Nokia releases tough outdoor 5G smartphone "XR20 5G": Yasuhiro Yamane's overseas mobile exploration

HMD Global, which is steadily introducing new Nokia brand smartphones centered on mid-range and entry-level models, has released a slightly different model. It is a tough smartphone "Nokia XR20" for outdoor use.

[Correction: 19:50 on December 8, 2021 There was an error in the company name of HMD Global when it first appeared. We apologize for the correction. ]

Five models of Nokia's 5G smartphones have been released since the beginning of 2021. In both cases, the processor is Snapdragon 480, and the camera "Nokia X20" is equipped with 64 million pixels, and 48 million pixels is the highest image quality, and it is only a product with a low price. The rival is not the high-end model of Samsung or Apple, but the cost performance model of a Chinese manufacturer aiming at the volume zone. However, if that happens, it will be a price match, and tough competition awaits. Therefore, the XR20 is trying to differentiate itself as a product with tough specifications.

The main body is made of resin, but it seems to have a structure that is hard to break, and the back has been treated to prevent slipping. IP68 waterproof/dustproof (dust), compliant with MIL-STD-810G. It would be better if the cover came off and the battery could be replaced, but it would be better if it didn't come off, considering things like dropping it into the water.

The "NOKIA" logo on the right side is proud. The top and bottom of the side are thicker to increase impact resistance when dropped. The power key also serves as a fingerprint authentication sensor, but it is placed in a recessed position from the side, making it easy to touch the key with just the feel of your fingertips. Volume keys are separated up and down. This is probably due to consideration of operation in dark places.

Google Assistant key on the left side. In addition, this XR20 may be a product that is considering light outdoor use, such as going out for a hike every week on holidays, rather than full-scale outdoor use. The overall design is also stylish.

I thought it would be useful to assign other functions to this Google Assistant key, but the program key is actually on the top of the main unit. It was The red key is an SOS call by default, and you can call the registered phone number with one touch. You can also register your favorite apps.

A 3.5mm headphone jack is provided at the bottom of the main unit.

Let's take another look at the camera. The partnership with Zeiss is similar to other models, with Zeiss partnering with Sony, vivo, and Nokia (HMD Global) on camera technology. The out-camera is a 48-megapixel dual-lens camera combined with an ultra-wide-angle 13-megapixel. In fact, the XR20 is the first Nokia 5G smartphone equipped with an ultra-wide-angle 13-megapixel camera. Is this camera combination also trying to give a somewhat premium feeling?

I tried shooting videos using the familiar dual cameras of Nokia smartphones such as "Dual Sight", but the image quality is not bad. hey. Smartphones with tough specifications are produced by medium-sized manufacturers, but they are full-fledged, and for everyday use, the design of this XR20 may be good. The finish of the main body is not bad as expected from Nokia, but there is a big barrier to purchase. It's expensive.

The price of the XR20 is $549.99, or about 63,000 yen. You shouldn't simply think of it as a Snapdragon 480-equipped device, but there are many other manufacturers, especially Chinese manufacturers, that can be purchased for less than 50,000 yen for Snapdragon 700 series models. Xiaomi's "Mi 11" released in Japan is equipped with Dimensity 1200 and costs 54,800 yen. My personal impression is that although it has a tough specification, it should have been priced at around $499.

HMD Global probably raised the price by adding high value to parts other than the main unit specs, but I'm curious about how much it will sell and whether there will be a price reduction around the beginning of the year.