Nokia 6.1

The Nokia 6.1, also known as Nokia 6 (2018), was a part of Nokia’s revamped lineup under HMD Global, aiming to offer a blend of solid build quality, clean software, and good overall performance. Here’s an in-depth review of the Nokia 6.1:

Overview:

Launched in 2018, the Nokia 6.1 was an upgrade to the previous year’s Nokia 6. It was a part of Nokia’s commitment to offering well-built devices with a clean software experience, thanks to its Android One partnership.

Features:

• Operating System: Shipped with Android 8.1 Oreo, under the Android One program, ensuring regular updates and a stock Android experience. It was later upgradeable to newer Android versions.
• Display: 5.5-inch IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels.
• Processor: Qualcomm SDM630 Snapdragon 630 Octa-core.
• Memory: Options of 3/4 GB RAM with 32/64 GB internal storage, expandable via microSD.
• Camera: 16 MP rear camera with Zeiss optics and an 8 MP front camera.
• Battery: 3000 mAh non-removable battery with fast charging support.
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 5.0, NFC (in certain regions), and GPS.
• Other Features: Rear-mounted fingerprint sensor, USB Type-C, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

Pros:

• Build Quality: The Nokia 6.1 boasted an aluminum unibody design, giving it a robust and premium feel.
• Clean Software: Being a part of the Android One program, the device offered a stock Android experience, ensuring a bloat-free experience and timely updates.
• Performance: The Snapdragon 630 chipset provided a decent performance boost over its predecessor.
• Camera: With Zeiss optics, the camera performance was commendable for its price, especially in well-lit conditions.

Cons:

• Battery Life: The 3000 mAh battery was considered average, with some competitors offering larger batteries in the same segment.
• Low-light Camera Performance: The camera struggled in low-light conditions, producing grainy images.
• Design: While the build was solid, the design was considered a bit dated, especially with the industry moving towards taller, bezel-less displays.

Comparisons to Other Technologies:

In 2018, the Nokia 6.1 faced competition from various devices in the mid-range segment:

• Motorola Moto G6: Offering a glass design, clean software, and a focus on camera capabilities.
• Xiaomi Redmi Note 5 Pro: Known for its powerful specs, larger battery, and MIUI software experience.
• Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1: With its massive battery and stock Android experience.

Launch Date:

The Nokia 6.1 was announced in January 2018 and released in April 2018.

Common Issues/Problems:

• Software Bugs: Some users reported occasional software glitches, though many were addressed in subsequent updates.
• Speaker Quality: The single bottom-firing speaker was not the loudest and lacked depth.
• Slow Charging: Despite supporting fast charging, the device took a considerable amount of time to charge fully.

Conclusion:

The Nokia 6.1 was a testament to HMD Global’s commitment to reviving the Nokia brand in the smartphone market. It combined a premium build, clean software, and decent performance at a competitive price point. While it had its shortcomings, the device was well-received by those looking for a balanced smartphone experience with the promise of timely updates. The Nokia 6.1 was a part of Nokia’s broader strategy to regain trust and market share by focusing on build quality and software purity.