HMD Global May Revive the Nokia N95 as a Modern Slider Smartphone: Everything We Know

Leaked Design Features for the 2026 Revival

In August 2026, a leaker on X known as @smashx_60 posted that HMD is now revisiting that shelved concept . The reported design features include:

• Sliding screen mechanism: A mechanical slide that reveals hidden controls or speakers underneath, moving away from the standard slab form factor .
• Hidden controls: The slide exposes secondary functions, reviving the original N95's dual-slider utility .
• Built-in kickstand: A feature carried over from the 2020 prototype, integrated around the rear camera array .

Rumored Specifications (Based on the 2020 Prototype)

The leaked specifications are specifically those of the 2020 prototype that HMD is reportedly using as the basis. They are not necessarily the final specs of any future product .

Multiple outlets note the Snapdragon 690 is a mid-range chip, reinforcing the expectation that this would not be a flagship device .

Mid-Range Positioning

All reports agree the revived slider is expected to be positioned as a mid-range device, not a premium flagship. The pricing is described as "affordable" and "budget-friendly" — roughly estimated in Chinese reports at under ¥3,000 (around $420 USD) . The strategy appears to be to differentiate through the novel form factor rather than top-tier specs .

Key Uncertainty: No Official Confirmation

• No official announcement: HMD Global has not confirmed any slider smartphone project. Every report traces back to the same single leaker (@smashx_60) on X .
• HMD's 2025–2026 pipeline: HMD's Nokia brand license is reportedly ending in 2026, and the company has been releasing a series of final Nokia-branded phones described as a "farewell tour" . Whether a slider project fits into this winding-down phase, or would launch under HMD's own brand, is unclear.
• Past precedent: HMD has floated this concept before (in 2020) and canceled it. Skepticism is warranted until an official reveal or credible supply-chain leak appears .

Bottom line: HMD is reportedly re-evaluating a slider smartphone inspired by the canceled 2020 Nokia N95 prototype, with a sliding screen, hidden controls, kickstand, and mid-range specs. But as of August 2026, this remains an unconfirmed leak — treat it as a strong rumor, not a shipping product.