The new Nokia Design Archive not only tells the story of iconic mobile phones – it also takes visitors back to the era that Nokia helped define through the design of the digital platform itself. The visual concept is heavily inspired by the aesthetics of the 1990s. From the colour palette to the graphic elements, the platform exudes a retro charm that captures the technological spirit of the time.

With over 700 entries, including iconic models such as the Nokia 3310 and 8810, as well as never-before-seen prototypes and concepts, the archive shows the evolution of product design and the strategic decisions that made Nokia a pioneer in the mobile industry. Visitors can explore unpublished sketches, photographs and videos that reveal the creative processes behind the devices.

A highlight is the documentation of the challenges Nokia faced in developing new forms and functionalities for mobile phones. The digital exhibition shows how Nokia not only created the devices themselves, but also the networks, software and protocols that are still in use today. The collection of over 20,000 files has been made possible by a licence from Microsoft Mobile Oy. It is a valuable testimony to the innovation and social impact of technological design.

The Nokia Design Archive at Aalto University is more than a scientific project – it is a contribution to understanding the history of technology. It sheds light on how ideas have been adopted by society and the visions associated with mobile connectivity. It is also an invaluable resource for designers, researchers and technology enthusiasts who want to trace the evolution of mobile phones and the role of design in technology.