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Nokia unveils first global 5G device
HMD Global has unveiled the Nokia 8.3 5G, the first device that will work with every 5G standard in the world, making it compatible with every network.
HMD Global, the maker of Nokia phones, has announced its first 5G phone, the Nokia 8.3 5G. To differentiate itself, it has ensured the device can connect to every 5G standard available, making it the ideal device for those who want to use 5G networks all over the world. It also future-proofs the device in the case of a network switching 5G standards.
For context, not all 5G is the same. Some networks will be adopting 5G standards on the “sub 6” spectrum, which falls in the range of 450 MHz to 6,000 MHz. Others will use a much higher wavelength between 24GHz and 52GHz, called millimetre wave or mmWave. Within these bands, there are around 30 definitive frequencies that devices can support. Existing 5G devices support anywhere from 2 to 25 of these frequencies, which mean some 5G devices won’t work in every country.
Nokia’s latest 5G device supports every single 5G frequency that exists today, which makes it extremely attractive as a general device to be sold to the world, as well as a device consumers can rely on when roaming. That said, other devices that support fewer 5G frequencies will still probably connect to 4G networks in supported areas.
Future-proofing is the more important aspect, since we do not know what version networks are likely to adopt for their 5G standards, or when they will do so. This is entirely dependent on the spectrum being released and decommissioning older networks like GPRS, among other factors. This puts the Nokia 8.3 5G in a favourable position, making it ready for any decision a network may take in its 5G rollout.
Apart from having stellar network support, it features the Nokia-signature PureView quad camera with Zeiss optics. It debuts the Zeiss Cinema capture and editor, along with better low-light video recording. The quad-camera features a 64MP sensor, with a 12MP ultrawide camera, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. On the front, it features a 24MP selfie camera.
“I am incredibly proud of the innovations we have introduced today that build on our unique commitment to ensuring the Nokia smartphone experience will only get better over time,” said Florian Seiche, CEO of HMD Global. “Today we are kicking off a new chapter for HMD Global as we step into 5G with a truly global, future-proof smartphone.”
The device is expected to launch towards the middle of 2020, and local pricing, variants and availability will be announced at a later stage.
Read more on the next page about the range of Nokia’s other handsets announced at its event.
