HMD has officially introduced the HMD Arc 2, a new budget smartphone that succeeds the original HMD Arc, which debuted in December 2024. The new model brings modest hardware improvements while maintaining an affordable price aimed at entry-level users.

The HMD Arc 2 features a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with HD+ resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. For photography, the smartphone includes a 13MP rear camera and a 5MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.

Powering the device is the Unisoc T603 processor, the same chipset found in the Xiaomi Redmi A3x, offering reliable performance for everyday tasks such as web browsing, messaging, and media consumption.

The smartphone packs a 5,000mAh battery with 10W USB-C charging. On the software side, it runs Android 14 Go Edition, making it suitable for devices with entry-level hardware.

One of the standout features of the HMD Arc 2 is the inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack, a feature that has become increasingly rare in modern smartphones. The device also supports microSD cards, allowing users to expand the built-in storage.

HMD will offer the HMD Arc 2 in Dark Blue and Golden Beige color options. The smartphone is scheduled to go on sale in Thailand on the 20th of this month.

Pricing starts at approximately $68 for the 4GB RAM + 64GB storage model, while the 4GB + 128GB variant will be available for around $89.

Vexiora Analysis

The HMD Arc 2 reflects HMD’s continued focus on delivering affordable smartphones that prioritize practicality over premium specifications. Instead of competing with higher-end devices, the company has retained features that remain important to budget-conscious users, including a 3.5mm headphone jack, expandable microSD storage, and a large 5,000mAh battery.

Although the hardware represents only a modest upgrade over the original HMD Arc, the combination of Android 14 Go Edition and the Unisoc T603 chipset should provide a smooth experience for everyday activities such as messaging, social media, and web browsing.

With pricing starting below $70, the HMD Arc 2 is positioned as an attractive option in emerging markets, where affordability, battery life, and expandable storage often matter more than flagship-level performance. If HMD expands availability beyond Thailand, the device could become a strong competitor in the entry-level smartphone segment.