The iconic visual design of Windows Phone may soon make a return to modern smartphones. Recent leaks suggest that HMD Global is actively testing a tile-based user interface, drawing heavy inspiration from the Live Tiles made famous during the Nokia Lumia era, which earned a dedicated following among Microsoft mobile users.
According to details shared by tipster smashx_60 on X (formerly Twitter), the new interface represents a modernized evolution of the software platform previously seen on the Nokia X series and legacy Windows Phone systems. The design departs significantly from conventional Android standards, adopting a dynamic layout composed of colorful, customizable tiles that display live information directly on the home screen.
Yes, It is https://t.co/fthOTqb8Zm
— HMD_MEME'S (@smashx_60) July 22, 2026
This development aligns with HMD’s ongoing strategy to honor Nokia’s design heritage, even as the formal licensing partnership between the two companies nears its conclusion. Previous tributes include devices incorporating the classic Fabula design language, defined by the distinct square lines of the Nokia N9 and early Lumia handsets. A prime example is the recent HMD Skyline, which drew immediate comparisons to vintage Lumia models due to its unibody construction and sharp corners.
Furthermore, industry reports indicate that HMD is engaged in legal discussions to secure the rights to the Lumia brand name and related design patents from Microsoft. Successfully obtaining these assets could allow the manufacturer to release an official Lumia-branded smartphone running on the Android operating system. HMD is reportedly planning a similar effort to revive the historic Asha branding for feature-rich budget devices.
Leveraging nostalgia serves as a strategic maneuver for HMD to differentiate itself in an increasingly uniform smartphone market. The original typography and intuitive grid navigation of Windows Phone continue to appeal to users looking for an alternative to current Android and iOS aesthetics. A highly customizable, tile-driven interface combined with strong camera performance and repairable hardware could provide HMD with a unique selling point in a crowded industry.
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