3 Minutes
HMD Fuse introduces system-wide AI protection for families
HMD Global has unveiled the HMD Fuse, a child-focused smartphone built around proactive safety and parental controls. The headline feature is HarmBlock+, an AI-driven protection layer powered by SafeToNet’s HarmBlock AI, designed to stop nude or explicit content from being captured by the camera or accessed on the device. Integrated at the OS level, HarmBlock+ operates across apps to deliver consistent content filtering and camera privacy.
Key product features
AI-powered content filtering
HarmBlock+ runs across the operating system and major apps, aiming to prevent inappropriate visual content from being taken or opened. This AI-based approach promises real-time intervention and reduced exposure to explicit images, a major selling point for parents seeking camera privacy and child protection features.
Parental controls and device management
The Fuse offers granular parental controls: app approval and blocking, real-time location tracking, location history, contact whitelisting, and time-management tools. These features make the device suitable for family use and parental monitoring without relying on third-party apps.
Hardware and performance
The handset is based on the HMD Fusion hardware platform, featuring a 6.56-inch HD+ display with a 90Hz refresh rate and up to 600 nits peak brightness. Under the hood sits the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 SoC paired with 6GB RAM and 128GB UFS 2.2 storage, expandable via microSD. Connectivity and sensors include Bluetooth 5.1, Wi‑Fi, NFC, GPS, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor. The phone carries an IP54 rating for splash resistance.
Cameras and battery
Photography hardware includes a 108MP primary rear camera with autofocus plus a 2MP depth sensor, while selfies and video calls use a 50MP front camera in a punch-hole cutout. The Fuse packs a 5,000 mAh battery with 33W fast charging support for extended daily use.
Comparisons and market relevance
Compared with generic kids’ phones or software-only parental control solutions, the Fuse distinguishes itself by embedding HarmBlock+ at the OS level for system-wide camera privacy. It competes with other family-oriented devices by combining hardware specs (Android 15, Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, large battery) with integrated safety features and three years of security updates, positioning it as a relevant choice for parents and guardians prioritizing digital wellbeing.
Advantages and use cases
Advantages include native AI content filtering, detailed parental controls, long battery life, and modern connectivity. Use cases range from first phones for tweens to devices for older children who need location tracking and controlled app access. Schools and family-focused services may also find the Fuse a practical option where camera and content safety are concerns.
Availability and pricing
The HMD Fuse ships with Android 15 out of the box and includes two cases (Blue Casual Outfit and Blue Flashy Outfit). It is initially available exclusively through Vodafone UK (online and retail) for a monthly price of £33 (~$44). HMD Global says the phone will roll out to Australia and other markets in the coming months.
Comments