Despite owning Nokia’s devices division, the Redmond giant keeps pursuing Nokia’s plans to launch Android devices that run Microsoft services. After the original X series, we now have the Nokia X2 which — I’m sad to say — isn’t that much better than its predecessor(s). Sure, it comes with 1GB of RAM, the fact that should make multi-tasking between few apps that much faster, as well as the ever needed home button which for some reason was missing in the earlier Nokia X models. But, it’s still something we would describe as an entry-level device in this day and age, featuring a 1.2Ghz dual-core processor, 4.3-inch screen, 5-megapixel rear camera and some front-facing shooter (most likely VGA) for video calls. In other words, we’re talking about the phone that is best compared to the Galaxy S2, Samsung’s flagship for 2012. That phone was launched three years ago which is like eternity in this [mobile] world.
Alas, Microsoft isn’t going for geeks but folks looking to spend no more than 100 Euros on their handset purchase. And that’s exactly the price users will have to pay in order to get the Nokia X2 sans any strings attached. The phone will hit select countries globally in glossy green, orange and black; with glossy yellow, white and matt dark grey variants following shortly afterwards.
What makes Nokia’s Android gear different from the rest of the pack is that it lacks Google’s apps and services, offering those made by Microsoft, instead. If you can live without Google Maps and GMail, perhaps this is the phone for you. Otherwise, you’re much better off getting… pretty much any other device. Even some phones made by little-known Chinese companies will get you further in the “Android world.” Or so we think…