Nokia Launches 4G Feature Phones With UPI Payments In India

Nokia, the iconic phone brand operated by HMD Global, has unveiled two new feature phones in India that support 4G connectivity and UPI payments. The Nokia 105 and 106 4G are the first feature phones to offer UPI 123PAY functionality, which allows users to make digital transactions securely and conveniently.

UPI 123PAY is a service developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), that enables instant money transfers between bank accounts using a virtual payment address (VPA). Users can create their own VPA on their feature phones and link it to their bank account. They can then use their VPA to send and receive money from any UPI-enabled app or platform.

The Nokia 105 and 106 4G also come with other features that make them attractive for the Indian market, such as long battery life, durable design, FM radio, torchlight, and wireless FM. The phones are priced at Rs. 1,299 and Rs. 2,199, respectively, and will be available in select retail outlets and on online platforms.

HMD Global claims that the launch of these feature phones will help bridge the digital divide and enable financial inclusion for millions of Indians who still rely on cash transactions. According to Statista, India had the largest market share of feature phones in the world in 2022, with 26 percent of the total shipments. However, the number of feature phones in India is expected to decline from 95 million units in 2022 to 55 million units in 2026, as more users switch to smartphones.

Ravi Kunwar, VP-India & APAC, HMD Global, said, “We are excited to launch the market-leading feature phones, Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 4G, which are more relevant than ever with the introduction of the UPI feature. Through the introduction of the UPI feature in our feature phones, we aim to empower feature phone users with the ability to perform secure, convenient digital transactions with ease and move ahead with the times. By bringing UPI to our beloved feature phones, the Nokia 105 and Nokia 106 4G, we strive to bridge the digital divide and enable financial access for all.”

Praveena Rai, Chief Operating Officer, NPCI, said, "We are excited to associate with HMD Global in bringing UPI 123PAY functionality to Nokia feature phones. This partnership allows us to extend the convenience and accessibility of UPI to more users, enabling secure and seamless digital transactions on affordable devices."

Nokia is also developing new feature phones that will have cameras built-in that will enable UPI payments via scanning QR codes, as the 105 and 106 4G don't support this feature.