Vertu

Vertu is a luxury mobile phone manufacturer and retailer that has established a distinct niche in the high-end technology sector. Originally established in London in 1998, the company began its journey as a subsidiary of the Finnish telecommunications giant Nokia. The brand was founded by Frank Nuovo, who served as Nokia’s head designer at the time, with its initial headquarters and manufacturing facilities situated in Church Crookham, Hampshire, England. The company’s entry into the market was marked by the launch of its first device, the Signature, which debuted in Paris in 2002. This was subsequently followed by the release of the Ascent model in 2004, helping to define the brand’s early reputation. Vertu has since evolved beyond its origins as a maker of luxury keypad phones, repositioning itself as a provider of premium travel companions and high-end lifestyle devices. Today, Vertu is known for its commitment to craftsmanship, producing phones that are handcrafted by master artisans using rare and precious materials such as gold. The brand continues to innovate within the luxury segment, offering modern products that include AI-powered devices like the Agent Q, as well as foldable models such as the AlphaFold and Quantum Flip. While the company has undergone changes in ownership that have sometimes complicated its corporate history, it remains a recognized name in the exclusive mobile phone market, currently operating with a presence in Hong Kong.