Tag: Nokia

  • Nokia Phones Eligible for Android 15 Update

    Nokia Phones Eligible for Android 15 Update

    Nokia is known for providing a near-stock Android experience on its smartphones, allowing for minimal changes when Google releases a new Android OS version. This should ideally enable Nokia devices to receive software updates more quickly than other brands. However, in recent years, this hasn't been the case.

    Nokia's recent performance in software rollouts hasn't been impressive, but there's always hope for better updates each year. If you possess a Nokia smartphone, you're likely curious if it will receive the Android 15 update, given the buzz around the new OS.

    Likely Candidates for Android 15 Update

    Here are the Nokia phones most likely to receive the Android 15 update:

    • Nokia XR21
    • Nokia X30
    • Nokia G60
    • Nokia G42

    This list is not final and is based on Nokia's software update policy. We will update it when official information becomes available.

    Typically, HMD Global, Nokia's owner, offers two major OS updates and two to three years of security updates for its smartphones. Unfortunately, this policy doesn't extend to budget and entry-level phones, which rarely receive Android OS updates.

    Android 15 Rollout Timeline

    Android 15 is currently in development, with several developer previews and beta builds available for testers. According to Google's official timeline, the beta phase will last until June 2024, followed by a platform stability phase for final tweaks and bug fixes.

    While there's no official release date for Android 15 yet, it is expected to launch around the same time as last year, likely in October. It will probably be unveiled alongside the Pixel 9 series, which will be the first to run the new OS out-of-the-box.

    However, based on past performance, it's unlikely that HMD Global will start rolling out the new OS in October. For instance, Android 14 was released in October last year, but HMD Global only began its rollout in January this year.

    Exciting Features in Android 15

    Android 15 promises a host of exciting features, making it a more substantial upgrade than Android 13 and Android 14. Here are some major features discovered so far:

    • Circle to Search: This feature allows you to search anything on your screen by drawing a circle around it. Initially available on the Galaxy S24 series, it was later adopted by the Pixel 8 series and may now be supported by all Android 15 devices.
    • Satellite Connectivity Support: Enables text messaging even without cell towers, as long as you have access to the open sky. This feature supports SMS apps and preinstalled RCS apps, not just for emergencies.
    • On-Device AI Capabilities: Announced during Google I/O 2024, these capabilities will be part of Android 15, though specific uses are yet to be revealed.
    • Find My Phone Network: With this, all Android 15 phones can help locate lost devices by pinging each other via Bluetooth. The nearby devices contribute to a network that helps find the lost device by uploading encrypted location details to Google’s servers.
    • Gemini Assistant: Android 15 will replace Google Assistant with Gemini as the default assistant on all devices running the new OS.
    • App Archiving: This feature allows you to uninstall apps while retaining user data, making it easier to pick up where you left off upon reinstallation. Unlike the current app archiving feature available through the Play Store, Android 15 will extend this capability to apps installed outside the Play Store.
    • Notification Cooldown: Designed to prevent notification overload, this feature reduces the volume of successive notifications from the same app.
    • Partial Screen Sharing: Users can share and record a single app instead of the entire screen, a feature already available on Pixel devices and now extended to all Android 15 devices.
    • High-Quality Webcam: Android 15 introduces a high-quality webcam mode that significantly enhances video quality by disabling power optimizations, although it results in increased battery drain.

    Which Nokia smartphone do you own, and what are your expectations for Android 15? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Don’t forget to check out our Android 15 section for the latest news about the new OS.

  • Nokia 3210 from the 90s Sold Out in China!

    Nokia 3210 from the 90s Sold Out in China!

    Nokia reintroduced its classic 3210 phone last week in honor of its 25th anniversary, marking a global resurgence, including in China, where it has garnered significant popularity.

    Nokia 3210 Rebirth

    The phone was priced at 349 yuan when it hit the market on May 8th, and within a mere two days, all available colors (black, blue, and gold) were swiftly sold out, as confirmed by Nokia’s official Weibo account.

    Restocking and Features

    Reassuring enthusiasts, Nokia stated that their production facility is operating at full throttle to satisfy demand, with the phone set to be back in stock on May 31st, starting at 8 pm local time. The Nokia 3210 4G, while maintaining the classic design of its predecessor, comes with modern enhancements such as 4G connectivity, a 2MP rear camera, a USB Type-C port, and unique support for Alipay mobile payments in China.


    Nokia 3210 from the 90s Sold Out in China!

    Alternate Option: Nokia 220 4G

    For those who missed out on the 3210 or seek a more practical choice, Nokia is advocating for their recently unveiled Nokia 220 4G, priced at 299 yuan. This model boasts a sturdy square design with a generous 2.8-inch display, catering to users looking for a reliable backup device.


    Nokia 3210 from the 90s Sold Out in China!

    Key Features

    The Nokia 220 4G offers a substantial 1450mAh battery life and a convenient Type-C charging port. With user-friendly large font buttons and support for QR code payments, this device is designed for ease of use. It also facilitates dual SIM functionality and is compatible with leading Chinese telecom operators like China Mobile, China Unicom, China Telecom, and Radio and Television 4G networks, providing support for VoLTE high-definition voice calls.

  • HMD’s Latest Phone ‘Tomcat’ Spotted on Geekbench

    HMD’s Latest Phone ‘Tomcat’ Spotted on Geekbench

    HMD, the company behind Nokia, recently introduced three new affordable smartphones under its own brand focused on repairability – the Pulse, Pulse+, and Pulse Pro. These devices feature the UNISOC T606 processor. However, an intriguing development follows the launch of these entry-level phones, as a recent GeekBench listing hints at a more potent device in the works.

    HMD Global Tomcat: A Potential Powerhouse

    HMD's upcoming phone, codenamed 'Tomcat,' has surfaced on the Geekbench benchmark platform, achieving scores of 965 in single-core performance and 2625 in multi-core tasks. The listing discloses that this phone houses an octa-core processor with a 4+4 core configuration, boasting base frequencies of 1.96GHz and 2.4GHz.

    Snapdragon 7s Gen 2: The Probable Engine

    Although the chipset's name remains undisclosed in the listing, the specifications align closely with the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2. This chipset purportedly features 4x Cortex-A78 and 4x Cortex-A55 cores, along with an Adreno 710 GPU. Manufactured using a 4nm process, this Qualcomm offering supports a 200MP camera sensor, 4K video recording at 30fps, 1080p video recording at 120fps, and Multi-frame HDR capabilities, subject to the device manufacturer's implementation.

    While not classified as a top-tier chipset, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 stands significantly superior in performance when compared to processors like the UNISOC T606 or Snapdragon 680. This potential mid-to-high-end smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 could be positioned akin to the Nokia 8.3 released in 2020, which featured the Snapdragon 765G 5G chipset.

  • HMD unveils 2024 Nokia 6310, 230, 5310

    HMD unveils 2024 Nokia 6310, 230, 5310

    HMD Global, which holds the license for manufacturing Nokia-branded phones, recently updated three classic feature phones from their Classic series for 2024: Nokia 6310, 5310 and 230. While retaining iconic Nokia designs while adding modern conveniences such as USB-C charging ports for user-friendlier charging experiences. Unfortunately these updates only support 2G connectivity despite HMD Global’s best efforts at updating them for this year’s models.

    Nokia 6310: Modern Features in Classic Designs

    The Nokia 6310 remains true to the durable design of its predecessor while adding modern charging needs with its 1,450 mAh battery and USB-C port. While maintaining many essential features from its original model such as its VGA camera and dual SIM functionality ensuring an effortless experience.

    Nokia 230: Combining Simplicity with Improved Functionality

    Nokia 230 features classic aesthetics while receiving enhancements, like new battery and USB-C connectivity, thanks to upgrades such as its TFT display and 2 MP camera equipped with LED flash technology – giving the phone reliable daily utility.

    Nokia 5310: Enhancing Music and User Experience

    The Nokia 5310 model caters to music enthusiasts with its larger form factor and larger 1,450mAh battery capacity, featuring a larger LCD screen of 2.8". Equipped with Mediatek’s 6531F chipset and equipped with dedicated play buttons on either side and volume control buttons on its left panel; plus it includes dual speaker output as well as FM radio capabilities – perfect for listening on-the-go!

    HMD Global has not released details regarding pricing information of their updated feature phones.


    HMD unveils 2024 Nokia 6310, 230, 5310
  • Nokia plans to unveil over 17 models in 2024

    Nokia plans to unveil over 17 models in 2024

    In the middle of a major change, such as the renaming of NokiaMobile accounts to HMD, some thought Nokia’s legacy was over. But the truth lies in HMD Global’s strategic decision to focus on establishing the HMD brand as a new powerhouse in the smartphone industry.

    Nokia is living, not dead

    The GSMChina team is dedicated to following developments in the industry and has revealed reliable information pointing to the launch of 17 new Nokia phones in 2024. It is crucial to recognize the current official agreement between Nokia and HMD, which runs until 2026 and ensures that the iconic Nokia brand will continue to grace the mobile market.

    While the IMEI Database does not reveal the detailed specifications of these upcoming devices, the confirmed existence of these 17 models has increased anticipation among Nokia enthusiasts. The model numbers, ranging from TA-1603 to TA-1628, indicate a comprehensive range of options catering to a variety of consumer needs. While these devices are currently in the testing phase and specific release dates remain unclear, there is speculation that some could debut at the upcoming Mobile World Congress.

    HMD Phones coming soon

    Looking ahead, we will see if the frequency of new product announcements will continue beyond 2026. There is a possibility that Nokia will announce products less frequently while maintaining its presence in the market, allowing HMD Global Oy to focus on establishing the HMD brand as a pioneer in the competitive world of smartphones.

  • Nokia and Vivo Strike a Long-Term 5G Patent Cross-Licensing Deal

    Nokia and Vivo Strike a Long-Term 5G Patent Cross-Licensing Deal

    Vivo and Nokia have announced a multi-year patent cross-licensing agreement, putting an end to their legal battle over 5G technology. This agreement comes shortly after Nokia settled a similar dispute with Oppo, another brand under the BBK Electronics portfolio.

    Vivo gains access to Nokia’s cellular technology patents

    Under the terms of the agreement, Vivo will gain access to Nokia’s foundational cellular technology patents. However, Vivo will be required to make ongoing payments to Nokia for the use of these patents. These payments will also include “catch-up” fees that will cover the period of the dispute. This agreement settles all outstanding legal matters between the two companies.

    Background on the legal conflict

    Nokia initiated a legal conflict by claiming that brands under the BBK Electronics portfolio, including Vivo and Oppo, were infringing on 5G wireless communication technology patents. This eventually led to a lawsuit, resulting in a defeat for these smartphone brands in court.

    As a consequence of the court ruling, Oppo, Vivo, OnePlus, and Realme had to withdraw from the German market. However, the recent 5G patent agreement between Oppo, Vivo, and Nokia opens a way for BBK brands to re-enter the German market. In fact, OnePlus has already started selling its latest OnePlus 12 and 12R models in the country.

    Quotes from the involved parties

    Jenni Lukander, President of Nokia Technologies, expressed her satisfaction with the agreement, stating, “We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Vivo which reflects mutual respect for each other’s intellectual property rights. We look forward to bringing more innovation to their users around the world through our collaboration.”

    Vivo’s General Manager, Xianwen Xu, also expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing the company’s commitment to research and development and providing users with high-tech products.

    Vivo’s return to the German market

    This agreement is particularly significant as it paves the way for Vivo’s return to the German market, which is a key market for the company. It is worth noting that this is Nokia’s sixth major smartphone licensing agreement in the past 13 months. The company has already signed deals with Apple, Samsung, Oppo, Honor, and Huawei.

  • Royalty Payment Condition Forms Part of Nokia and OPPO’s 5G Patent Cross License Agreement

    Royalty Payment Condition Forms Part of Nokia and OPPO’s 5G Patent Cross License Agreement

    Nokia and Oppo Sign Patent Cross-License Agreement

    Nokia and Oppo have recently announced a significant multi-year patent cross-license agreement, effectively resolving all ongoing patent disputes between the two companies. The specific terms of the agreement have not been disclosed to the public.

    A Collaboration Built on Mutual Respect

    Jenni Lukander, President of Nokia Technologies, expressed her excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the mutual respect for each other’s intellectual property. She also highlighted Nokia’s contributions to research and development (R&D) and open standards. This agreement is expected to bring long-term financial stability to Nokia’s licensing business.

    Feng Ying, Oppo’s Chief Intellectual Property Officer, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the agreement as a foundation for future collaboration. Oppo, a prominent player in the global smartphone market, has consistently advocated for reasonable royalty fees and a constructive approach to resolving intellectual property disputes.

    Royalty Payments and Catch-Up Payments

    As part of the agreement, Oppo will make royalty payments to Nokia. This includes catch-up payments for periods of non-payment during the dispute resolution. The exact details of the royalty payments and catch-up payments have not been disclosed.

    The agreement between Nokia and Oppo marks a significant step towards establishing a mutually beneficial relationship between the two companies. By resolving their patent disputes, they can now focus on future collaborations and innovation in the smartphone industry.

    Conclusion

    Nokia and Oppo have put an end to their ongoing patent disputes through a multi-year patent cross-license agreement. With royalty payments and catch-up payments included, this agreement paves the way for future collaboration between the two companies. Both Nokia and Oppo emphasize the importance of mutual respect for intellectual property and a constructive approach to resolving disputes. This agreement is expected to bring long-term financial stability to Nokia’s licensing business and further strengthen Oppo’s position in the global smartphone market.

  • Nokia G42 5G Receives Android 14 Software Update

    Nokia G42 5G Receives Android 14 Software Update

    Nokia G42 5G Receives Android 14 Update with Exciting New Features

    HMD Global has recently released the highly anticipated Android 14 update for its Nokia G42 5G smartphone. This update, labeled version 2.160, brings a plethora of new features and enhancements to the device. With a sizeable download of 2.68GB, users can expect a significant upgrade to their smartphone experience. Additionally, this update includes the December 2023 Google security patch, ensuring the device remains secure.

    Health Data Management

    One of the standout features of the Android 14 update for the Nokia G42 5G is the improved Health Data Management. This update introduces a more user-friendly approach to tracking health data, making it easier than ever for users to monitor their wellness. With this new feature, users can effortlessly keep track of their health and make informed decisions about their well-being.

    App Data Permissions

    Another noteworthy improvement in the update is the enhanced App Data Permissions. Users will now have clearer information about app data permissions, simplifying the process of granting or denying access. This added transparency ensures that users have full control over their data and can manage their app permissions with ease.

    Inclusive Visual and Hearing Features

    The Android 14 update for the Nokia G42 5G introduces inclusive visual and hearing features. These features aim to cater to a wider range of users by providing options such as camera and screen flashes for notifications, larger fonts for improved readability, and smarter scaling for enhanced accessibility. With these additions, the Nokia G42 5G becomes more inclusive and user-friendly.

    Battery Life Improvements

    Managing battery life is a top priority for smartphone users, and the Android 14 update addresses this concern by introducing battery life improvements. Users can now view their screen time since the last full charge, allowing for better battery management. This feature empowers users to make informed decisions about their device usage and optimize their battery life accordingly.

    Customization Options

    The Nokia G42 5G now offers enhanced customization options with the Android 14 update. Users can enjoy a new lock screen picker, templates for personalized customization, a monochromatic theme for a sleek and modern look, and support for Ultra HDR images. These customization options allow users to truly make their Nokia G42 5G their own.

    Predictive Back Gestures and Improved Sharing

    The Android 14 update brings predictive back gestures to the Nokia G42 5G, enhancing the overall user experience. With this feature, users can navigate their device more intuitively and efficiently. Additionally, the update introduces improved sharing options, streamlining the process of sharing content with others. These enhancements make everyday tasks on the Nokia G42 5G even more seamless.

    Nokia G42 5G Specifications

    In addition to the exciting new features brought by the Android 14 update, the Nokia G42 5G boasts impressive specifications. It features a 6.56-inch HD+ display with a smooth 90Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 3 protection, ensuring a vibrant and durable screen. Powered by a Snapdragon 480+ SoC, the Nokia G42 5G delivers reliable performance for various tasks and applications.

    The smartphone is available in two memory configurations, allowing users to choose the option that suits their needs. The camera setup includes a 50 MP main camera, capturing stunning photos and videos, and an 8 MP front camera for high-quality selfies and video calls.

    Additional specifications of the Nokia G42 5G include a 3.5mm audio jack for convenient audio connectivity, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking, IP52 dust and splash resistance for added durability, and a range of connectivity options to stay connected wherever you go. The device is powered by a robust 5000mAh battery with 20W fast charging support, ensuring long-lasting usage without frequent recharging.

    With the Android 14 update and its impressive specifications, the Nokia G42 5G continues to provide users with a compelling smartphone experience. From improved health data management to enhanced customization options, this update brings a host of features that elevate the overall usability of the device. Whether it’s for work, entertainment, or staying connected, the Nokia G42 5G with the Android 14 update is ready to meet the demands of modern smartphone users.

  • Exclusive: Nokia Devices Available Only on HMD Website from February 1st

    Exclusive: Nokia Devices Available Only on HMD Website from February 1st

    Nokia Devices Now Exclusively Offered on HMD Global’s Platform

    Effective February 1st, HMD Global will exclusively feature all Nokia phones and tablets on its website, marking a significant shift in Nokia’s strategic business approach and brand representation.

    Reports Indicating the Transition

    While HMD Global has not officially confirmed this move, unofficial information from recipients of the MyApp newsletter, who own Nokia devices, hints at the ongoing shift. Notably, changes on Nokia’s official website, such as the elimination of the "Phone" category, signify this evolving landscape. Users seeking Nokia phones must now navigate to a specific link provided on the website.

    Brand Evolution at HMD Global

    Alongside consolidating Nokia’s range on its online platform, HMD Global is said to be focusing on its own brand evolution. This indicates a conscious effort to distance itself from the Nokia brand. Through the removal of the "Phone" section on Nokia’s website, HMD Global is emphasizing its unique brand identity and positioning in the market.

    Implications for Consumers

    The centralization of all Nokia phones and tablets on HMD Global’s website benefits consumers by offering a unified platform for browsing and purchasing these devices. This streamlined approach simplifies the purchase process and provides a dedicated hub for Nokia products. By optimizing its online presence, HMD Global aims to enrich the overall consumer journey and solidify its standing in the competitive smartphone industry.

    Final Thoughts

    HMD Global’s choice to exclusively feature Nokia devices on its platform signifies a strategic realignment in Nokia’s business strategy and brand representation. Although not officially confirmed, insights from Nokia device users suggest that this transition is unfolding. Through its brand refinement and detachment from the Nokia label, HMD Global seeks to carve a distinctive niche in the market. The accessibility of Nokia products on the HMD Global website now offers consumers a straightforward experience, streamlining the purchasing process and elevating overall consumer satisfaction.

  • Nokia, Honor Partner on 5G Patent Exchange

    Nokia, Honor Partner on 5G Patent Exchange

    Nokia and Honor Enter Cross-Licensing Deal for 5G Patents

    Recently, Nokia and Honor inked a significant cross-licensing agreement focused on 5G patents, a strategic move poised to benefit both entities and propel advancements within the 5G technology sphere. This milestone agreement, unveiled on January 4th, encompasses pivotal innovations within 5G and various cellular networks, marking Nokia’s fourth substantial pact on smartphone patents in the past year.

    Although the specific terms of the arrangement remain undisclosed, both parties have expressed contentment with the accord. Susanna Martikainen, the Chief Licensing Officer at Nokia, underscored the robustness of their patent portfolio and their extensive contributions to mobile technology spanning decades. Honor’s representative, Zhou Wenyu, accentuated their dedication to preserving intellectual property rights and ensuring equitable pricing for essential patents.

    By sidestepping the specter of potential legal disputes, this agreement cultivates collaboration on critical 5G technologies between two prominent stalwarts in the mobile industry. Notably, Nokia has channeled over €140 billion into research and development (R&D) since 2000, culminating in roughly 20,000 patent families, inclusive of more than 6,000 crucial patents pertinent to 5G. This represents Nokia’s fourth significant smartphone patent deal in the last twelve months.

    Honor views this agreement as a testimony to their unwavering commitment to nurturing innovation and safeguarding intellectual property rights. The company continues to make substantial investments in R&D, with purported allocations of approximately 10% of their revenue towards maintaining a competitive edge. Moreover, their tally of global patent applications has now exceeded the 20,000 threshold.

    This development comes on the heels of a recent ruling by a Chinese court favoring Nokia in a patent royalty dispute with another mobile phone manufacturer, establishing a global benchmark for patent litigation associated with 2G-5G standard essential patents.

    Interestingly, Nokia had previously struck deals with Samsung in early 2023 and Apple in July, further solidifying its standing in the ever-evolving 5G patent landscape with the addition of Honor to its consortium.