Nokia 3.1

The Nokia 3.1 was a part of Nokia’s revamped lineup under HMD Global, targeting the budget segment of the smartphone market. Launched in 2018, the Nokia 3.1 aimed to offer a reliable and pure Android experience in a compact and affordable package. Here’s an in-depth review of the Nokia 3.1:

Overview:

The Nokia 3.1 was designed for users who wanted a straightforward, no-frills smartphone experience with the assurance of regular software updates, thanks to its Android One certification. With its compact design and decent build quality, it catered to users looking for a budget-friendly yet dependable device.

Features:

1. Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.0 (Oreo) as part of the Android One program, ensuring regular updates and a stock Android experience.
2. Display: 5.2-inch IPS LCD with a resolution of 720 x 1440 pixels.
3. Processor: MediaTek MT6750.
4. Memory: Options of 2 GB/3 GB RAM with 16 GB/32 GB internal storage, expandable via microSDXC.
5. Camera: 13 MP primary sensor with an f/2.0 aperture. The front camera is an 8 MP shooter.
6. Battery: A 2990 mAh non-removable battery.
7. Other Features: 3.5mm headphone jack, NFC (in certain models).

Pros:

1. Android One: The device’s Android One certification meant a bloat-free, stock Android experience with the promise of regular security and OS updates.
2. Build Quality: Despite its budget positioning, the Nokia 3.1 boasted a solid build with an aluminum frame.
3. Compact Design: The 5.2-inch display made the device easy to handle and use with one hand.
4. Price: Being a budget device, it offered good value for its price point.

Cons:

1. Performance: The MediaTek MT6750, combined with limited RAM, was sufficient for basic tasks but could struggle with multitasking and more demanding apps.
2. Battery Life: The 2990 mAh battery was adequate but not outstanding, especially when compared to competitors with larger batteries.
3. Camera Performance: While decent in well-lit conditions, the camera struggled in low-light scenarios.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In its price bracket, the Nokia 3.1 faced competition from:

• Moto E5: Offering a 5.7-inch IPS LCD display, Snapdragon 425, and a 4000 mAh battery.
• Samsung Galaxy J4: With its 5.5-inch Super AMOLED display, Exynos 7570 Quad, and a 3000 mAh battery.
• Xiaomi Redmi 6: Featuring a 5.45-inch IPS LCD display, MediaTek Helio P22, and a dual-camera setup.

Launch Date:

The Nokia 3.1 was announced in May 2018 and became available in various markets shortly after.

Common Issues/Problems:

1. Software Performance: Some users reported occasional slowdowns and stutters, especially when running multiple apps.
2. Camera Quality: The camera, while decent for the price, was not the best in its segment, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
3. Storage: The base model with 16 GB of storage could quickly fill up, making a microSD card almost essential for many users.

Conclusion:

The Nokia 3.1 was a commendable offering in the budget segment, especially for those who prioritize software experience and build quality. Its Android One certification and solid build made it stand out in a crowded market. While it had its limitations, especially in terms of performance and camera quality, its overall package was quite compelling for its price segment. For users looking for a basic device with a clean software experience and decent build, the Nokia 3.1 was a good choice. However, those looking for better performance, camera capabilities, or battery life might have considered other options available in the market at the time.