HMD Fusion: Here’s something you don’t see every day: a smartphone that genuinely tries to be different. The HMD Fusion isn’t just another incremental upgrade with slightly better cameras – it’s a bold experiment in modularity that somehow manages to feel both nostalgic and futuristic at the same time.

The Smart Outfit Revolution

What makes the HMD Fusion special are those six little pogo pins on the back. They might look unremarkable, but they’re the gateway to what HMD calls “Smart Outfits” – modular accessories that actually change how your phone works. This isn’t just about swapping cases for different colors; we’re talking about fundamentally transforming your device’s capabilities.

The Gaming Outfit turns your phone into a handheld console with dual joysticks, D-pad, shoulder buttons, and even its own headphone jack. I’ve tried it with Asphalt 8, and honestly, the experience is surprisingly solid. No lag, responsive controls, and that satisfying tactile feedback you just can’t get from touchscreen gaming. Sure, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 isn’t going to run the latest AAA titles, but for casual gaming and retro emulation, it’s perfectly adequate.

Then there’s the Flashy Outfit with its flip-up RGB ring light. Initially, I thought this would be pure gimmick territory, but it’s actually quite clever. The light draws power directly from the phone through those pins, integrates seamlessly with the camera app, and offers different colors and brightness levels. While the effect is subtle in daylight, it genuinely helps with low-light selfies and video calls.

The Repairable Philosophy

Beyond the modular accessories, HMD has partnered with iFixit to make this one of the most repairable phones you can buy. Screen replacement doesn’t require a PhD in engineering – you literally pop it open, swap parts, and put it back together. With repair manuals and parts guaranteed until 2032, this phone is designed to last in ways that modern smartphones simply aren’t.

The transparent case that comes in the box isn’t just about showing off the internal components – it’s a statement. This is a phone that’s proud of its repairable, modular nature. The industrial aesthetic with those visible screws and connection points gives it character that’s completely absent from today’s glass-and-metal monotony.

The Performance Reality Check

Let’s be honest about what you’re getting for ₹18,999. The 6.56-inch HD+ display with 90Hz refresh rate is decent but not spectacular. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 handles everyday tasks fine, though you’ll notice occasional stutters with heavy multitasking. The 108MP main camera and 50MP selfie camera produce respectable results for the price, particularly in good lighting.

Battery life from the 5,000mAh cell is solid, easily lasting a full day with moderate usage. The 33W fast charging isn’t the speediest around, but it gets the job done. What’s impressive is how the modular accessories don’t significantly drain the battery – HMD has clearly optimized the power management well.

The Bigger Picture

The Fusion represents something rare in today’s smartphone market – genuine innovation that serves a purpose. While other brands focus on incremental camera improvements or slightly faster processors, HMD has created something that can actually adapt to different needs throughout the day.

The open-source toolkit means enthusiastic makers can create their own accessories using 3D printers and some technical know-how. Imagine barcode scanners for retail workers, specialized medical sensors, or even custom gaming peripherals. The possibilities are genuinely exciting.

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HMD Fusion Is It Worth It?

At under ₹19,000 with complimentary Gaming and Flashy Outfits included, the HMD Fusion offers something unique in a sea of similar mid-range phones. You’re not getting flagship performance, but you are getting flexibility and repairability that no other manufacturer provides at this price point.

If you want a phone that stands out, can grow with your needs, and won’t become e-waste in two years, the HMD Fusion deserves serious consideration. Sometimes the best innovation isn’t about being the fastest or prettiest – it’s about being genuinely useful.