While the Nokia X Project is no more, Microsoft has launched an upgraded version of the Nokia XL in China, which comes with beefed-up specifications.
The new Nokia XL for China comes with 4G connectivity, as well as upgraded specifications on board, including more RAM and Chinese D-LTE and TD-SCDMA LTE network compatibility.
Enhanced Specifications and Connectivity
The new Nokia XL comes with support for Chinese LTE bands, so there’s a small probability that it will hit retail in other global markets. It also comes with 1GB of RAM instead of 768MB, and is powered by a quad-core Snapdragon 400 SoC instead of a dual-core processor. This upgrade in the processor and RAM means that the device will be able to handle more demanding applications and multitasking with greater ease, providing a smoother user experience.
Other features include a 5-inch display sporting a resolution of 800 x 480 pixels. While this resolution might seem low compared to modern standards, it is adequate for basic tasks and media consumption. The device also includes 4GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card slot. This is particularly useful for users who need more space for apps, photos, and other media.
The Nokia XL is equipped with a 2,000 mAh battery, which should provide a decent amount of usage time given the device’s specifications. Battery life is always a critical factor for mobile users, and this capacity should suffice for a day of moderate use. The device runs Nokia X Software 1.1, which was released with the Nokia X2 a few days back. This software is based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) but features a unique interface and app ecosystem.
Market Potential and Future Prospects
The device also appears to come with single SIM connectivity, which might be a limitation for users who prefer dual SIM functionality for managing personal and work contacts separately. However, single SIM devices often have better battery optimization and network performance.
There’s no word about the pricing, but is it worth buying? Microsoft has killed the project a few weeks back when the company laid off 18,000 workers across the globe, mostly the ones that came with Nokia’s $7.2 billion acquisition. This move has cast doubt on the future support and updates for the Nokia XL and other devices in the Nokia X series.
Despite the uncertainty, the Nokia XL could still be a viable option for users looking for a budget-friendly smartphone with decent specifications. The inclusion of 4G connectivity and a quad-core processor makes it a competitive choice in its price range. However, potential buyers should consider the long-term viability of the device, given that Microsoft has shifted its focus away from the Nokia X project.
The upgraded Nokia XL offers several improvements over its predecessor, making it a more capable device for everyday use. Its enhanced specifications, including better RAM, a more powerful processor, and 4G connectivity, make it a noteworthy option in the budget smartphone market. However, the discontinuation of the Nokia X project by Microsoft raises questions about future support and updates, which potential buyers should keep in mind.
Source: Android Central
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