Nokia X (Normandy)

Verdict

The fling between Nokia and Android may not have the blessings of the couple s parents (that would be Microsoft and Google, respectively), to take a very crude analogy. However, the pair s lovechild was always expected to be a killer gadget. The Nokia X, to some extent, doesn t really live up to those expectations – the fixed focus snapper isn t impressive, the performance and battery life are so-so, and the fact that it doesn t give you the full Android experience sours the deal even further. And at the MRP of Rs 8,599, it doesn t really come out as a value-for-money device. On the positive... Read Full Verdict

The fling between Nokia and Android may not have the blessings of the couple s parents (that would be Microsoft and Google, respectively), to take a very crude analogy. However, the pair s lovechild was always expected to be a killer gadget. The Nokia X, to some extent, doesn t really live up to those expectations – the fixed focus snapper isn t impressive, the performance and battery life are so-so, and the fact that it doesn t give you the full Android experience sours the deal even further. And at the MRP of Rs 8,599, it doesn t really come out as a value-for-money device. On the positive side, the build quality is very good, it s got useful features like dual-SIM support and FM radio, and the UI is simple and intuitive. Comparing the Nokia X with its WP-toting sibling, the Lumia 520, the latter stands out as a more compelling device. It s not only a a tad cheaper, it has better specs too. If we were to pit the Nokia X against a similarly-priced Android device, the XOLO Q800 X-edition for example, Nokia s offering seems even less compelling. Let s take a different angle now. Consider this scenario. A prospective buyer walks into a store looking for an affordable smartphone, and is told about the new Nokia device that runs Android. We re pretty sure that someone who isn t too savvy with the smartphone world, but has heard about the advantages of Android, wouldn t require a lot of convincing. It s to Nokia s credit that the brand still enjoys that kind of popularity with the masses. With due respect to other brands that offer better specced Android handsets in the same price bracket, the Nokia X doesn t need a hard sell despite being priced a tad higher. Even though a difference in price as tiny as Rs 500 or Rs 1,000 may be significant enough for some, Nokia s pull is hard to argue, especially in a country where a lot of people place their faith and trust in the brand. Just like Tata is synonymous with reliability and Maruti with VFM, Nokia signifies peace of mind in the mobile world. And if you choose to buy it, that s exactly what you ll be paying for. In short, despite its limitations, the Nokia X is still worth a look, especially for those buying their first smartphone. Price: Rs 8,599 Editor s rating: 7 10 Pros Nokia and Android playing together for the very first time Sturdy build and vivid hues Simple and intuitive interface Most Android apps supported, sideloading is an option too Nokia s signature services, including Here Maps and MixRadio Cons Middling specs No support for Google services No proper multitasking Front shooter missing in action 3MP fixed-focus shooter delivers so-so results A few performance hiccups