HMD Global appears to be preparing a modern revival of the Asha line, and the clearest clue so far is a certification listing for a device called “HMD TA-1779 (Type HMD Asha 305).”
That name immediately stands out because it points back to one of Nokia’s familiar budget phones from the past, but this new device does not look like a simple reissue. Instead, it points toward a more current successor with 4G LTE support.
The listing suggests HMD is trying to merge nostalgia with basic usability for today’s market. In a phone landscape dominated by smartphones, there is still room for compact devices that focus on the essentials.
A modern take on a familiar name
The original Nokia Asha 305 arrived in July 2012 as a basic touchscreen phone. It ran Nokia’s S40 operating system rather than Android and was built around simple communication needs.
By today’s standards, its hardware was modest. The phone used a 3-inch display with a 400 x 240 resolution, a 2MP camera, 32MB of RAM, and very limited storage.
Even so, the Asha 305 had a clear appeal in the entry-level segment. It was affordable, compact, had a removable battery, supported microSD expansion, and kept a headphone jack.
That is why the revival of the Asha name means more than nostalgia alone. The badge has long been associated with practical, low-cost devices built for everyday basics.
Why the new version matters
The most important detail from the certification is the indication of an LTE modem. That points to an HMD Asha 305 variant that should be far more relevant for current network use.
4G support gives a device like this a purpose beyond retro appeal. It suggests HMD is building a simple phone that can still work with modern connectivity requirements.
No full specification sheet has surfaced yet, but HMD’s recent product direction provides a useful clue about where this model may fit. A close reference point is the HMD Touch 4G, which arrived at the end of 2025 as a small touchscreen phone with a minimalist concept.
| Model | Display | Memory | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMD Touch 4G | 3.2-inch QVGA touchscreen | 64MB RAM, 128MB internal storage | Unisoc T127, dual SIM, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C, removable 1,950mAh battery, IP52 |
A likely formula for the new Asha
HMD Touch 4G uses a lightweight custom platform called “Touch” instead of full Android. It also includes a rear 2MP camera with flash, a VGA front camera, and microSD expansion.
The device is clearly designed for practical use rather than heavy smartphone tasks. HMD also gave it a removable 1,950mAh battery and a weight of around 100 grams, underlining its compact identity.
With that approach in mind, the HMD Asha 305 revival is likely to follow a similar formula. It would likely serve as a compact phone for calls, SMS, and light media use without the distractions of a full smartphone.
Why this category still has an audience
Demand for simple phones has not disappeared. Some users want a second device, while others are looking for a way to cut down on notifications and smartphone distractions.
That is where HMD appears to see an opportunity. A small phone with basic features, efficient battery use, and 4G connectivity can still find a clear market.
The strategy also fits HMD’s pattern of reviving classic Nokia-era names. Familiar branding adds emotional value, while updated network support keeps the device practical for present-day use.
Because the model has already appeared in certification, a launch may not be far away. For now, the direction is already visible: a classic-style simple phone, rebuilt for the 4G era.