Nokia
HMD to Launch its Own Phone Brand Alongside Nokia
HMD Global, the company that took over the Nokia brand in the phone space, plans to launch its own brand of phones. HMD Global CEO Jean-Francois Baril published a post saying that "we are establishing an original HMD brand. You can expect to see a new portfolio of HMD branded mobile devices, as well as Nokia devices and collaboration with exciting new partners."
T-Mobile Picks up Nokia's New Repairable, Affordable 5G Phone
HMD Global has two new, affordable Nokia phones for the US market, and one of them is an affordable 5G phone with a user-replaceable display, battery, and charging port. The new Nokia G310 5G uses HMD's "QuickFix" design. Through a partnership with iFixit, users can get easy-to-follow repair guides and genuine spare parts to repair their own phone. This helps a phone last longer, which saves the user money and is better for the planet. The Nokia G310 5G is powered by a Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset, has a 6.6-inch HD+ display with 90 Hz refresh, and a 5,000 mAh battery. It also has a 50 megapixel main camera, NFC, 20-watt fast charging, 4 GB RAM, 128 GB of storage (expandable), and a fingerprint reader on the side. It will be available from both T-Mobile and Metro, starting at $186 on August 24th. The Nokia C210 is a 4G phone that starts at just $109. It's powered by a Snapdragon 662 chipset paired with 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB storage (expandable). The display measures 6.3 inches and the battery clocks in at 3,000 mAh. There's also a 13 megapixel camera. It hits Metro on September 14th.
Nokia Refreshes Entry-Level Android Lineup for US
HMD Global today announced two new very affordable Nokia 4G smartphones for the US. The Nokia C110 and C300 will sell for $99 and $139, respectively. Both have an HD+ display, 13 megapixel main camera, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage (expandable), IP52 water resistance, and Android 12. The Nokia C110 has a 6.3-inch display, 3,000 mAh battery, and is powered by a MediaTek Helio P22 chip. The Nokia C300 has a 6.52-inch display, 4,000 mAh battery, fingerprint reader, macro and depth cameras, and is powered by a Snapdragon 662 chip. Both phones go on sale this month. The C110 comes in grey and will be available from Walmart, Target, Consumer Cellular, and Tracfone. The C300 comes in blue and will be offered by Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Amazon, Consumer Cellular, and Tracfone.
Nokia Brings New Affordable Phones to T-Mobile, Boost
HMD Global this week finally launched its Nokia G400 5G with T-Mobile. Way back in January, the company announced that the launch was planned for the second quarter of the year. HMD also just announced that Boost will offer its Nokia C200 and G100 4G phones "in the coming weeks". Those phones were also part of the January announcement, although carrier partners were not disclosed at the time. The G100 is arriving later than planned, but at a lower price of $140. The C200 is already available from TracFone. Further, HMD was named "the #5 Smartphone company in the U.S." according to IDC. "Nokia smartphones now account for 2.9% of the U.S. smartphone market". The company released new details of the G100 and G400 5G:
- The G100 improves on the C200 with a larger 6.5-inch display, larger 5,000 mAh battery, a more powerful Snapdragon 662 chip, a fingerprint reader, and an 8 megapixel wide-angle camera. Other specs are similar, including a 13 megapixel main camera, 8 megapixel front camera, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage (expandable), fast charging, and a headset jack. It will sell for $140.
- The G400 5G steps up to FHD+ display resolution with 120 Hz refresh, a 48 megapixel main camera, 16 megapixel front camera, NFC, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, and of course, 5G. T-Mobile is selling it for $234.
Nokia Phones Coming to New US Carriers in 2022
HMD Global is teasing its lineup of Nokia phones for the US for first half of 2022. The five new phones will bring the company's presence to two new US carriers, representing "its largest U.S. expansion since launching in the market more than four years ago". The claim seems to refer to the number of phones launching across all US carriers, not the number of carriers, since the list does not include previous partners Verizon, AT&T, and Cricket. Instead, Nokia will launch new phones with Dish (Boost) and Consumer Cellular, while keeping T-Mobile, Metro, and TracFone on board. The first two phones to launch (in the first quarter) will be the most affordable: the Nokia 2760 Flip 4G feature phone for $79, and the Nokia C100 4G smartphone for $99. In the second quarter, the Nokia G400 will be the company's next affordable 5G phone. It will offered by T-Mobile and/or Metro, TracFone, Dish (Boost), and Consumer Cellular. It has an MSRP of just $239. The company will also bring the C200 and G100 4G phones to US carriers in Q2, for $119 and $149, respectively. Specs and further details are being withheld until closer to launch.
Nokia Brings Affordable 5G to T-Mobile
HMD Global had announced the Nokia X100, a 5G phone starting at $249, exclusively for T-Mobile and Metro. The phone includes a Qualcomm Snapdragon chipset, Nokia OZO Audio, and Zeiss camera optics. Specs include a 6.67-inch full-HD display, 4,470 mAh battery, Snapdragon 480 chipset, 6 GB RAM, 128 GB storage, and a 48-megapixel main camera. It also has a 5-megapixel wide-angle camera, 16-megapixel selfie camera, NFC, side fingerprint reader, fast charging, headset jack, and memory card slot. It supports T-Mobile's current sub-6 GHz 5G network. It goes on sale November 19th in Midnight Blue. T-Mobile will sell it for $249, while Metro will sell it for $259.
Nokia G300 Lands at TracFone with 5G
Nokia's latest phone for the US is the G300, an affordable 5G phone for TracFone and Straight Talk. TracFone is making a big new push into 5G, having recently launched the Orbic Magic 5G. The Nokia G300 is cheaper at just $199. Key features include a 6.52-inch display, 4,470 mAh battery, 16 megapixel main camera, 5 megapixel wide camera, and 8 megapixel front camera. It has 4 GB RAM, 64 GB built-in storage (expandable), and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 processor. It also has a fingerprint reader, dual-band Wi-Fi, fast charging, and a headset jack. The Nokia G300 goes on sale next Tuesday, October 19th.
Nokia's Third G-Series Phone Adds 5G
Nokia today announced the third phone in its relatively new G series. The Nokia G50 has 5G and costs $299. Key features include a large 6.82-inch HD display, large 5,000 mAh battery for "two-day battery life", and a 48-megapixel main camera. The G50 also has 18-watt fast charging, a 5-megapixel wide-angle camera, NFC, side fingerprint reader, memory card slot, and headset jack. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 chipset with 4 GB RAM and 128 GB built-in storage. It has decent support for AT&T's 4G and low-band 5G networks, although it lacks LTE 14/29/30 and NR 77 (US C-band) that would give it the best performance with AT&T. It will not be certified for Verizon and lacks LTE 71 that would give it decent support for T-Mobile's network. The phone is available in two colors: Midnight Sun (rose gold) and Ocean Blue. The Nokia G50 ships starting Sept. 30th and is available for pre-order from nokia.com starting today.
Nokia Intros Rugged Phone, Brings it to US
Nokia's new XR20 is a $550 5G phone with a design rugged enough to carry case-free. The "life-proof" body can withstand 6-foot drops, an hour underwater, washing with soap and water, and extreme temperatures. The display is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus, Corning's newest and most durable display glass. The phone also offers "two-day" battery life with fast wired (18W) and wireless (15W) charging. It has excellent support for all US frequency bands in 4G and 5G, including the forthcoming C-band. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 chip with 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage (expandable). The main camera is 48 megapixel with Zeiss optics, accompanied by a 13 megapixel wide-angle camera. Other features include NFC, headset jack, Wi-Fi 6, stereo speakers, and USB 3.0. As an X-series phone, it comes with Nokia's promise of three major OS updates plus four years of security updates. It will be available in blue or grey. It ships in the US on August 24th for $550.
Nokia Brings New G Series to US
HMD Global is officially bringing its new Nokia G20 phone to the US for $200. The Nokia G10 was released here a few weeks ago. Nokia's new model lineup consists of the entry-level C series, mainstream G series, and higher-end X series. Each series has two models so far. Nokia has yet to announce plans for its C and X series in the US. The new G-series phones will both sold unlocked in the US on nokia.com. These first two G-series phones are nearly identical at first glance, including the same body, 6.5-inch HD+ LCD display, 5,050 mAh battery, and side-mounted fingerprint reader. While the G10 has relatively basic specs and sells for $150, the G20 (shown) has several key upgrades to justify its $50 premium, including NFC, a 48 megapixel main camera, added wide-angle camera (5 megapixel), faster MediaTek Helio processor, 4 GB RAM instead of 3, and 128 GB storage instead of 32. Both phones have the same basic US 4G network support, including bands 2, 4, 5, 12, and 66. This is adequate for use with AT&T and T-Mobile, but won't provide full coverage with T-Mobile, nor the best service with AT&T. Both phones come with Android 11. For its new G series, HMD promises two years of major Android updates — including Android 12 — and three years of monthly security updates. The G20 will be available in two colors: Night and Glacier. The Nokia G10 is available now, while the G20 goes on sale July 1st.
HMD Makes Major Push For Enterprise Market
HMD Global, the company behind Nokia-branded phones, today announced a new set of offerings and partnerships designed to win over business customers. HMD already offers a leading three years of monthly security updates for most of its phones (including all new X- and G-series phones), an attractive feature for business customers. Now enterprise customers will be able to purchase a fourth year of security updates for certain models. HMD is also offering insurance plans and extended warranties, and new management solutions. HMD Enable Pro is the company's EMM (Enterprise Mobility Management) solution for managing devices, while HMD Connect Pro is their new solution for managing SIMs and roaming worldwide. Connect Pro is based on the WING platform from Nokia. HMD is also partnering with global IT consulting firm CGI for system integration for enterprise customers.
Verizon Picks up Nokia's New Flip Phone
Nokia today announced the Nokia 2720 V Flip feature phone for Verizon. Styled after the Nokia 2720 offered by AT&T and T-Mobile almost 12 years ago, the 2720 V Flip is a modern 4G LTE feature phone. Running KaiOS, the phone offers Google Assistant and the ability to download select apps from the KaiStore. The phone also supports HD Voice, and Wi-Fi mobile hotspot. The main screen is 2.8 inches and the outer display is 1.3 inches. The phone has extra-large keypad buttons and display text can be enlarged up to 100%. An emergency button sends a message to five contacts, giving details of your location, after which it rings selected contacts until they answer. There's also a 2 megapixel camera on the back, just below the hinge, a 3.5mm headset jack, and a memory card slot. Nokia claims the removable 1,500 mAh battery can last 26 days on standby. The Nokia 2720 V Flip will be available available May 20th for $80 at VerizonWireless.com or using the My Verizon app.
Nokia Brings 5G Flagship to Verizon
Nokia's first flagship phone in the US in many years is the Nokia 8 V 5G UW for Verizon. The 8 V is a variant of the Nokia 8.3 5G, Nokia's first 5G phone globally. The 8 V adds mmWave 5G and comes in a Meteor Gray finish, but is otherwise identical to the 8.3 5G. The 8V will be available from Verizon and Best Buy for $700 starting November 12th. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G chipset. Key specs include a large 6.8-inch display, large 4,500 mAh battery, 64 megapixel main camera with Zeiss lens, 12 megapixel wide camera, and a 24 megapixel selfie camera. It also has fast charging, a headset jack, memory card slot, and dedicated programmable shortcut button. The fingerprint reader is integrated into the lock button on the side. The premium design is made from metal and 3D curved glass. HMD Global, the company behind Nokia phones, will run a US marketing campaign for the 8 V starring Lashana Lynch from the 25th James Bond film, No Time To Die.
Nokia Updates Entry-Level Phones
Nokia this week introduced two new entry-level Android phones, and started taking pre-orders for its first 5G phone.
- Nokia 2.4: This $139 phone has a huge 4,500 mAh battery offering two-day battery life. It also sports a large 6.5-inch display with HD resolution and a notched design, rear fingerprint reader, 13 megapixel camera, depth camera, new Portrait Editor tool, NFC, MediaTek Helio P22 processor, 2 or 3 GB RAM, 32 or 64 GB storage, headset jack, and dedicated Google Assistant button. In the US, it will be available unlocked from Amazon initially, and later, Best Buy. It's available for pre-order now, shipping on October 11th.
- Nokia 3.4: This $179 phone adds a has a 6.4-inch HD display with a hole-punch design, Qualcomm Snapdragon 460 processor, 3 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, 4,000 mAh battery, USB-C, fast charging, metal chassis, rear fingerprint reader, memory card slot, headset jack, and dedicated Google Assistant button. It will be available in the US "later this year".
- Nokia 8.3 5G: First announced in March, the company's first 5G phone is now available for pre-order on Amazon for $699 unlocked, shipping October 26th. Like the 2.4, it will come to Best Buy in "the coming weeks".
Nokia's First 5G Phone Coming to US
Nokia today announced that it will bring the Nokia 8.3 5G to the US "this autumn" as an unlocked phone capable of working on both AT&T and T-Mobile 5G networks. The 8.3 is the company's first 5G phone and was first revealed globally in March. A US launch is not surprising, since the specs of the 8.3 have always included support for US (sub-6 GHz) 5G networks. Key specs for the Nokia 8.3 5G include a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G chipset, 6–8 GB of RAM, 6.8-inch full-HD display, 4,500 mAh battery, and a 64-megapixel main camera.
Cricket Launches Two New Nokia Phones
Nokia has two new affordable phones for Cricket: the Nokia C5 Endi and C2 Tava/Tennen. Both offer HD+ display resolution, multiple rear cameras, a dedicated Google Assistant button, Android 10, 3.5mm audio jack, and USB-C.
- Nokia C5 Endi: Sports a 6.5-inch notched HD display, MediaTek Helio P22 processor, 4,000 mAh battery, 3 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, memory card slot, fingerprint reader, and a polycarbonate unibody design. Cameras include a 13 megapixel main camera, 5 megapixel wide camera, depth camera, 8 megapixel selfie camera. The camera app has AI scene detection and optimization, advanced portrait mode, and automatic multi-frame night mode. The Nokia C5 Endi will be available June 5th from Cricket for $170.
- Nokia C2 Tava: Unlike the rest of Nokia's current global lineup, the C2 does not have an all-screen design; its display measures just 5.45 inches. Other specs include a removable 3,000 mAh battery, 2 GB RAM, MediaTek Helio A22 processor, 32 GB storage, and a memory card slot. It has an 8-megapixel main camera, depth camera for portrait mode, and a 5-megapixel selfie camera. The C5 Tava goes on sale with Cricket tomorrow, May 29th, for $110. The Nokia C2 Tennen is the same exact phone as the C2 Tava, but in a different color (Steel instead of Tempered Blue) and with different pricing for different sales channels. It will cost just $70 and be available from "select National retail stores" starting June 15th.
Nokia Unveils its First 5G Phone, Supporting 12 5G Bands
HMD Global today announced the Nokia 8.3 5G, the company's first 5G phone. HMD claims it supports more 5G networks than any other 5G phone to date, supporting sub-6 GHz 5G networks in 12 different frequency bands, including ones used in the US, such as bands 2, 5, 41, 66, and 71. The 8.3 5G supports both today's NSA (non-stand-alone) 5G networks, as well as forthcoming SA (stand-alone) 5G networks. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G chipset paired with 6 or 8 GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 64 or 128 GB of storage. It has a 6.8-inch full-HD display with a corner hole-punch for the front camera, and a 4,500 mAh battery. Its rear camera array uses Zeiss lenses and includes a 64-megapixel main sensor, 12-megapixel wide camera, 2-megapixel macro camera, and a depth camera for portrait effects. The front camera is 24 megapixel. The Nokia 8.3 5G also has a side-mounted fingerprint reader, memory card slot, 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C, fast charging, and a dedicated Google Assistant button. It will ship globally this summer starting at 599 Euros (approx. 640 USD).
Nokia 5.3 Offers Quad Rear Cameras for $200
Nokia today announced the Nokia 5.3, a new mid-range Android phone. It has a 6.5-inch HD display with a small notch, 4,000 mAh battery, and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chip. It has four rear cameras: a 13-megapixel main camera with f/1.8 aperture, plus a 5-megapixel wide camera, 2-megapixel macro camera, and a depth camera for portrait effects. The 5.3 also comes with 3–6 GB of RAM, 64 GB of storage, a memory card slot, USB-C, fingerprint reader, dedicated Google Assistant button, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The version for the Americas will support Cat. 4 LTE in bands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12/17, 13, 28, 38 and 66. Color choices are Cyan, Sand, and Charcoal. It will ship globally in April for 189 Euros (approx. 200 USD).
Nokia 2.3 Offers 2-Day Battery for $129
The newest entry-level Nokia Android phone from HMD Global is the Nokia 2.3, which contains a 4,000 mAh battery that HMD claims can last through two days of use. It also has a 6.2-inch, 19:9, HD screen with small notch, MediaTek Helio A22 processor, 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB of storage, memory card slot, and 3.5mm headset jack. It has a 13 megapixel camera on the back plus depth camera for portrait mode, and a 5 megapixel camera on the front. An AI-powered "Recommended Shot" feature automatically captures alternate images before and after the shutter button is pressed and suggests the best one. It also has a multi-frame night mode. The frame is aluminum and the back has a "3D nano-textured" design. The 2.3 comes with Android 9 and two years of OS updates (including Android 10) plus three years of monthly security updates. The US version supports LTE in US bands 2, 4, 5, 12, and 66, which means basic support for AT&T and T-Mobile networks (including Cricket and Metro brands). The Nokia 2.3 will come in Sand and Charcoal in the US. It will be available unlocked from Amazon and Best Buy for $129 starting February 9th.
Verizon Launches Nokia 3.2 as Nokia 3 V
Verizon today launched the Nokia 3 V, which exactly like the Nokia 3.2 but with support for Verizon's 4G LTE network bands. This $168 Android phone sports a large 6.26-inch HD display with a small notch, and a large 4,000 mAh battery. Other specs include a Snapdragon 429 processor, 2 GB of RAM, 32 GB of storage, a memory card slot, and a 13-megapixel camera. It also has a 3.5mm headphone jack and comes with Android 9.
Nokia 2.2 Offers Small-Notch Design for $140
Nokia today launched the Nokia 2.2, an entry-level Android phone with a premium-looking design including a 5.71-inch HD display with a small notch. The 2.2 has Android One 9.0 (Pie), a dedicated Google Assistant button, and a solid polycarbonate body with a glossy finish. Nokia claims the 13-megapixel main camera has advanced low-light capability. It's powered by a MediaTek A22 chipset with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of ROM. Amazon and Best Buy are selling the Nokia 2.2 unlocked for $139. It comes in Steel and Tungsten Black.
Nokia Brings Another Affordable Phone to Cricket
Cricket has started selling the Nokia 3.1 C, a more-affordable version of the Nokia 3.1 Plus that Cricket launched in January. Like its higher-end sibling, the 3.1 C has a tall (2:1 ratio) HD display, USB-C connector, Android 9 (Pie), 32 GB of storage, and 2 GB of RAM. It has a 5.5-inch display, 2,990 mAh battery, a single 8-megapixel rear camera supporting Motion Photos, and a 5-megapixel selfie camera. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 429 processor. It also has a 3.5mm audio jack, FM radio, and memory card slot. Nokia's web site also now lists an identical model called the 3.1 A, implying that Cricket's parent company AT&T will also offer the phone.
Hands On with the Nokia 9 PureView
Nokia's new flagship phone has a crazy array of five cameras on the back, which use technology from Light to produce images with impressive quality and unique features. It's also a nice flagship phone in its own right, finally bringing the Nokia brand back to the high end of the market. What does it feel like to hold? What's it like to use the camera? We checked it out.
Nokia 9 PureView Has Unique Five-Camera Array from Light
Nokia today introduced five new phones, all of which run a clean version of Android One, with a promise of three years of Android updates. The new range includes a unique new camera-oriented flagship, three very affordable Android models, and one feature phone.
- Nokia 9 PureView: A high-end, photography-focused phone with an array of five Zeiss-lens, 12-megapixel cameras on the back developed in cooperation with multi-sensor camera company Light. Three of the sensors are monochrome, to capture more light. It can capture HDR photos with a range of up to 12.4 f-stops. It can also capture detailed depth data, for precise bokeh effects that can be adjusted in Google Photos. At the maximum, it can produce images up to 240 megapixels. It can also produce RAW images that can be edited with Adobe Lightroom on the phone. The glass-and-metal design is 8mm thick, with no camera bump. It's rated IP67 for water resistance, and has an under-display fingerprint reader, 6 GB pf RAM, 128 GB of storage, wireless charging, and a 6-inch QHD OLED display that supports HDR10. It will ship in March, in Midnight Blue, for $699.
- Nokia 4.2: This mid-range phone has a premium design with sculpted glass on the front and back, a 5.7-inch HD display with a small notch, NFC, a Snapdragon 439 processor, 13-megapixel camera plus secondary depth camera, fingerprint reader, face unlock, Google Lens and a dedicated Google Assistant button, and a unique lock button that doubles as a notification light. Available in April, in black and pink sand, for $169.
- Nokia 3.2: This more-affordable model has a polycarbonate unibody design, large 6.26-inch HD+ display, 4,000 mAh battery for 2-day battery life, 13 megapixel camera, Snapdragon 429 processor, fingerprint reader, face unlock, Google Lens and a Google Assistant button, and a light-up lock button like the 4.2. Available in April, in black and "steel", for $139.
- Nokia 1 Plus: A smartphone that sells for just $99. It runs Android 9 Go Edition, has a 5.4-inch display, and compared to the 1, the camera has been upgraded to 8 megapixel auto-focus. Available in red, black, and blue, in early March.
- Nokia 210: This $35 feature phone has a candy-bar design, and has a camera, games, and an app store. Available in red, gray, and black.
Multi-Lens Nokia Clears FCC
A Nokia phone with a large array of cameras on the back was just approved by the FCC. The unusual design with up to six discrete cameras on the back is clearly visible in a drawing of the back of the phone. FCC documents also reveal the phone's radio functions, which include NFC and all of the LTE bands used by Verizon, as well as basic LTE functionality for AT&T and T-Mobile. Verizon did recently launch its first Nokia phone (since the brand was handed over to HMD Global). Camera company Light revealed a prototype of a similar multi-camera phone in the middle of last year, and promised that its light field technology will come to a smartphone with five to nine cameras. Light says its phone design is capable of capturing 64 megapixel shots, better low-light performance, and sophisticated depth effects. Rumors have circulated that a phone looking like this will be called the Nokia 9 PureView. The old Nokia used the PureView brand for its phones with the most advanced cameras.
Nokia Phones Return to US Carriers
Nokia phones are back on US carrier store shelves as of today. The Nokia 3.1 Plus goes on sale today with Cricket, and Verizon will start selling the Nokia 2 V on January 31st. The announcement was made today by HMD Global, the independent company formed by ex-Nokia employees when Nokia stopped making its own phones. HMD licenses and has exclusive use of the Nokia brand for phones. The company plans additional phones for US carriers this year. "Our approach to operator relationships is not transactional — our users will see more devices at different price points launching with our prepaid and post-paid wireless prover [sic] partners and on the open market", said Maurizio Angelone, Vice President Americas for HMD Global. The Nokia 3.1 Plus has a tall (2:1) 6-inch HD screen, 3,500 mAh battery, fingerprint reader, NFC, and Snapdragon 439 processor with 2 GB RAM. It has dual rear cameras including a 13 megapixel main sensor. It sells for $160 from Cricket. The Nokia 2 V has a huge 4,000 mAh battery for "two-day battery life". It also has a 5.5-inch HD display, Snapdragon 425 processor, 8 megapixel main camera, and 8 GB storage plus a memory card slot. Pricing was not announced for the 2 V.
T-Mobile, Sprint Parents May Drop Huawei Gear to Facilitate Merger
T-Mobile and Sprint expect their proposed merger will be given the green light by government security officials as soon as next week, according to a report from Reuters. The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) has been reviewing the merger for potential security issues. At the same time, government officials have been pressuring Deutsche Telekom, T-Mobile's parent organization, and SoftBank, Sprint's parent organization, to cease use of Huawei networking gear. The U.S. insists that Huawei gear may include a back door that could be accessible to the Chinese government for spying purposes. Deutsche Telekom agreed to review its use of Huawei gear in its home country of Germany and other European markets. SoftBank says it will replace 4G Huawei equipment with new gear from Nokia and Ericsson. These concessions appear to be enough for CFIUS, say Reuters' sources, and the security committee may grant T-Mobile and Sprint the permission they need to move forward with the merger. The deal still needs to be approved by the FCC and Department of Justice. The companies expect the deal to be finalized in early 2019. None of the firms mentioned by Reuters offered comment on the report.
Nokia 8.1 Affordable Flagship from HMD Global Goes Toe-to-Toe with OnePlus
HMD Global today announced the Nokia 8.1, a devices that blends high-end design and performance in an affordable package. The 8.1 is a metal and glass slab. It features a 6000 series aluminum frame with diamond-cut edges and sandblasted, curved glass panels. The PureDisplay stretches 6.18 inches from corner to corner, and provides full HD+ resolution in a 2:1 aspect ratio. It supports HDR 10 color for improved video playback. HMD Global opted for the Snapdragon 710 processor from Qualcomm with a more powerful multi-core AI Engine. It ships with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. A dual-camera system adorns the rear and features a 12-megapixel main sensor and a 13-megapixel secondary sensor with Zeiss optics and optical image stabilization. The Pro Camera mode can tap into the camera's wide aperture for improved low-light shots. The pair can capture portrait/bokeh-style images. A 20-megapixel camera is on front. It supports pixel-binning when shooting in low light and can capture 4K selfie videos. The Nokia 8.1 can use both cameras at the same time to take a "bothie" that can then be dressed up with stickers and other edits. Other features of the Nokia 8.1 include a 3,500mAh battery with fast charging, Bluetooth with aptX, USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, and a memory card slot. The 8.1 runs the Android One version of Android 9 Pie, meaning it has a clean user interface and will receive at least two OS-level updates for two years and security updates for three years. The Nokia 8.1 goes on sale in India later this month for approximately $450. HMD Global says it will expand to other markets over time, though it didn't immediately specify which LTE bands the phone supports.
HMD Global's Nokia 7.1 Now Generally Available Online
The Nokia 7.1, announced by HMD Global earlier this month, is now available for purchase from select online retailers. Pre-orders have been ongoing since early October, but the device is now shipping from Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H Photo Video. The Nokia 7.1 is a premium mid-range phone that adopts the all-screen design approach with notch. It has a 5.84-inch PureDisplay that includes full HD+ resolution in a 19:9 screen that supports HDR10. The 7.1 has a 6000 series aluminum frame. The phone is powered by a Snapdragon 636 processor with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. A 12-megapixel main camera at f/1.8 and a 5-megapixel depth-sensing camera at f/2.4 rely on Zeiss Optics. Together, they can capture portrait/bokeh images. The 8-megapixel selfie camera has its own AI-assisted features to help with facial recognition for masks, stickers, and more. The 7.1 can live stream video from the front and rear cameras at the same time to Facebook and Instagram. Other features include a rear-mounted fingerprint reader, Cat 6 LTE with dual SIM support, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX, GPS, and WiFi. The phone includes an embedded 3,060mAh battery that supports rapid charging. The 7.1 charges via USB-C and offers a 3.5mm headphone jack. The device runs the Android One version of Android 8 Oreo, which means it is near stock and will receive three years worth of monthly security upgrades and two years worth of OS upgrades. The Nokia 7.1 costs $349.
HMD Global to Update Nokia 6 and 8 Series to Android 9 Pie
HMD Global says it plans to update several of its phones to Android 9 Pie over the next couple of months. The company will boost the Nokia 6.1 and 6.1 Plus to Pie this month. The Nokia 8 and Nokia 8 Sirocco will receive the update in November. HMD's latest device, the Nokia 7.1, which goes on sale at Amazon, Best Buy, and B&H later this month, ships with Oreo but will get Pie shortly after release.
HMD Global to Bring Nokia 7.1 with PureDisplay to US
HMD Global today announced the Nokia 7.1, a premium mid-range phone that targets people who want an affordable, yet powerful device. The 7.1 adopts the all-screen design approach. It has a 5.84-inch PureDisplay that includes full HD+ resolution in a 19:9 screen that supports HDR10. The 2.5D panel is made from Gorilla Glass 3 and will change the brightness and color tone automatically to match the surrounding light. The screen covers most of the phone's face, though it has a notch at the top to accommodate the earpiece and user-facing camera. HMD Global says the 7.1's 6000 series aluminum frame is diamond-cut and dual-anodized for a premium finish. Under the metal skin, the 7.1 is powered by a Snapdragon 636 processor with 4 GB of RAM and 64 GB of storage. Dual cameras with Zeiss Optics adorn the rear, including a 12-megapixel main camera at f/1.8 and a 5-megapixel depth-sensing camera at f/2.4. Together, they can capture portrait/bokeh images. The 8-megapixel selfie camera has its own AI-assisted features to help with facial recognition for masks, stickers, and more. The 7.1 can live stream "bothies" — or video from the front and rear cameras at the same time — directly to Facebook and Instagram. The camera app features Google Lens and Motion Photos built in. Other features include a rear-mounted fingerprint reader, Cat 6 LTE with dual SIM support, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX, GPS, and WiFi. The phone includes an embedded 3,060mAh battery that supports rapid charging. The 7.1 charges via USB-C and offers a 3.5mm headphone jack. The device runs the Android One version of Android 8 Oreo, which means it is near stock and will receive three years worth of monthly security upgrades and two years worth of OS upgrades. Pre-sales for the midnight blue and steel versions of the Nokia 7.1 begin online via Best Buy, B&H, and Amazon on October 5 with an expected shipping date of October 28. The phone will reach Best Buy stores on November 5. The Nokia 7.1 costs $349.
Verizon, Nokia, Qualcomm Reach 1.45 Gbps with LTE-Advanced
Verizon Wireless says it has reached peak download speeds of 1.45 Gbps together with partners Nokia and Qualcomm. The speed was achieved using 6-channel carrier aggregation. The test was completed on Verizon's network in New York using a combo of the carrier's licensed PCS and AWS spectrum together with four carriers of LAA spectrum. The equipment included Nokia's AirScale base station and a prototype mobile device from Qualcomm running the Snapdragon X24 LTE modem, which is capable of reaching maximum download speeds of 2 Gbps. Other technologies involved in the test included 256 QAM and 4x4 MIMO. Verizon called the result another stepping stone along its path to 5G. Verizon plans to roll out fixed 5G service in some cities next month, with mobile 5G scheduled for launch some time in early 2019. Verizon will continue to improve the capabilities of its LTE 4G network, which will serve the majority of its customers until 5G is more widely available.
Nokia and Sprint Push 5G NR Over Massive MIMO
Nokia and Sprint today said they've made the first live 5G NR connection using a Massive MIMO antenna array. The setup can support up to 120 MHz in Sprint's 2.5 GHz spectrum. The companies claim this arrangement can deliver peak 5G download speeds up to 3 Gbps while maintaining active LTE service. This means Sprint can offer 4G and 5G on the same radio. Sprint and Nokia believe this is a win for handset makers and, eventually, consumers. Sprint believes it will be able to deploy 5G NR via Massive MIMO on its 2.5 GHz spectrum during the first half of 2019. 5G is expected to offer 4K and 8K video streaming, as well as high-definition virtual reality and ultra-low latency.
Verizon Says It Completed 5G NR Data Call with Commercial Gear
Verizon Wireless today said that together with partner Nokia it has taken another step forward its eventual launch of mobile 5G. The company says it completed the first "over-the-air, end-to-end data transmission on a commercial 3GPP 5G New Radio (NR) network." The test, completed in Washington, D.C., used a real-world 5G base station and transmitted data using Verizon's 28 GHz (mmWave) spectrum to a Nokia van on the city street. Last month, the two companies completed a successful hand-off between two 5G cell sites in a controlled setting. Verizon is preparing to deploy fixed 5G service as an in-home broadband replacement later this year. It won't launch mobile 5G service, which this test covered, until 2019.
Verizon and Nokia Complete Mobile 5G Call Handoff
Verizon Wireless today said that together with partner Nokia it has completed a mobile 5G call with the receiving device moving from one cell to another. This is an important step in the development of 5G, as it will eventually allow people to use 5G devices freely when moving around outside. Verizon says it completed the test at Nokia's Murray Hill, NJ, location using the 3GPP New Radio (NR) 5G standard. It used two radios on Nokia's building to broadcast 28 GHz (mmWave) to a receiver in a moving vehicle. Verizon says the vehicle traveled between the two radio coverage zones and made a successful handoff from one to the other. Verizon is preparing to deploy fixed 5G service as an in-home broadband replacement later this year. It won't launch mobile 5G service, which this test covered, until 2019.
Nokia 3.1 Is Up for Preorder from Amazon
Amazon.com has listed the Nokia 3.1 on its site for $159. The phone, announced last month, is available for preorder from the online retailer, but it won't ship until July 2. The 3.1 has a 5.2-inch full HD+ screen with the 2:1 aspect ratio and Gorilla Glass. It is powered by a MediaTek 6750N processor and includes 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of storage with support for memory cards up to 128 GB. The primary camera has a 13-megapixel sensor at f/2 with LED flash, while the front camera has an 8-megapixel sensor at f/2.2. Other specs include a 2,990mAh battery and Bluetooth 5.0. The Nokia 3.1 comes in black, blue, and white. Nokia-branded phones are made by HMD Global.
HMD Global Debuts Three New Low-Cost Nokia Phones
HMD Global has refreshed it lineup of affordable Android phones with the Nokia 5.1, Nokia 3.1, and Nokia 2.1. Each new phone is an update to last year's devices. All three run Android 8 Oreo with Cat 4 LTE, USB-C, GPS, and 3.5mm headphone jacks.
- Nokia 5.1: The 5.1 has a 5.5-inch full HD+ screen with the 2:1 aspect ratio and Gorilla Glass 3. It is powered by a MediaTek 6755S processor and includes 2/3 GB of RAM and 16/32GB of storage with support for memory cards up to 128 GB. The primary camera has a 16-megapixel sensor with PDAF and flash, while the front camera has an 8-megapixel sensor. Other specs include a 3,000mAh battery and Bluetooth 4.2. The Nokia 5.1 comes in black, blue, and copper and costs about $250.
- Nokia 3.1: The 3.1 has a 5.2-inch full HD+ screen with the 2:1 aspect ratio and Gorilla Glass. It is powered by a MediaTek 6750N processor and includes 2/3 GB of RAM and 16/32GB of storage with support for memory cards up to 128 GB. The primary camera has a 13-megapixel sensor at f/2 with LED flash, while the front camera has an 8-megapixel sensor at f/2.2. Other specs include a 2,990mAh battery andBluetooth 5.0. The Nokia 3.1 comes in black, blue, and white and costs about $160.
- Nokia 2.1: This entry-level phone ships with the dialed-down Android Go variant of Oreo. It includes a 5.5-inch HD screen with the 16:9 aspect ratio. It is powered by a Snapdragon 425 processor with 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of storage. It has an 8-megapixel camera on back and a 5-megapixel camera on front. Other specs include a 4,000mAh battery. The Nokia 2.1 comes in blue and silver and costs about $115.
HMD Global Raises $100M to Expand Nokia Phone Business
HMD Global today said it has raised $100 million in funding in order to help the company grow. HMD Global is the sole licensee of the Nokia brand and makes and sells Nokia-branded phones that run Google's Android operating system. The company brought its first phones to market in early 2017 and has seen modest success in overseas markets. The company claims to have sold more than 70 million phones in over 80 countries at some 250,000 retail outlets. This year, HMD Global plans to "aggressively expand its portfolio of Nokia smartphones" while also finding more places in which it can sell those phones. "It is our ambition to deliver great smartphones that delight our fans while staying true to our Finnish roots and the hallmarks that the Nokia brand has always been known for," said Florian Seiche, CEO of HMD Global. "We aim to be among the top smartphone players globally and our success to date gives us the confidence to further continue on a growth path in 2018 and beyond." The company has released 11 phones to date. HMD Global was created by former Nokia employees. Its phones are manufactured in China. The most recent Nokia phone made available to U.S. buyers is the Nokia 6 (2018), which can be purchased from Amazon.
Nokia 6 for Sale from Amazon and Walmart for $269
The Nokia 6 phone from HMD Global is now available to U.S. consumers. The device, first announced in February, is being sold unlocked from Amazon and Walmart for $269. The Nokia 6 (2018) is a refresh to last year's model. It carries over the same design as the original, but improves the specs under the hood. It includes a 5.5-inch screen and premium materials. Key features include NFC and a fingerprint reader. It jumps from the Snapdragon 435 to the Snapdragon 630 and is sold in the U.S. with 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of storage. The frame is milled from 6000 series aluminum and now comes in black/copper, white/iron, and blue/gold. Other features include a 3,000mAh battery, face unlock, wireless charging, USB-C, and Android 8 Oreo. Support for U.S. LTE networks is unclear at this time.
Nokia 5 and Nokia 6 Phones Now Receiving Android 8.1
HMD Global today said that it is rolling out the Android 8.1 Oreo update to the Nokia 5 and Nokia 6 phones. The company has been beta testing Oreo for these devices for the last few months. The update is available over the air. The Nokia 5 and Nokia 6 are inexpensive Android phones released by HMD Global last year. They are available unlocked from Amazon.com.
