Nokia Android phones release date, news & update: Smartphones expected 2016-end; Powerful camera and other top specs expected

If reports are to be believed, Nokia is all set to get back its glory days by releasing a number of smartphones and tablets by the end of 2016. Nokia was once the pioneer in the mobile phone industry and this reveal comes from Mike Wang, Nokia China President, who recently spoke to Chinese site The Paper.

According to Android Authority, the new Nokia smartphones have been confirmed for Q4 of 2016 although Nokia wouldn’t be the one making the devices. They are reportedly being manufactured by a company dubbed HMD.

Specifications of the smartphones are not clear at this stage. Earlier reports had suggested two variants, one with a 5.2-inch display and the other with a 5.5-inch one. QHD displays with metal shells are expected in both. A high-end Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 chipset along with dust and water-resistant features are also expected.

A 22.6MP camera and Android 7.0 Nougat are also expected. Such top features will put the Nokia smartphones in the category of Samsung Galaxy S7, writes Mobile & Apps. Nokia may also introduce its own implementation of Android and its exclusive programs.

Rumours suggest that the smartphones are at a prototype stage. Another launch may also be scheduled for the MWC 2017. The Nokia devices may not get custom SoCs from either Foxconn or HMD due to financial and technological reasons. Software will play a critical role in the success of the Nokia phones and tablets.

Exclusive technologies and capabilities are expected in the smartphones as Nokia may control some aspects such as performance, design and certain features. The company is expected to make an announcement before the end of 2016 and the actual launch may happen in 2017. HMD is expected to launch two Nokia feature phones in the next six months.

Stay tuned on IBT AU for more updates on Nokia Android smartphones.