HMD is reportedly working on a new tile-style interface for its smartphones, bringing back memories of Nokia Lumia and Windows Phone devices.
According to leaks shared by HMD-focused accounts such as smashx_60, the company is experimenting with a new UI that takes inspiration from Microsoft’s old Windows Phone layout and Nokia’s X Software Platform. The interface is expected to run on Android rather than a separate operating system.
The leaked design reportedly uses colorful tiles instead of the usual Android home screen layout.
The idea appears similar to Windows Phone’s Live Tiles, which showed glanceable information such as messages, photos, updates, and app activity directly on the home screen. If HMD moves forward with the design, it would give its phones a different look from most Android devices.
The interface is still only reported through leaks, and HMD has not officially announced it.
Reports also claim that HMD has explored reviving more legacy Nokia branding.
Nokiamob reported that HMD may be looking into Lumia-related trademarks and patents, raising speculation about a possible Lumia-style remake in the future. Separately, HMD acquired the Nokia Asha trademark in 2018, which has also kept interest alive around possible returns for older Nokia names.
However, there is no official confirmation that a Lumia-branded Android phone is launching.
The move would fit HMD’s recent strategy of using Nokia’s older design identity.
The company has already released phones with design cues that remind users of the Lumia era. Devices such as the HMD Skyline have been compared to the Lumia 920 because of their squared-off shape and colorful body design.
A tile-based Android launcher would take that nostalgia beyond hardware and bring it into the software experience.
Most Android phones now use similar software layouts, making it harder for smaller brands to stand out.
A Windows Phone-style tile launcher could give HMD phones a clearer identity while still keeping access to Android apps. It could also appeal to users who still miss Windows Phone’s simple typography, live updates, and clean navigation.
The reported tile UI could help HMD connect with former Lumia users, but the company still needs to prove the idea works well on modern Android.
Software differentiation is difficult, and nostalgia alone may not be enough. Still, if HMD builds a smooth, customizable tile experience and pairs it with practical hardware, it could give the brand a more distinct position in a crowded smartphone market.
For now, the tile-style interface remains an unconfirmed leak.
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