphone is inspired by the spirit of the 3310 by focusing on robustness and having mid-range characteristics.

Price and availability

The Nokia XR21 Limited Edition in an exclusive Frosted Platinum version is available in France from 699 euros. It is also available for sale in several other European countries.

HMD Global tells us that a Nokia XR21 European Edition in black will also see the light of day. It is issued in France at a price of 649 euros.