This new HMD phone isn’t even called an HMD phone

HMD Global has launched a new smartphone and it’s plainly called the M-Kopa X30 — no sign of HMD in the branding, though you do get an HMD logo embellished on the back. This new device is a special collaboration with the Kenyan fintech firm M-Kopa.

The whole programme is designed to get modern smartphones into more hands in African markets, starting with Kenya and South Africa. HMD provides the hardware and software expertise. M-Kopa handles the distribution and a clever “pay-as-you-go” financing model. This setup allows users to get the phone without a huge upfront cost.

Meet the M-Kopa X30

The phone is also a gateway to a bigger system. The M-Kopa X30 is strictly locked to the user’s registered SIM card. If you try to swap the SIM, the phone locks itself down.

The phone also plugs users directly into M-Kopa’s ecosystem. Owners can access digital loans, which helps build their credit. They also receive a year of hospital cash health cover, device protection for screen repairs or theft, and even free data bundles.

The phone itself is decent. It runs Android 15 with some HMD AI tweaks. Inside, it has a Unisoc T615 chip, a healthy 6GB of RAM that can virtually expand up to 10GB, and 256GB of storage. The display is a large 6.72-inch Full HD+ panel at 2400×1080 resolution, though it is a standard 60Hz refresh rate. It even has an IP52 rating for dust and splash resistance.

ALSO READ: HMD Vibe 5G launches with a fast display and Android 15

Power comes from a 5,000mAh battery. It supports 20W charging, but HMD only puts a 10W charger in the box. At least it has a 3.5mm headphone jack.

As for photography, the main rear camera is a 50MP sensor with OIS, paired with an 8MP ultra-wide. The front camera is the real story, packing a 50MP sensor. HMD added a ton of AI camera tricks. You can snap a photo by blinking, making a peace sign, or even sticking your tongue out.

Just do not go looking for this phone in India. The M-Kopa X30 is exclusive to its Kenyan and South African programme. In India, a similar “pay-as-you-go” model, bundling device financing with fintech perks like small loans, health cover, and device protection could be an attractive proposition, too – especially if it all results in a lower handset price.