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Key Highlights
- 6.52-inch HD+ IPS LCD Display
- 5000mAh Battery with 10W Charging
- Unisoc T603 Processor
- IP54 Dust & Splash Resistance
HMD has officially introduced the HMD Arc 2 as its latest budget smartphone, targeting users who want a reliable Android experience without spending much. While it doesn’t reinvent the entry-level segment, the device brings a refreshed chipset, Android 14 Go Edition, and a large 5000mAh battery, making it an attractive option for first-time smartphone buyers and students.
What stands out is that HMD has focused on everyday usability instead of chasing flashy specifications. Features like a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, IP54 splash resistance, USB Type-C, and a 3.5mm headphone jack make the handset practical for daily use.
At the time of writing, the phone has been announced only in Thailand. The India launch has not been announced yet
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | HMD |
| Model | HMD Arc 2 |
| Variants | 64GB, 128GB |
| Display | 6.52-inch IPS LCD, HD+ |
| Processor | Unisoc T603 |
| Camera | 13MP Rear + 5MP Selfie |
| Battery | 5000mAh |
| Charging | 10W Wired |
| OS | Android 14 Go Edition |
| Network | 2G, 3G, 4G |
| Price | THB 2,290 (Approx. ₹6,500) |
| Availability | Thailand from July 20, 2026 |
Design & Build
The design doesn’t attempt to be flashy, but it feels modern enough for the price segment. HMD offers the smartphone in Dark Blue and Golden Beige, both giving the device a clean and minimal appearance.
Interestingly, the company has also included IP54 dust and splash resistance, which isn’t something you always find in this price range. The side-mounted fingerprint scanner adds convenience, while the USB-C port keeps the phone current with modern accessories.
Although the official dimensions and weight haven’t been revealed, the overall design appears comfortable for one-handed use.
Display
The handset sports a 6.52-inch IPS LCD display with HD+ resolution and a peak brightness of 460 nits.
The display is limited to a 60Hz refresh rate, so don’t expect the buttery smooth scrolling seen on more expensive smartphones. However, for watching YouTube, browsing social media, and reading articles, the panel should be perfectly adequate.
Honestly, this display is designed more for affordability than entertainment, and that’s understandable considering the price.
Performance
Powering the smartphone is the Unisoc T603, replacing the older SC9863A found in the previous generation. It is paired with 4GB RAM and up to 128GB storage, along with microSD card support for additional expansion.
For day-to-day activities like WhatsApp, Facebook, YouTube, web browsing, and light multitasking, the processor should offer a smoother experience than its predecessor. Casual games can run, but demanding titles such as BGMI or Genshin Impact will require lower graphics settings.
This isn’t a gaming phone, but for basic daily usage, the hardware appears well-balanced.
Camera
The HMD Arc 2 features a 13MP rear camera with autofocus and an LED flash, while selfies are handled by a 5MP front camera.
In daylight, users can expect decent social media-ready photos with acceptable detail. Low-light photography, however, remains one of the compromises at this price.
Interestingly, HMD includes software features like Night Mode, Portrait Mode, Panorama, HDR, and AI image enhancements, which should help improve image quality in different situations.
Video recording is supported on both the front and rear cameras, although HMD hasn’t shared detailed recording specifications yet.
Battery & Charging
Battery life is one of the strongest aspects of this device.
The 5000mAh battery is claimed to deliver up to 51 hours of typical usage, making it suitable for users who don’t like charging every evening. HMD also states the battery is designed to retain good health over hundreds of charging cycles.
Charging is limited to 10W, so a full recharge will take some time. Still, considering the affordable pricing, that’s a reasonable trade-off.
Storage & Connectivity
Storage options include:
- 64GB + 4GB RAM
- 128GB + 4GB RAM
The storage can be expanded through a microSD card.
Connectivity features include:
- 4G LTE
- Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
- Bluetooth 5.2
- USB Type-C
- GPS
- FM Radio
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack
One thing missing is 5G connectivity, so buyers looking for future-ready network support may want to consider alternatives.
Price & Availability
The HMD Arc 2 is available in two storage variants:
- 4GB x 64GB: THB 2,290 (Approx ₹6,500)
- 4GB x 128GB: THB 2,990 (Approx ₹8,500)
Colour Options:- Dark Blue, Golden Beige
Availability: Sales begin in Thailand from July 20, 2026.
India Launch: Not announced yet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large 5000mAh battery
- Affordable pricing
- Android 14 Go Edition
- IP54 splash resistance
- USB-C and 3.5mm headphone jack
- Expandable storage
Cons
- No 5G support
- 10W charging is relatively slow
- HD+ display with 60Hz refresh rate
- Basic camera hardware
Final Verdict
The HMD Arc 2 isn’t trying to compete with mid-range smartphones, and that’s actually its biggest strength. Instead, it focuses on delivering the essentials at a price that remains accessible.
If your priorities include long battery life, clean Android software, expandable storage, and dependable everyday performance, this device looks like a sensible budget option. However, users looking for smoother displays, faster charging, or 5G connectivity may find better choices by spending a little more.
As of now, the smartphone is officially available only in Thailand, while its India launch has not been announced yet.
FAQs
Is the HMD Arc 2 launched in India?
No. HMD has announced the smartphone in Thailand, while the India launch has not been announced yet.
Does the HMD Arc 2 support 5G?
No, it supports 2G, 3G, and 4G networks only.
What processor powers the HMD Arc 2?
The smartphone is powered by the Unisoc T603 chipset.
How big is the battery?
It packs a 5000mAh battery with 10W wired charging.
What is the HMD Arc 2 price?
The phone starts at THB 2,290 (approx ₹6,500) for the 4GB + 64GB variant.
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