Around 5 months ago, I received a phone call from the regional HMD Office that covers Eastern Africa, and they had a strange request. I was offered a device to test drive. This device was not yet available in the open market in this region, but I was getting a sneak peek at the goodies before they were released to the public. Lucky me!
When I asked why me (because there’s nothing quite like a free lunch), I was told that they believed I would offer an authentic review of their prime device without the fluff. So they wanted the publicity, but more than that, they also wanted the truth. And that, my friends, is how we have found ourselves having this conversation. So join me as I take the HMD #Skyline for a spin around the block and then some.
MEET THE REVIEWER – PABLO MURUNGA
This is not your typical product review. It is more like peeking into my life and seeing how I use this device every day. In order to do that, you will need to get to know me a little better. So, who is this Pablo guy? Why did HMD want to use my voice?
I didn’t go to Alliance, unlike some people I know (Hehehehe). Many of the skills I now have were nurtured at my alma mater #NairobiSchool. I am a distinguished member of The Old Cambrian Society. But enough said about me. If you wanna go down that rabbit hole, we can meet behind the yellow tent for a drink or three of my favourite tipple. Or, you can stalk my timeline and discover some of the interesting topics I choose to write about. The choice is yours.
THE MUEMA CHALLENGE SERIES
So last year I took on the task of working to build this brand together with Muema Muindi, the founding partner of this golf series that is making waves in East Africa. This is in fact where my first encounter with the HMD Brand. You see Misumi Mark, the guy who heads the HMD Business in the EA Region just happened to be playing at the 2024 season-ending Event at the Mount Kipipiri Golf & Resort. Unkown to me, my Storytelling work on the Muema Challenge had caught his attention and he was especially intrigued by my photography skills. So that’s the back story about how the pink box arrived at my doorstep via Wells Fargo Courier Services. I even made an unboxing video, but now I can’t find it, so I will drop Moses Kemibaro‘s unboxing video instead. He also received one of those early test drive devices. Check out the link below.
FIRST IMPRESSIONS – CHASING THE SUN
I am an early morning walker. Ok, to be honest, I walk all the time but early mornings are my favourite time of day to stretch my legs and catch a stroll in the fresh morning air. I usually combine my walking regime with my passion for photography. My principal subject during these morning walks is catching the Sunrise. My daily driver for this task is the dependable Google Pixel 3A XL, which is now a bit long in the tooth and requires an upgrade.
These morning Shots will either cover my daily commute, my early morning Golf Game, or the street life that Nairobi conjures up at that early hour. These Images are too many to fit in this article, so I will share a link here that will redirect you to a slideshow that speaks directly to these early morning sojourns.
However, below you will find an example of the kind of images you will expect to find on that slideshow. Enjoy the ride.
GOLF IN NYANDARUA AT MOUNT KIPIPIRI
So, back to my golf game… as I chase a credible handicap, I have dedicated 3 golf days a week at the very minimum. I usually play twice, early in the week and once on the weekend, mainly on Sundays. Every once in a while, I like to organise a golf social tour to play courses that I would not normally play. This allows me to both travel and see this beautiful country of Kenya, which is home to some delightful golf courses. I am a member of four active Golf Groups that offer enough content for my golf travelogue Series #GolfingInTheSun. There will be a coffee table book coming out later this year, capturing some of these golf highlights. Watch this space for details. In the meantime, this is what Golf In Nyandarua looks like.
Unboxing the Skyline: First Impressions That Stick
Right out of the box, the Skyline catches the eye with its brushed aluminum finish and sleek, tapered edges—evoking a bit of that classic Nokia Lumia vibe. It’s a subtle nod to the past, and for longtime fans, it adds a touch of nostalgia. The build quality is instantly noticeable; it’s solid, weighty in a good way, and clearly built to last.
The model I’m unboxing is the Neon Pink/Rose version—a bold choice that stands out without feeling flashy. For those who prefer something more understated, there’s also a Twisted Black option with a matte finish that leans more toward a professional, refined look.
Display & Build Quality
Firing up the device, the 6.55-inch pOLED screen immediately impresses. The 144Hz refresh rate brings a smoothness that enhances everything from casual browsing to gaming. Colors are vivid and well-balanced, and with 1000 nits peak brightness, the display holds its own even under bright sunlight.
Camera Capabilities
The Skyline’s 108 MP rear camera is clearly one of its standout features. With HDR support and Night Mode 3.0, it’s set up to handle low-light shots and dynamic scenes with ease. There’s also a 50 MP front-facing camera enhanced by AI—great for both selfies and video calls.
Performance & Battery Life
Under the hood, it’s running the Snapdragon® 7s Gen 2 chip with 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage—plenty of power for multitasking, media, or gaming. The addition of 5G means it’s ready for anything the next few years might throw your way.
Battery-wise, the Skyline is no slouch. Its 4600 mAh battery is built for longevity, with up to 48 hours of use on a single charge. You also get 33W fast charging, 15W wireless charging, and even reverse wireless charging for added convenience. PlayThis Camera System is the real deal!
So does the Skyline cut the mustard? For me, the answer is a resounding yes! They have managed to find the perfect balance between performance and aesthetics while saving my wallet a big hit. That is progress of the right kind.
It’s time for me to call it a day. I will leave you with this parting shot of the orange sunrise in the Mara and the golden sea of grass that is home to Kenya’s beautiful wildlife. I was lucky enough to take a trip into Narok County in February, and I took my #Skyline with me. These are some of the images shot on that trip. I’m off to work on my short game as I sharpen up for the incoming #MuemaChallenge in #Kigo, Uganda. I can’t wait to get out there for the weekend. I know #JacksonWere and his team are waiting to welcome us all to the Pearl of Africa. #Tubasanyukidde – You are most welcome.
