The Barbie Phone Launch: A Show-Stopping Celebration at London’s Design Museum

It’s here! The Barbie Phone has officially arrived, and I couldn’t be more excited to finally share this incredible collaboration with the world. After a year in the making, the response has been nothing short of phenomenal—selling out twice across Europe in record time. If you haven’t secured yours yet, now’s the time!

Launching this phone has been a defining moment in my career, and what better way to celebrate than with an unforgettable brand experience at London’s Design Museum? As part of the 100 Years of Barbie exhibition, we unveiled this nostalgia-filled, stylish, and playfully functional device, bringing the Barbie legacy into the digital age in a way that’s both aspirational and empowering.

The Exhibition: A Celebration of Iconic Design

For generations, Barbie has been more than just a doll—she’s been a cultural icon, a symbol of empowerment, and a champion of self-expression. Partnering with Mattel to launch the Barbie Phone at London’s Design Museum felt like a perfect collaboration—one that blends timeless design with modern-day digital well-being.

The exhibition itself was a stunning tribute to Barbie’s 100-year journey, showcasing her evolution through fashion, storytelling, and innovation. Having HMD Global featured in this prestigious showcase alongside one of the most recognized brands in history was an incredible milestone.

But this launch wasn’t just about celebrating Barbie’s past—it was about embracing her future. The Barbie Phone is more than a device—it’s a statement. Designed for a new generation that values both style and balance, this phone encourages digital mindfulness, allowing users to disconnect from constant notifications and be more present in their daily lives.

The Exclusive Influencer Dinner: A Night of Glamour and Connection

To amplify the launch, we hosted an exclusive, invite-only dinner at The 100 Kensington Hotel in West London, welcoming 30 influential creators from around the world. These were the first individuals to unbox the Barbie Phone, and we made sure it was an experience they wouldn’t forget.

Inside the custom jewelry-box-inspired packaging, influencers discovered not only the phone itself but also a personalized holographic Barbie—a one-of-a-kind digital collectible. Watching their reactions as they unveiled these details was a highlight of the evening, reinforcing the idea that this launch was not just about a product—it was about creating an unforgettable moment.

The dinner itself was a masterclass in brand storytelling. Every element—from the curated menu to the elegant decor—was meticulously designed to reflect the chic, playful, and aspirational world of Barbie. This was more than an event—it was an immersive experience that brought the Barbie ethos to life.

A Special Barbie Bus Ride Through London

The magic didn’t stop at dinner. Following the event, the Mattel team surprised us with a private Barbie-branded London bus, taking us from the Barbie Booth to the Design Museum exhibition. As we cruised through London’s iconic streets, surrounded by Barbie-inspired branding, it became clear that this was more than a product launch—it was a cultural moment.

Collaboration at Its Best: A Global Effort

This project was a true testament to the power of collaboration. From HMD’s product and trade teams to Mattel’s communications and PR teams, this launch was the result of meticulous planning, creativity, and shared vision. Special thanks to every team member, partner, and collaborator who helped bring this to life—this was an achievement we can all be proud of.

As Head of Global Social Media and Community Engagement, I had the privilege of leading the digital storytelling and communications strategy behind this launch. From influencer partnerships to social-first campaigns, our goal was to ensure that this wasn’t just a launch—it was a movement, a moment, and a milestone. Seeing the enthusiasm from fans worldwide and the overwhelming media response has made every effort worthwhile.

The Barbie Phone: A Jewel in the Digital World

More than just a device, The Barbie Phone is an experience. With its jewelry-box-inspired packaging, vibrant design, and focus on digital well-being, this phone is about more than just looking fabulous—it’s about empowering users to take control of their digital lives. Whether you’re planning a getaway, taking a break from social media, or simply embracing the moment, this is the phone that brings fun, balance, and style together.

The 100 Years of Barbie exhibition at the Design Museum is open until [insert exhibition dates], offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Barbie’s iconic legacy—and, of course, to see The Barbie Phone in all its glory.

Unboxing Joy: What’s Next?

This launch marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for HMD. We’ve set the stage for playful, nostalgia-driven innovation, and there’s so much more to come.

Until then, get ready to unbox joy with The Barbie Phone—because technology should be just as fun as it is functional.

🎀✨ Stay tuned for the launch video and an exclusive sneak peek at the Barbie Phone in its stunning packaging. 💕