HMD Global, the company that revived the Nokia brand, has announced a new partnership with Mattel, the maker of Barbie, to launch a Barbie Flip Phone this summer. The phone, which will be available in a hot pink colour with a dash of sparkle, is inspired by the world’s most famous doll and the blockbuster movie that was released last year. The phone will be a feature phone, not a smartphone, with buttons instead of a touch screen. HMD says the phone is designed for style, nostalgia and a much-needed digital detox.
The Barbie Flip Phone was revealed at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, the biggest tech show in Europe. HMD did not share any details on the price and availability of the phone, but said it will unveil the device at MWC later this week. The phone is expected to appeal to fans of Barbie, as well as those who miss the simplicity and elegance of flip phones.
The flip phone craze: A blast from the past
Flip phones, also known as clamshell phones, were popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, before smartphones took over the market. They were known for their compact and stylish design, as well as their satisfying snap when opened and closed. Some of the most iconic flip phones include the Motorola Razr, the Samsung SGH-E700, and the LG Chocolate.
Flip phones have seen a resurgence in recent years, as some consumers look for alternatives to the ubiquitous and expensive smartphones. Some of the reasons for the flip phone comeback include longer battery life, less distraction, more privacy, and retro appeal. Some celebrities, such as Kim Kardashian, Anna Wintour, and Daniel Day-Lewis, have been spotted using flip phones.
Some phone makers have also tried to combine the flip phone form factor with the smartphone functionality, creating foldable phones. These devices have flexible screens that can fold in half, offering a larger display when opened and a smaller one when closed. Some examples of foldable phones include the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, the Motorola Razr 5G, and the Huawei Mate X.
The Barbie phenomenon: A cultural icon
Barbie, the fashion doll created by Ruth Handler in 1959, is one of the most successful and influential toys of all time. Barbie has been a role model for girls and women, as well as a source of controversy and criticism, for over six decades. Barbie has had over 200 careers, from astronaut to president, and has been featured in movies, books, games, and merchandise. Barbie has also been a symbol of beauty, femininity, and empowerment.
Barbie reached new heights of popularity last year, when the live-action movie Barbie was released, starring Margot Robbie as the titular character. The movie, which was a critical and commercial hit, portrayed Barbie as a smart, funny, and adventurous woman who challenges the stereotypes and expectations of her society. The movie also featured a diverse cast of characters, including Ken, Barbie’s love interest, played by Michael B. Jordan, and Skipper, Barbie’s sister, played by Zendaya.
The Barbie Flip Phone is the latest product to capitalize on the Barbie craze, following the success of the movie and the increased demand for Barbie dolls and accessories. The phone is expected to be a hot item for the summer, especially for those who grew up with Barbie and want to relive their childhood memories.
