Iconic Nokia 3310 "4G variant" with Android-OS, Wi-Fi hotspot launched
What's the story
HMD Global has "quietly" launched an all-new 4G variant of the classic Nokia 3310 in China.
It supports 4G VoLTE and runs Android-based Yun OS, owned by Alibaba. Users can turn the feature phone into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot.
The upgraded device has been listed on Nokia's official Chinese website. Details about its availability and price haven't been revealed yet.
Here's all about it.
Specs
Nokia 3310 4G sports a 2MP rear camera
Coming to the specifications, Nokia 3310 4G sports a 2.4-inch (320x240 resolution) display.
While there no information regarding its processor, reports say it could be a dual-core processor. It has 256MB RAM and 512MB internal storage (expandable up to 64GB via microSD).
It features a 2MP camera on the back with an LED flash. The device also has support for a web browser.
Others
Phone comes preloaded with several popular apps
One of the major differences between the 3310 4G variant and its previous variants is the additional connectivity option. The latest version supports 4G VoLTE, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, and Wi-Fi hotspot functionality.
It also comes with a 3.5mm audio jack and pre-installed apps for FM Radio, MP3 Player, reading books or novels, playing audio books, etc.
Reports suggest it may also support WhatsApp.
Battery
Don't expect the battery to last long on 4G
HMD launched the single-SIM Nokia 3310 4G in China, but it may release a dual-SIM variant, too.
The device comes with a removable 1,200mAh battery, which is slightly smaller for a 4G device. It offers a talk-time of 15 hours on 2G, 8 hours on 3G, and 5 hours on 4G and a standby-time of 15 days on 2G and 12 days on 4G.
Information
Looks a lot like the original 3310
The Nokia 3310 4G looks similar to the iconic original model, released in 2000. It would come in four color options: black, yellow, sky blue, and red. Last year, HMD Global launched two versions of Nokia 3310 - a 2G and a 3G variant.
Details
Availability and pricing of 3310 4G in India
The launch date of Nokia 3310 4G is still unknown, but reports claim HMD may launch the feature phone globally in March.
The phone maker is expected to announce more details at Mobile World Congress 2018 in Barcelona next month.
The device could come with a price-tag of Rs. 5,000, considering that the 2G variant itself was launched for Rs. 3,310 last year.
Jio Partership
Jio may partner with HMD to launch 3310 4G
Reliance Jio is reportedly in talks with HMD Global to launch the 4G variant of Nokia 3310 in India. The telco is expected to roll out voice and data offers bundled with it.
The 4G service provider is interested in building a "carrier partnership" for releasing "legacy" Nokia phones in the country.
Also, Jio may replace its existing JioPhone with a second-generation device soon.