HMD Global has once again looked to the past to launch a phone that prioritizes simplicity and battery life. The Nokia 300 Charge , unveiled in late August 2026, revives the philosophy of the legendary Nokia 1100, but adds an unexpected feature: it can charge other devices thanks to its high-capacity battery.
This keypad phone isn't meant to compete with smartphones, but rather to offer an alternative for those looking for an emergency device, a second phone, or simply a way to disconnect from notifications. Priced at around $32, it's positioned as one of the most affordable basic phones on the market, although its availability is currently limited to the Philippines.
A tribute to the Nokia 1100
The relationship between the two devices is more conceptual than physical. While the Nokia 1100 was characterized by its non-slip casing and comfortable keyboard, the 300 Charge incorporates modern features such as a QVGA camera and the option to use it as a power bank. The essence of the Nokia brand remains present in this new model, which appeals to nostalgia without sacrificing certain modern conveniences.
Battery and reverse charging
The main attraction of the Nokia 300 Charge is its removable 3.700 mAh battery, the largest HMD has ever used in a basic phone. According to official specifications, it offers up to 40 days of standby time and 37,9 hours of talk time , although these are maximum figures and depend on usage and network coverage. The battery is replaceable, something increasingly rare in today's market.
But what truly sets it apart is its reverse charging function. A physical button on the right side activates the transfer of power to other devices via a USB-C cable. It can deliver up to 10 watts of power , enough to partially recharge a smartphone in an emergency. HMD includes a special cable with adapters for Micro USB, USB-C, and USB-A, expanding its compatibility.
This feature turns the phone into a kind of portable power bank, something unusual in this type of device. The idea is that if your main phone runs out of battery, you can use the Nokia 300 Charge as a temporary power source. It's not fast charging , but it can be vital in critical situations.
Technical Specifications
The Nokia 300 Charge features a 2,4-inch QVGA display with a resolution of 320 x 240 pixels, a physical keyboard, and a Unisoc SC6531E processor. It has 4 MB of RAM and 4 MB of internal storage, expandable up to 32 GB via microSD card. Connectivity is limited to 2G networks (GSM 900/1800), so it is not compatible with 4G or 5G. This means its use depends on the availability of these networks in each country.
It also includes a USB-C port, a 3,5 mm headphone jack, an FM radio that works without an external antenna, and an LED flashlight that, according to HMD, is four times brighter than the one in the 2023 Nokia 105. The operating system is S30+, a basic software that doesn't allow app installation but fulfills essential calling and messaging functions.
The phone weighs 138 grams and is available in green, sand, and black. Its design is compact and durable, built for rugged use. While it lacks a front-facing camera, the rear camera offers QVGA resolution, sufficient for basic photos.
Price and Availability
The Nokia 300 Charge is sold in the Philippines for 1.990 Philippine pesos, about $32 at the current exchange rate. In euros, the price would be around €30, although HMD has not confirmed an official price for Europe. There is no release date for Spain or other countries in the region, and the company has not announced any concrete expansion plans.
For those interested in importing it, it's important to note that it only works with 2G networks , so compatibility with local carriers must be checked. In Spain, for example, 2G networks are still operational, but not in all areas. Additionally, the final price could increase with taxes and shipping costs.
This device is designed as an emergency phone, a backup phone, or for those who want to disconnect from the digital world. It's not suitable for using modern apps or browsing the internet, but it perfectly fulfills its primary function: making calls and sending messages with exceptional battery life.
In short, the Nokia 300 Charge recaptures the essence of classic basic phones, but adds a modern twist with reverse charging. Its 3.700 mAh battery, improved LED flashlight, and affordable price make it an attractive option for those looking for a secondary phone or an emergency device. However, its 2G network limitation and limited availability are important factors to consider before making a purchase.
Nevertheless, HMD demonstrates that there is still a market for simple phones, and the success of the Nokia 1100 back in the day is a clear precedent. The Nokia 300 Charge isn't aiming to be a bestseller , but it does offer a real alternative for a niche of users who value durability and functionality over high-end features. We'll have to wait and see if it officially arrives in Europe, but in the meantime, those interested can get their hands on one through importers.
In short, this new HMD model is a nod to the past with modern tools. Its removable battery, reverse charging, and durability make it a reliable companion for extreme situations. If you're looking for a phone that won't distract you and will last for weeks without charging, the Nokia 300 Charge is definitely worth considering.
