Sarvam AI Brings Chatbots to Nokia and HMD Feature Phones

In a major step toward making artificial intelligence accessible to millions, feature phones from Nokia and HMD Global will soon come equipped with a Sarvam AI-powered chatbot supporting multiple Indian languages. The announcement, made at the India AI Impact Summit, signals a shift in how AI reaches users — moving beyond smartphones and into affordable feature phones used widely across India. 

The integration, powered by Sarvam AI, is designed to help users access information, services, and digital assistance using simple voice and text commands in their native languages. This move is expected to significantly expand AI adoption among populations that have traditionally been excluded from advanced digital tools. 

Bringing AI to Millions of Feature Phone Users 

India remains one of the world’s largest feature phone markets, with millions of users relying on basic devices due to affordability, connectivity, and ease of use. While smartphones dominate urban areas, feature phones continue to play a critical role in rural and semi-urban regions. 

By embedding an AI chatbot directly into these devices, Sarvam AI, Nokia, and HMD Global aim to bridge the digital divide. 

The chatbot will allow users to: 

• Ask questions and get instant answers 

• Access government services 

• Receive information in regional languages 

• Get help with daily tasks 

This means users will not need expensive smartphones or apps to benefit from artificial intelligence. 

Local Language Support at the Core 

One of the most powerful aspects of the Sarvam AI chatbot is its focus on local language support. 

India is home to hundreds of languages, and language barriers have often limited access to technology. 

Sarvam AI’s chatbot is designed to understand and respond in multiple Indian languages, making it more inclusive and accessible. 

This aligns with India’s broader goal of building AI systems that reflect local needs and linguistic diversity. 

Experts say language-first AI is critical for expanding digital inclusion. 

Why This Partnership Matters 

This collaboration is significant for several reasons. 

First, it expands AI access beyond premium devices. 

Second, it strengthens India’s domestic AI ecosystem by showcasing homegrown innovation. 

Third, it opens new opportunities for feature phone manufacturers to remain relevant in the AI era. 

Feature phones have traditionally been seen as limited devices, but AI integration could transform their capabilities. 

Users can now interact with intelligent assistants without upgrading to expensive smartphones. 

A Boost for India’s AI Adoption 

The announcement comes at a time when India is rapidly expanding its artificial intelligence infrastructure and ecosystem. 

The government and private sector are investing heavily in AI to drive digital transformation. 

Making AI accessible on feature phones supports India’s broader mission of inclusive technology. 

It ensures that AI benefits reach all sections of society. 

This could accelerate AI adoption across rural areas, small towns, and underserved communities. 

Opportunities for Businesses and Services 

The Sarvam AI chatbot could also open new opportunities for businesses and service providers. 

Companies can use the platform to: 

• Reach new customers 

• Provide customer support 

• Deliver information 

Government agencies can also use it to communicate with citizens. 

This could improve access to public services. 

The Future of AI Is Becoming More Inclusive 

The Nokia and HMD partnership with Sarvam AI reflects a growing trend — making artificial intelligence accessible to everyone. 

AI is no longer limited to high-end devices. 

It is moving into affordable, everyday technology. 

This shift could redefine how millions of people interact with digital services. 

For Sarvam AI, the partnership represents a major milestone. 

For Nokia and HMD, it adds new relevance to feature phones. 

And for India, it marks another step toward becoming a global leader in inclusive artificial intelligence. 

The message is clear: the future of AI will not just be smart — it will be accessible.