For the first time, Nokia has released an Android-powered range of smartphones. Android is the most widely used mobile platform in the world, followed by Apple’s iOS and Windows Phone in third place, according to IDC research.
The new range is based on the open-source Android platform, but will have a distinct Windows Phone look and feel. Expect to see the tiles that feature on premium devices such as the Lumia range.
The range comes preloaded with Nokia and Microsoft apps such as Here Maps, MixRadio, Outlook.com and Skype, but users won’t benefit from the Google suite of apps usually available on Android devices such as Google Maps.
The Nokia X range consists of mid-level smartphones aimed specifically at emerging markets such as South Africa. The Nokia X is launching in Europe immediately for €89 (about R1 400). The Nokia X+ is expected to retail at €99 (about R1 500) and the Nokia Xl at €109 (R1 650) when they launch later this year.
While details on pricing and availability in South Africa have not yet been released, we can confirm that Vodacom will be stocking some of the devices once they do become available locally.
| Device | Nokia XL | Nokia X+ | Nokia X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display | 5-inch, 800 x 480px resolution | 4-inch, 800 x 480px resolution | 4-inch, 800 x 480px resolution |
| Processor | 8225 Qualcomm Snapdragon, 1GHz Dual Core | 8225 Qualcomm Snapdragon, 1GHz Dual Core | 8225 Qualcomm Snapdragon, 1GHz Dual Core |
| RAM | 768MB | 768MB | 512MB |
| Storage | Up to 32GB ( MicroSD) 4GB card included | Up to 32GB ( MicroSD) 4GB card included | Up to 32GB (MicroSD) |
| OS | Nokia X software platform | Nokia X software platform | Nokia X software platform |
| Camera | 5MP main, 2MP rear | 3MP front | 3MP front |
| Battery | 2000 mAh | 1500 mAh | 1500 mAh |
| Dimensions | 141.3 x 77.7 x 10.8mm | 115.5 x 63 x 10.4mm | 115.5 x 63 x 10.4mm |
| Weight | 190g | 128.66g | 128.66g |
