Dialling up a better phone: Kids have their say
In 2024, HMD investigated a global parental dilemma: smartphones are putting kids at risk, and over half of parents regret handing them over. Now, the conversation evolves. HMD went straight to the source—kids. By listening to what they want, alongside their parents' concerns, the Better Phone Project has uncovered a vision for a device that kids love and parents trust.
Join Lars Silberbauer, HMD’s CMO, as he unpacks insights from direct conversations with young people and parents, blending data and stories to reveal what balance in a digital world truly looks like—and how bold design can create phones that empower the next generation.
Lars Silberbauer is a globally recognized CMO and a disruptive leader, celebrated for his ability to anticipate trends, manage risks, and master timing. As CMO at HMD, Lars leads the marketing strategy for phones, tablets, accessories, and services.
With a track record of transforming iconic brands like LEGO, MTV, and the Olympics (IOC), Lars has built digital powerhouses by cutting through hype and focusing on what truly drives engagement and loyalty. At HMD, he is leading the charge to address the mental health crisis linked to smartphone use, balancing connectivity with solutions that promote digital well-being.
Recognized as a 2025 EMEA Fellow, Lars’ innovative strategies have earned widespread acclaim, including being named among the Top 25 Most Innovative Global Marketers by the Holmes Report. A sought after keynote speaker at Open World, Cannes Lions and Web Summit, Lars inspires audiences with his bold approach: understanding real trends, breaking through the noise, and anticipating when ideas shift from opinion to action