Only a few brands in the mobile device industry have experienced global business success like Nokia. The company's journey was marked by innovation, setbacks, and now, a new direction after dominating the mobile phones market for years. Upon the former fame, it seems the company can no more keep up with the current competition in the mobile phone industry and may likely change it's name as a brand that we all know.

The Rise of Nokia as a Global Brand

Nokia's story began in the small town of Nokia, Finland, in the late 19th century. The same town from which the company derived its name. The company was initially a pulp mill, then it expanded into various industries, including rubber and electronics.

In the 1980s, Nokia made its first step into the telecommunications sector with key focus on the mobile phones production. It wasn't long before Nokia became a household name, known for its durable and reliable devices.

Dominance in the Mobile Phone Industry

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, Nokia had solidified its position as the undisputed leader in the mobile phone industry. The company's phones were synonymous with quality, innovation, and user-friendly features. Nokia's iconic devices, such as the Nokia 3310 and Nokia 1100, captured the hearts of millions of consumers worldwide.

Nokia's Operating System: Symbian

Part of Nokia's success can be attributed to its operating system, Symbian. Developed in partnership with other mobile phone manufacturers, Symbian was the leading smartphone as of the time and offered a customizable and versatile platform for Nokia's devices. This allowed Nokia to create a wide range of phones tailored to different market segments, from basic feature phones to advanced smartphones.

Challenges and Decline

Despite its early successes, Nokia faced significant challenges in the late 2000s that would ultimately lead to its decline. One of the key factors was the emergence of new competitors, particularly Apple and its revolutionary iPhone. Apple's introduction of a touch-centric interface and an app ecosystem disrupted the mobile phone market, challenging Nokia's dominance.

Missteps and Lack of Innovation

Nokia's decline can be partly attributed to its failure to respond effectively to the changing market landscape. The company struggled to adapt to the touchscreen revolution and continued to rely on its aging Symbian operating system. Meanwhile, competitors like Apple and Samsung embraced new technologies and user experiences, leaving Nokia behind.

Partnership with Microsoft: The Windows Phone Era

In an attempt to regain its footing, Nokia entered into a strategic partnership with Microsoft in 2011. The collaboration aimed to create a new smartphone ecosystem based on Microsoft's Windows Phone platform. Nokia's Lumia series, powered by Windows Phone, showcased the company's commitment to innovation and differentiation.

However, the Nokia-Microsoft partnership failed to gain significant traction in the market. Despite positive reviews for their devices, the Windows Phone platform struggled to compete with the dominant forces of Apple's iOS and Google's Android. Nokia's market share continued to decline, and the company faced mounting financial difficulties.

HMD Global and the Revival of Nokia

In 2016, a glimmer of hope emerged for Nokia as HMD Global, a Finnish company, acquired the rights to use the Nokia brand for mobile phones and tablets. HMD Global was founded by former Nokia employees who believed in the enduring appeal of the Nokia brand and its potential for revival.

A Fresh Start for Nokia

Under HMD Global's leadership, Nokia made a comeback in the mobile phone market. The company's first devices, such as the Nokia 6 and Nokia 8, showcased a renewed focus on craftsmanship, durability, and a pure Android experience. Nokia's devices resonated with consumers who appreciated the brand's legacy and its commitment to quality.

Embracing Android OS 

One of the significant changes under HMD Global's stewardship was Nokia's transition from its proprietary operating systems to the Android platform. By adopting Android, Nokia gained access to a vibrant app ecosystem and a familiar user experience loved by millions worldwide. This move allowed Nokia to compete effectively with other Android phone manufacturers.

The Final U-turn of Nokia as a Brand

Looking towards the future, HMD Global has set its sights on 2024 as the "year of Human Mobile Devices." Lars Silberbauer, CMO of Nokia Phones and HMD, confirmed in a LinkedIn post that the company is moving into its own "distinct" line. This suggests that Nokia may no longer be the primary focus, as HMD Global explores new partnerships and creates original devices.

Conclusion

From its dominance in the mobile phone industry to its decline and subsequent revival under HMD Global, Nokia has experienced the full spectrum of ups and downs. Whether you remember the iconic Nokia 3310 or are excited about the latest Nokia smartphones, one thing is clear: Nokia was one of the most successful brands. The age of Nokia may have come to an end, but its legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of millions of people worldwide.