HMD is back in the entry-level segment with the Arc 2, but the biggest message is not a major leap in hardware. The phone feels more like a light refresh of the original Arc, with new color options and a slightly more modern chipset.
For buyers who only need a low-cost phone for basic tasks, even small changes can matter. Still, HMD is clearly not trying to reinvent the Arc formula with this model.
The core experience stays familiar
The Arc 2 keeps an IPS LCD panel measuring 6.52 inches with HD+ resolution and a 60Hz refresh rate. On the software side, it runs Android 14 Go Edition, the lightweight version of Android designed for devices with limited hardware resources.
| Section | HMD Arc 2 | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Display | 6.52-inch IPS LCD | HD+; 60Hz |
| Chipset | Unisoc T603 | 12nm; up to 1.8GHz |
| RAM / Storage | 4GB / 64GB or 128GB | microSD slot available |
| Rear / Front Camera | 13MP / 5MP | Selfie camera in a waterdrop notch |
| Battery / Charging | 5,000mAh / 10W | USB-C and 3.5mm jack included |
The main change is the chipset, not the design
The most noticeable update comes under the hood. HMD replaces the Unisoc SC9863A from the first Arc with the Unisoc T603, but the chip still sits firmly in the entry-level class and uses a 12nm process.
The processor runs at up to 1.8GHz and is paired with 4GB of RAM. Storage comes in 64GB and 128GB versions, and HMD still includes a microSD slot for users who need more room.
According to the launch information from gizmochina.com, the design changes are minimal compared with the previous generation. The emphasis is on refreshed colors rather than a major shift in body shape or visual identity.
Camera, battery, and other details remain unchanged
At the back, the Arc 2 still relies on a 13MP main camera, matching its predecessor. Up front, there is a 5MP selfie camera placed inside a waterdrop-style notch.
Power comes from a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging support. The phone also keeps the USB-C port and the 3.5mm headphone jack, two features that are becoming less common in some budget phones.
Colors, pricing, and availability
The Arc 2 will be offered in Dark Blue and Golden Beige. HMD plans to launch it in Thailand on 20 July with two memory configurations.
The 4GB + 64GB version is priced at THB 2,290, while the 4GB + 128GB variant costs THB 2,990. HMD has not yet said whether the Arc 2 will be sold in other markets.
With this approach, the Arc 2 is clearly aimed at users who want something simple, affordable, and functional. The upgrade is modest, but it is enough to keep HMD present in the entry-level smartphone segment.