Nokia demoed its first Android smartphone line, called Nokia X products, at the Mobile World Congress. Unlike with Google-based devices, the X line doesn't feature Play Store or Google services, but users can sideload Android apps and get full access to HERE maps, Skype and SkyDrive.

MWC 2014: Nokia X

Nokia featured three new smartphones under the X line, namely Nokia X, Nokia X+ and Nokia XL. Contrast to Lumia and Asha, the Nokia X line runs Android OS by Google but doesn't include Google apps or services including the Play Store.

Users of the Nokia X line gets full access to Nokia HERE maps; Microsoft One Drive, previously SkyDrive; and Skype. In terms of Android apps and games, users may use the Nokia's app store to download them and if not listed, they are obtainable via search or by simply sideloading the installers.

Sideloading Android apps may also include third-party home launchers, live wallpapers and more. Nokia X devices are compatible with more than 50 per cent of all Android apps which do not require any optimisation.

Favourite apps such as WhatsApp, Line, Swiftkey, Instagram and BlackbBerry Messenger are compatible with every Nokia X smartphone.

Nokia X Line Features

  1. Fastlane: Displays all recent apps and social activity in one place with swiping function on the home screen.
  2. Personalisation: Customise the home screen by resizing tiles and rearranging icons the way users want them.
  3. Free Call via Skype: Get 1 month free worldwide calls on Skype app.
  4. HERE Maps: Exclusive navigational map with free offline mapping.
  5. Radio Stations: Use Nokia MixRadio to personalise radio stations without any sign up or subscription needed.
  6. Accessories: Get compatible accessories from Nokia such as headphones and Bluetooth headset.

Nokia X Line Specifications

Tech Specs

Nokia X

Nokia X+

Nokia XL

OS VersionAndroid 4.1.2; Nokia X platformAndroid 4.1.2; Nokia X platformAndroid 4.1.2; Nokia X platform
Display4.0 inches, 800 x 480 IPS LCD4.0 inches, 800 x 480 IPS LCD5.0-inches, 800 x 480 IPS LCD
Processor1 GHz dual-core Snapdragon S41 GHz dual-core Snapdragon S41 GHz dual-core Snapdragon S4
RAM512 MB768 MB768 MB
Storage4 GB internal, up to 32 GB external4 GB internal, up to 32 GB external4 GB internal, up to 32 GB external
Rear Camera3.15 MP, 1/5" sensor, 480@30fps video3.15 MP, 1/5" sensor, 480@30fps video5 MP, 1/4" sensor, 480@30fps video
Front CameraNoneNone2 MP
Battery1,500 mAh1,500 mAh2,000 mAh
SpecialDual-SIM, sideloadingDual-SIM, sideloadingDual-SIM, sideloading

Nokia already open its doors for developers who want their apps optimised on the Nokia X line smartphones. According to its developer Web site, around 75 per cent of Android apps will run on the Nokia X software platform without any modifications necessary.