HMD unveils child-friendly Fuse smartphone that blocks nude images, offers parental controls and location tracking

HMD Fuse

HMD has unveiled a new smartphone designed especially for children, putting safety at the very heart of the device. Called the HMD Fuse protected with HarmBlock+, it is the world’s first phone that can automatically block nude or sexual images across the camera, apps, and even live streams.

The highlight of the Fuse is HarmBlock AI, a system built in collaboration with child-safety company SafeToNet. Unlike many parental control apps that can be disabled, this feature is hardwired into the phone’s operating system. It works locally on the device, meaning no data is sent outside, and it cannot be bypassed. The AI has been trained on more than 22 million harmful images to make sure explicit content can’t be recorded, shared, or received by children.

Parents can also control how the phone evolves with their child. At first, it can function like a simple “brick phone,” limited to calls, texts, and location tracking. As the child grows older, parents can gradually unlock apps and additional features.

Other safety-focused tools include granular parental controls to manage screen time, contact whitelisting so only approved people can call or message, and real-time location tracking with alerts if a child leaves a designated safe zone.

Privacy has also been a major focus. The phone doesn’t send photos, videos, or browsing history outside the device, ensuring sensitive data stays private.

On the lighter side, the Fuse also brings a bit of fun. It ships with two interchangeable cases, one of which includes a foldable LED light ring around the camera for selfies. All the accessories are made from 100% recycled materials, adding an eco-friendly touch.

The HMD Fuse protected with HarmBlock+ is currently available exclusively through Vodafone UK, starting at £33 per month with a £30 upfront cost. The company says it will roll out to other markets soon, beginning with Australia.

With this launch, HMD is making a bold statement: smartphones for kids don’t just have to be about fun and features—they can also be about safety and peace of mind for parents.