For years, HMD Global has been synonymous with smartphones, first by reviving the beloved Nokia brand and more recently under its own HMD banner. Their portfolio has steadily grown to include tablets and feature phones, but a new leak suggests the Finnish company is ready for its biggest expansion yet: entering the competitive laptop market.
This move marks a significant strategic shift for HMD and could signal a new chapter as it builds a comprehensive ecosystem of personal devices.
A Glimpse into HMD's Laptop Past... Through a Partner
This isn't the first time the "Nokia" name has been attached to a laptop. Many will remember that other licensing partners, like the French startup Off Global, previously released devices like the Nokia Purebook X14. However, with Off Global having shut down earlier this year, the path for a new HMD-branded laptop seems clear.
While HMD itself has never publicly expressed interest in the segment, a new leak indicates that the company has been quietly developing its first portable computer.
By the way, ChromeOS will be replaced by Android for PC next year, so what's the point of this laptop? Can it be upgraded to Android for PC?
— nloop. (@nloopid) November 27, 2025
The Leak: Meet the HMD Book CS-1 Flip
The news comes from known leaker @smashx_60 on X (formerly Twitter), who has revealed key details about the upcoming device. According to the source, the laptop is currently known by two names: the HMD Chromebook CS-1 Flip and the HMD Book CS-1 Flip.
The inclusion of "Flip" in the name is a strong indicator of the device's form factor. Much like the popular ASUS Chromebook Flip CX1, the HMD laptop is expected to be a 2-in-1 convertible. This means it will likely feature a hinge that allows the screen to rotate a full 360 degrees, transforming from a traditional laptop into a tablet or presentation stand. A touchscreen display is a given with this design, though its exact size remains a mystery for now.
The leak, which you can see for yourself in the post, provides our first look at this exciting development.
The Big Questions: Aluminium OS and Intel Power
Perhaps the most intriguing detail from the leak concerns the software. The source questions whether the device will ship with the standard ChromeOS or a new operating system, currently codenamed "Aluminium OS." This purported OS is believed to be the result of a deeper merger between ChromeOS and Android, potentially offering a more seamless experience between apps and desktop workflows. If true, HMD could be among the first to launch a device with this new, unified platform.
On the hardware side, the leak confirms the HMD Book CS-1 Flip will be powered by an Intel processor. This is a notable choice, steering clear of ARM-based chips like the MediaTek Kompanio 540 that are common in entry-level and mid-range Chromebooks. An Intel chip typically suggests a focus on stronger performance for multitasking and more demanding web applications, though the exact model and its capabilities are still under wraps.
First HMD Laptop, HMD Chromebook CS-1 FLIP
— HMD_MEME'S (@smashx_60) November 27, 2025
The Road Ahead: Can HMD Stand Out?
The Chromebook market is a crowded field, dominated by established players like Acer, Asus, Lenovo, and Samsung. The big question is what unique value HMD plans to bring.
Will they target students with a budget-friendly, durable design? Or perhaps focus on professionals needing a portable companion device? The convertible form factor offers versatility, but HMD will need a compelling mix of build quality, battery life, pricing, and perhaps unique software features to carve out its own space.
As we await an official announcement from HMD, more details are sure to surface. For now, the leak of the HMD Book CS-1 Flip confirms one thing: the smartphone specialist is ready to flip the script and become a true multi-category contender.
What are your hopes for an HMD laptop? Let us know in the comments below!