Despite Nokia not being a new entrant into the smartphone market, there still are a lot of confusing things and unanswered questions about Nokia phones and the brand at large. There the ‘who actually produces Nokia smartphones?’ question, ‘how durable can they get?’, ‘which device is the best Nokia branded smartphone that’s worth buying’ and a whole lot more.
Nokia Phone Buying Guide
While we have provided answers to some questions about Nokia smartphones , we bring to you some of the best things to look out for before you buy your next Nokia smartphone as well as some tips to help you pick up a Nokia phone that will serve its purpose.
Why you might want a Nokia Smartphone
Nokia was once a very big shark in the smartphone sea about a decade ago. But that popularity tanked due to some reasons like Nokia’s resistance to adopting change, low sales, fierce competition from old & new OEMs, financial turmoil etc. But ever since the company’s operation has been handled by HMD Global, Nokia has churned out a lot of smartphones that have quickly become people’s favourite. Here’s some reason why you might want to pick up a Nokia-branded device as your next smartphone:
Stock Android
All Nokia’s post-HMD Global devices all run the stock, unaltered, unfiltered version of Google’s Android operating system. This means no bloatware and you get a faster, cleaner, more efficient phone, and faster updates.
Made for Everyone
When Nokia made its comeback to the smartphone manufacturing scene, the company makes smartphones for everyone. From feature phones to low-end devices, mid-range, and high-end flagship, there is a Nokia smartphone out there that fits right into your budget and needs.
Feature-packed
Nokia phones are packed with trending and top-of-the-line features you could ever want in a smartphone. If there is any specific you’d love your phone to have (say wireless charging, water-resistance, bezel-less display, notched display, top-quality camera etc) there’s a Nokia smartphone to buy.
But before we proceed to highlight some key features of some Nokia smartphones and why you might want them, let’s have a brief look at how Nokia phones are categorized.
Nokia Phones: Series and Categories
Unlike manufacturers that adopt an alphabetical fashion of naming their smartphone series (like Samsung Galaxy A and J series), Nokia uses a OnePlus-esque nomenclature. Nokia Android smartphones are available from Nokia 1 to Nokia 8 (presently), with Nokia 9 coming soon. These Nokia phones are categorized as low-end, mid-range, and high-end as their numbers ascend.
For example, Nokia 1 and Nokia 2 are low-end and low-budget models, Nokia 3, 5, and 6 are mid-rangers, Nokia 7 and 7.1 Plus are in the upper mid-range category while Nokia 8 and Nokia 8 Sirocco are high-priced and high-end Nokia flagships.
Interestingly, Nokia, once widely renowned for manufacturing and selling feature phones, is still very much in the business of making feature phones.
Nokia Phones: Highlight Features and Price
Nokia 3310 (2017)
This is a one of the best Nokia-branded feature phones to buy as it is a modern remake one of Nokia’s earliest flagship feature phone, the Nokia 3310.
Nokia 3310 (2017)
The Nokia 3310 (2017) retains the rigidity of its predecessor and with even more interesting modifications/additions like a better display, 2MP camera with LED flash, micro SD card slot, micro SD card slot, better battery. Available in Gray, Yellow and Dark Blue, the Nokia 3310 (2017) costs between $45 to $70.
Nokia 8110 4G
If you are a lover of anything retro, this is a feature phone from Nokia you’d love. The Nokia 8110 4G comes in a curved ‘banana’ design and a slider keyboard that takes users back to the past. It also packs a lot of modern specs you’d find on smartphones like 4G capabilities, 4GB built-in storage, 512MB RAM, 2MP camera with flash, WiFi etc.
The device is available in Black and Banana Yellow colors and also supports Google Assistant, Twitter, Facebook etc. The Nokia 8110 4G starts from $70.
Nokia 2
This is a 5.0-inch entry-level Android Nougat smartphone from Nokia. The device launched with a built-in 4,100mAh battery as its selling point. The Nokia 2, can supply uninterrupted 2 days on usage. So if you are an Android newbie, or live in a region with epileptic power supply, you should check out the Nokia 2.
Other features of the Nokia 2 include 1.3GHz Snapdragon 212 quad-core CPU, 1GB RAM, 8GB built-in storage, 8MP primary camera, and 5MP front-facing camera.
Nokia 3.1 Plus
Presently, this is one of the best mid-range Nokia smartphone to buy. You’d enjoy a big 6-inch display with HD+ resolution in slim 18:9 aspect ratio. The Nokia 3.1 Plus also comes with 3GB of RAM, dual (13MP + 5MP) camera setup on the rear, 8MP front-facing camera, and an upgraded 3,500mAh battery. All these and more…for $155 only. Mid-range at its best.
Nokia 5
Also a mid-range device from the HMD Global-owned company, the Nokia 5 was released in 2017 and is available for about $200. Being a 2017 device, there Nokia 5 sports some features that might —at the moment— be considered as ‘old school’. There’s a physical home button below the display (also doubles as the device’s fingerprint scanner) that adds to the chunk of bezels the devices come with.
However, on the inside, the Nokia 5 is decent and is good value for money: Android v7.1 (upgradable to Android Oreo), 3GB RAM, 1.4GHz Octa-core Snapdragon 430 CPU, and 3,000mAh battery.
Nokia 6.1 Plus
Also called the Nokia X6, this is the first Nokia phone to come with a display notch. The device comes with a 5.8-inch wide-angle display with a notch that houses the 16MP front-facing camera, earpiece, and other sensors. Other features include 4GB/6GB RAM, 64GB built-in memory, micro SD card support up to 400GB, Android 8.1 Oreo, Qualcomm Snapdragon 636 system-on-chip, dual 16MP + 5MP rear camera, and 3,060mAh battery with Quick charge support via USB-C port.
Nokia 8 Sirocco
Nokia 8 Sirocco
This is the King of Nokia phones in terms of flagship-standard specifications, price, and class. If you, as an absolute (or soon-to-be) Nokia fan need to cop the best available Nokia phone right now, the Nokia 8 Sirocco is the one.
Announced February 2018, the $480 Nokia 8 Sirocco doesn’t come with a notch like the Nokia X6 but boasts of a 5.5-inch Always-on OLED display with FHD+ resolution and 534ppi display density. The display is covered by a 3D curved Corning Gorilla Glass 5 on the front and the same version of Gorilla Glass is also used on the rear.
The Nokia 8 Sirocco is an upgrade to the Nokia 8 and comes with an IP67 rating which makes it the best water-resistant Nokia smartphone. It also sports the best camera on a Nokia smartphone: dual 12MP + 13MP Carl Zeiss optics with dual-tone dual-LED flash on the rear and a 5MP shooter on the front.
Nokia 9 (upcoming)
This is the latest Nokia flagship which HMD Global is planning to release soon. Although it still is in the works, the best thing about this device (that we know) is that it will come with five cameras on the back and will be one of the best smartphone camera(s) in the world — even better than the Samsung Galaxy A9 (2018) with four rear cameras.
Upcoming Nokia 9 with Penta-camera
The Nokia 9 will be officially announced before the year ends or in Q1 2019. If you intend purchasing the Nokia 8 or Nokia 8 Sirocco now, you might as well just wait for this monster to launch.
Other Nokia Phones
Feature Phone : Nokia 3310 4G, Nokia 105 (2017), Nokia 130 (2017), Nokia 150, Nokia 150 (Dual SIM),
Entry-level : Nokia 1, Nokia 2.1, Nokia 3
Mid-range : Nokia X5, Nokia X7, Nokia 5.1 Plus, Nokia 7
High-end flagships : Nokia 7 Plus, Nokia 8.
Sodiq Olamide is a tech writer based in Nigeria, covering the latest reviews, how-tos, and news on consumer tech trends with a unique African perspective. Whether analyzing emerging technologies or offering practical guides, Sodiq brings a deep understanding of how technology shapes lives across the continent.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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