HMD has launched the Arc 2 in Thailand, the successor to its 2024 Arc budget phone. It is a quiet update, keeping most of the original intact while making a few small changes to justify the new model number.
The Arc 2 hits the market at a time when the sub-$100 Android segment is more competitive than ever. Brands like Tecno, Infinix, and Samsung all have strong entries in this price bracket, which means HMD needs every advantage it can find, even small ones. A processor upgrade and a couple of new colors might not sound like much, but for buyers on a tight budget, they can make a real difference at the point of sale.
The phone targets first-time smartphone buyers and users in emerging markets who need reliable, affordable hardware. HMD has positioned itself in recent years as a brand focused on accessible devices with long software support, and the Arc 2 fits that pattern.
On the hardware side, the Arc 2 sticks with a 6.52-inch IPS LCD screen running at HD+ resolution and 60Hz. That is the same panel as the original Arc, and it is a reasonable choice for the price point. The display is not going to impress anyone coming from a mid-range phone, but it gets the job done for everyday tasks.
The biggest change under the hood is the processor. HMD replaced the Unisoc SC9863A with the Unisoc T603, a newer chip built on a 12nm process with a top clock speed of 1.8GHz. It is still firmly entry-level, but the T603 is a step forward in efficiency. It is paired with 4GB of RAM and either 64GB or 128GB of storage, plus a microSD card slot for expansion.
The camera setup stays the same as the first Arc:
- 13MP single camera on the back
- 5MP front camera in a waterdrop notch
The Arc 2 also keeps a 5,000mAh battery with 10W wired charging, a USB-C port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. That last detail matters more than it might seem. At this price range, a headphone jack is still a practical selling point, and HMD is right to keep it.
Software runs on Android 14 Go Edition, the stripped-down version of Android designed for low-memory devices. Go Edition has improved significantly over the years, but it still comes with limitations compared to full Android, including a more restricted app ecosystem. Buyers should know what they are getting into.
HMD is offering the Arc 2 in two colors: Dark Blue and Golden Beige. The phone goes on sale in Thailand on July 20 with the following pricing:
- 4GB + 64GB: THB 2,290 (around $68 or €60)
- 4GB + 128GB: THB 2,990 (around $89 or €78)
HMD has not confirmed whether the Arc 2 will reach other markets. That is a recurring issue with HMD’s budget lineup. Several of its affordable phones launch in select Asian markets and never get a wider rollout, limiting their reach. Whether the Arc 2 travels beyond Thailand remains to be seen.