HMD appears to have added another low-cost feature phone to its lineup, although the HMD 106 Pure is not currently listed on the company’s website. A Pakistani online retailer lists the handset for PKR 3,250, equivalent to about $12, £9 or €10, before a PKR 250 delivery fee.

The phone is built for basic calling and messaging rather than modern smartphone use. Its 2G-only GSM connectivity also limits where it can be used, as some regions have already shut down their 2G networks or plan to do so.

HMD 106 Pure specifications

The HMD 106 Pure resembles the HMD 101, but the two phones are not powered by the same chipset. The newer listing names Unisoc’s 6531E as the processor. That chip is also used in the HMD 102, another basic feature phone that includes a simple camera.

There is no camera listed for the HMD 106 Pure. Instead, its hardware focuses on a small set of traditional phone features:

  • Display: QQVGA resolution, or 120 x 160 pixels
  • Software: S30+
  • Battery: 1,000mAh
  • Connectivity: 2G GSM
  • Storage expansion: microSD cards up to 32GB
  • Audio: 3.5mm headphone jack and FM radio receiver

Colors and availability

Advance Telecom, the Pakistani retailer listing the handset, shows Dark Gray and Teal Green options. Its product page also displays a blue version, although that color does not appear to have a specific name in the listing.

The retailer’s listing is the available evidence for the phone’s existence and price. HMD has not been identified as listing the HMD 106 Pure on its website, so international availability and a broader launch remain unclear.

What the 2G-only design means

The HMD 106 Pure’s low price comes with a significant compatibility trade-off. Because it uses only basic GSM connectivity, it will not work on networks that have retired 2G service. Buyers therefore need to check the status of local 2G networks before considering the phone.

For users in areas where 2G remains available, the handset offers a simple alternative to a smartphone, with features such as an FM receiver, wired headphone support and expandable storage. Its 1,000mAh battery and limited software are consistent with its role as a basic phone rather than a full-featured mobile device.