The HMD Arc 2 is an entry-level Android phone from HMD. It was introduced in Thailand in July 2026 and went on sale there on July 20, 2026. It replaces the original HMD Arc from December 2024 and keeps most of its hardware. HMD has not announced an official US price, and there is no word on a wider launch yet. The phone targets buyers who need the basics at a very low cost.
Design and display
The Arc 2 has a 6.52-inch IPS LCD with 576 x 1280 pixels. It refreshes at 60Hz. HMD rates the panel at 460 nits of peak brightness. A waterdrop notch at the top holds the selfie camera. The phone measures 166.4 x 76.9 x 8.95 mm and weighs 184.5 g. It comes in Dark Blue and Golden Beige. A fingerprint reader sits in the side power key, and the phone also supports face unlock.
Performance
HMD’s own spec sheet lists the Unisoc SC9863A chip, an octa-core processor built for basic tasks. However, several launch reports name the Unisoc T603 instead. The exact chip may differ by market. Either way, the phone pairs it with 4GB of RAM. Up to 4GB of storage can also work as virtual RAM. Storage starts at 64GB, and reports also mention a 128GB version in Thailand. A microSD slot accepts cards of up to 128GB.
Cameras
On the back, the Arc 2 has a 13MP main camera with autofocus and an LED flash. The front camera has 5MP. The camera app offers Portrait, Night, Pro, Panorama, Slow motion and Time Lapse modes. HMD has not shared sensor sizes or video specs.
Battery and charging
A 5,000mAh battery powers the phone. HMD claims up to 51 hours of use between charges in its own mixed-use test. Charging tops out at 10W through the USB-C port. HMD lists a charger, a USB-C cable, a clear case and a screen protector in the box.
Software and updates
The phone runs Android 14 Go Edition, a lighter version of Android for low-memory phones. HMD promises two years of quarterly security updates from the global launch date. It has not promised any Android version upgrades. Other features include FM radio, Wi-Fi 4, Bluetooth 5.2 and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The phone supports 4G LTE but not 5G, and it has no NFC.
Should you buy the HMD Arc 2?
The Arc 2 suits people who want a simple, low-cost phone for calls, messaging and light apps. It also fits as a spare phone or a first phone for a student. The large battery, headphone jack, FM radio and microSD slot are useful extras at this price. On the other hand, the HD+ screen, single 10W charging speed and Android 14 Go limit it. Buyers who play games or want long software support should look at a higher tier.
