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HMD Android 14 Released Jul 2024

HMD Skyline

7.4 / 10
Compass Score
Based on 18 critic reviews
Android 14 Operating system
6.55" Screen size
108MP Main camera
SM7435-AB Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 (4 nm) Octa-core Processor
128/256 GB Storage
4,600 mAh Battery

Verdict

Repair-friendly phone with Qi2 wireless charging, yet limited software support and boxy design.

+
What's good
+ Replaceable battery
+ Qi2 wireless charging
+ Decent 108Mp camera
+ Bright 144Hz display
+ Easy repair options
−
What's not
− Short software support
− Blocky design
− Limited performance
− Camera struggles in low light
− No charger included
By category

Key specs

What critics say

Critic consensus

Compass Score
18 reviews
weighted by credibility
Notebookcheck
Notebookcheck
7.6

“The HMD Skyline looks cool and is relatively easy to repair yourself. It offers wireless charging and fast Wi-Fi but is also quite heavy and expensive.”

PC Magazine
PC Magazine
7

“The HMD Skyline offers fast charging and allows you to replace several of its parts if they break, but its awkward design and limited support make it less compelling than some competing Android phones.”

GSMArena
GSMArena
7.8

“It's unique with its self-repair program, which allows you to replace the battery, display, and charging port on your own. It also manages to offer some sort of ingress protection in the process and an additional Custom Button. The unique looks and premium build make an even stronger case for buying it. We are also happy to see a nice 13MP ultrawide camera on board, a potent 2x zoom unit and a selfie with AF.”

TrustedReviews
TrustedReviews
6

“The HMD Skyline looks like a classic Nokia, and has the at-home repairability of some of the Nokia phones HMD has made in recent years. It has an unusually broad range of features for the money too, including metal/glass build, wireless charging and a zoom camera. Some of the basics can’t match up to its direct rivals, though: camera quality, gaming performance and ruggedisation.”

Video reviews

Watch before you decide

Reviews
HMD Skyline review
GSMArena Official
Long-term
Why the HMD Skyline Makes perfect sense in 2026!
C Butler
Long-term
HMD Skyline Review: The $500 Mistake? (3 Months Later)
Oscarmini
HMD Skyline 5G: The 5G Phone You Can Actually Repair Yourself! 🔧
EMKWAN REVIEWS
33W+4600mAh | Charging Review of HMD Skyline
ChargerLAB
HMD Skyline Android Review: Repairable, Affordable, and Just Two Problems
Anoraker
Austin Reviews the HMD Skyline: A Mid-Range POWERHOUSE!
Gear43
HMD Skyline Review | Lumia reborn as Android
Kim's Retro Archive
HMD Skyline Review: Less Than The Sum Of Its Repairable Parts
Alex Kidman
Comparisons
HMD Skyline Vs iPhone 15 Camera Test Comparison
Techy Artist
HMD SKYLINE VS NOKIA X30 : SHOULD YOU UPGRADE?
DrNokia @TheOriginal
HMD Skyline Vs iPhone 15 Camera Test Comparison
The Real Tech
HMD Skyline vs iPhone 15 Camera Test Comparison
The Tech Review
Official
How to replace the display on HMD Skyline
HMD

In Depth

Design

The HMD Skyline offers a bold design that stands out in the mid-range market. Its angular corners and vivid color options like Neon Pink and Blue Topaz create a striking appearance that may not suit everyone but definitely marks its presence.

Featuring a metal frame and glass back, the phone feels substantial in hand with a weight of 209.5g. This weight adds a sense of quality, although some might find it too hefty for pocket comfort.

Reviewers from several sources noted, “It might be polarizing, but the Skyline’s striking aesthetics set it apart,” highlighting its unique visual impact.

Display(s)

The 6.55-inch screen on the HMD Skyline promises an immersive viewing experience with its pOLED technology. Its 144Hz refresh rate keeps animations fluid, making interactions seamless whether you’re scrolling or gaming.

The screen’s durability is a plus, thanks to its polymer substrate designed for longevity. “For the price,” highlighted Tech Advisor, “the Skyline’s 6.55-inch pOLED screen is one of its best features.” However, its Gorilla Glass 3 protection feels slightly outdated, so handle with care.

The vibrant display brings colors to life. The brightness, though not the highest in its class, remains readable in most conditions, ensuring functionality even under direct sunlight.

Performance

The HMD Skyline is powered by a Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor, which provides reliable performance for daily tasks. You can expect seamless navigation when browsing, viewing content, and engaging with apps.

Although some experts noted “it isn’t a fast phone, and you may feel it in the apps” according to reviews, basic tasks like messaging, emails, and watching videos will run smoothly on this device.

Keep in mind that high-end games might experience occasional slowdowns and the phone could warm up slightly during extended gaming sessions. Still, for most everyday uses, you’ll find the phone responsive and capable.

Software & Storage

The HMD Skyline integrates a clean and uncluttered Android experience, making it easy for you to navigate your phone with minimal distractions. You won’t find unnecessary pre-installed apps here, keeping your device focused and responsive.

Unique to the Skyline is the Detox mode, designed to help you block notifications and minimize app usage, promoting a balanced approach to phone use.

Experts have highlighted, “its overall longevity is reduced by the limited software support,” receiving only two years of core updates and three years of security patches.

Cameras

With a 108MP main camera, the Skyline captures impressive shots with natural colors in good lighting. The three-lens setup includes a telephoto and ultrawide lens, offering versatility for different scenes.

Experts observe, “The Skyline punches above its weight when it comes to photography,” although it struggles in bright sunlight and low-light conditions, occasionally losing detail and sharpness.

Selfie enthusiasts will enjoy the 50MP front camera’s accuracy and vibrant outputs, making it great for social media content.

Battery

The HMD Skyline surprises with its battery life. The 4,600mAh battery allows you to use it from morning into the next day, a benefit for those who dread frequent recharges. This matches the need for reliability whether you’re at work or during leisure.

Reviewers found that “even with a heavy daily schedule managing various apps, the HMD Skyline delivers all-day stamina,” enhancing your on-the-go lifestyle without constant power concerns.

Qi2 wireless charging is its standout feature, making it the first Android to support MagSafe-style options. This innovation brings faster 15W charging speeds and compatibility with magnetic accessories—a substantial upgrade for hassle-free power management.

Audio

The HMD Skyline’s stereo speakers provide enough volume to fill a small room, yet they fall short on delivering rich, bass-heavy sound. Those who enjoy watching movies or listening to playlists during downtime might find the sound to be somewhat hollow.

Reviewers mention that while the phone’s sound can get loud, it lacks the bass presence that brings music and movies to life. Engaging in phone calls remains clear, though, maintaining a good connection and voice clarity throughout conversations, as confirmed by experts.

For the best experience in movies and games, wireless headphones will significantly enhance the sound quality, aligning with standards found in rival devices.

The Bottom Line

This device is easy to repair, making it ideal if you need a phone that lasts without replacing the whole device. It’s the first Android with Qi2 wireless charging, letting you use magnetic accessories. The Snapdragon processor handles daily tasks well, but it’s not the best for gaming. The cameras are decent in good light but struggle at night. If you prioritize repairability and easy wireless charging, this might fit your needs. For those valuing cutting-edge software updates, you might want to look elsewhere.

Common questions

What people actually want to know

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Where can I download the HMD Skyline manual?
Community

Questions & answers

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