Huawei Nova 2 Plus

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus  64GB variant is priced at around 1,199 QAR, while the 128GB version costs approximately 1,399 QAR. These prices may vary slightly across different stores and online platforms in Qatar.

Detailed Specifications Table

Feature	Specification
Display	5.5 inches, LTPS IPS LCD, 1080 x 1920 pixels
Processor	HiSilicon Kirin 659, Octa-core
RAM	4 GB
Storage	64 GB / 128 GB, expandable via microSD
Main Camera	Dual: 12 MP (f/1.8) + 8 MP
Selfie Camera	20 MP, f/2.0
Battery	3340 mAh, non-removable
Operating System	Android 7.0 (Nougat), EMUI 5.1

 

Release Date and Availability

Huawei released the Nova 2 Plus in June 2017. The phone quickly became available in Qatar and other global markets. Despite its age, the Nova 2 Plus remains a popular mid-range option for many users in Qatar due to its balanced features and affordable price point.

Design and Build Quality

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus features a sleek design with a metal body. It measures 153.9 x 74.9 x 6.9 mm and weighs 169 grams. The phone’s slim profile and lightweight build make it comfortable to hold and use.

The front of the device is dominated by the 5.5-inch display, with relatively slim bezels for its time. The rear houses the dual-camera setup and a fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking.

Display Technology

The Nova 2 Plus boasts a 5.5-inch LTPS IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels. This Full HD screen provides sharp images and vibrant colors. The display offers good visibility in various lighting conditions, making it suitable for outdoor use.

The screen-to-body ratio of approximately 72.3% was competitive for its release year, offering an immersive viewing experience for multimedia content and gaming.

Camera Capabilities

One of the standout features of the Huawei Nova 2 Plus is its camera system. The rear dual-camera setup consists of a 12 MP main sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and an 8 MP secondary sensor. This combination allows for improved depth perception and the popular bokeh effect in portrait shots.

The camera app offers various modes and features, including HDR, panorama, and manual controls for more advanced users.

The front-facing camera is a high-resolution 20 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture. This selfie camera is capable of capturing detailed self-portraits and is well-suited for video calls. The front camera also supports beautification features and a portrait mode, enhancing the overall selfie experience.

Performance and Hardware

Under the hood, the Huawei Nova 2 Plus is powered by the HiSilicon Kirin 659 chipset. This octa-core processor features four Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.36 GHz and four Cortex-A53 cores at 1.7 GHz. The processor is paired with 4 GB of RAM, which provides smooth multitasking capabilities for everyday use.

The device comes with either 64 GB or 128 GB of internal storage, catering to different user needs. For those requiring additional space, the Nova 2 Plus supports expandable storage via a microSD card slot, allowing users to add up to 256 GB of extra storage.

Software and User Interface

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus runs on Android 7.0 Nougat out of the box, with Huawei’s EMUI 5.1 skin on top. While not the latest version of Android, EMUI 5.1 offers a range of features and customization options.

The interface is user-friendly and includes useful additions like a one-handed mode, app twin for using multiple accounts, and various power-saving features.

Battery Life and Charging

The device is equipped with a 3340 mAh non-removable battery. This capacity is sufficient for a full day of moderate use for most users.

The Nova 2 Plus supports fast charging, allowing for quicker recharge times compared to standard charging methods. However, it’s worth noting that the phone does not support wireless charging, which is common for devices in its price range and release year.

Connectivity Options

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus offers a range of connectivity options. It supports 4G LTE for fast mobile data, dual-band Wi-Fi for improved wireless internet connectivity, and Bluetooth 4.2 for connecting to wireless accessories. The device also includes GPS for navigation and location-based services.

A USB Type-C port is present for charging and data transfer, providing a more convenient and reversible connection compared to older micro-USB ports.

Audio and Multimedia

For audio, the Nova 2 Plus retains the 3.5mm headphone jack, allowing users to connect their favorite wired headphones without the need for an adapter. The device also features a single bottom-firing speaker for audio playback. While not stereo, the speaker provides adequate sound quality for casual listening and speakerphone calls.

Security Features

Security is an important aspect of any smartphone, and the Huawei Nova 2 Plus addresses this with a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor. This sensor allows for quick and secure unlocking of the device and can also be used for authorizing payments and accessing certain apps.

Additionally, the phone supports standard Android security features like pattern, PIN, and password locks.

Comparison with Other Smartphones

When compared to other smartphones in its price range and with similar specifications, the Huawei Nova 2 Plus holds its own, especially considering its release date. The device offers a good balance of features, including a capable camera system, decent performance, and a Full HD display.

In comparison to newer models like the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate, the Nova 2 Plus naturally falls short in terms of processing power, camera capabilities, and display technology. However, it remains a viable option for users who don’t require the latest features and prefer a more budget-friendly device.

Compared to contemporaries from other brands, such as certain Nokia, OnePlus, and Samsung models, the Nova 2 Plus offers competitive specifications. Its camera setup, in particular, was a strong selling point at the time of its release. However, newer budget and mid-range offerings from brands like Realme, Oppo, and Xiaomi often provide more recent software and improved performance at similar price points.

When considering alternatives, phones like the Samsung Galaxy A series, Xiaomi Redmi Note series, or Realme number series often offer more recent software updates and improved performance in the same price bracket. However, the specific model comparisons would depend on the current market offerings at the time of purchase.

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus faces competition from devices like the Tecno Spark and Infinix Hot series in the budget segment. These newer models often come with larger batteries, more recent Android versions, and sometimes higher refresh rate displays. However, the Nova 2 Plus may still appeal to users who prefer Huawei’s build quality and camera performance.

Target Audience and Use Cases

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus is well-suited for users who prioritize camera quality and design in a mid-range smartphone. It’s particularly appealing to photography enthusiasts who want a capable camera system without stepping into flagship territory.

The device is also a good fit for general users who need a reliable smartphone for everyday tasks like web browsing, social media, and light gaming.

Students and young professionals might find the Nova 2 Plus attractive due to its balance of features and affordable price point. The decent battery life and fast charging support make it suitable for users who are frequently on the go and need their phone to last throughout the day.

Huawei Mate XS 2

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Capable dual-camera system
2. High-resolution selfie camera
3. Sleek metal design
4. Full HD display
5. Expandable storage
6. Fast charging support

Cons:

1. Older Android version
2. No wireless charging
3. Not water-resistant
4. Processor may struggle with very demanding tasks
5. Limited long-term software support

Buying Guide

When considering purchasing the Huawei Nova 2 Plus in Qatar, it’s important to keep a few factors in mind:

1. Price comparison: Check prices across different retailers and online platforms to find the best deal.
2. Warranty: Ensure the device comes with a valid warranty for the Qatar market.
3. Storage options: Decide between the 64GB and 128GB variants based on your needs.
4. Color availability: The Nova 2 Plus comes in various colors, so check which options are available.
5. Accessories: Consider bundled deals that might include cases, screen protectors, or other accessories.

After-Sales Support and Services

Huawei provides after-sales support for the Nova 2 Plus through authorized service centers in Qatar. These centers offer repair services, software support, and general troubleshooting. It’s advisable to check the warranty terms and the location of nearby service centers when purchasing the device.

Software Updates and Long-Term Usage

While the Huawei Nova 2 Plus may not receive the latest Android updates due to its age, Huawei has historically provided security patches and EMUI updates for its devices. Users should be aware that they may not have access to the newest features found in more recent Android versions.

For long-term usage, the Nova 2 Plus can still serve as a reliable device for basic to moderate smartphone tasks. Its hardware is capable of handling everyday applications, though it may struggle with the most demanding new apps and games.

Conclusion

The Huawei Nova 2 Plus, while not the newest smartphone on the market, offers a compelling package for users in Qatar looking for a mid-range device with a focus on camera quality. Its price point makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who still want a capable and stylish smartphone.

The device’s strengths lie in its camera system, build quality, and balanced overall performance. However, potential buyers should consider the older Android version and limited long-term software support when making their decision.

For those who prioritize having the latest features and software, exploring more recent models from Huawei or other brands might be advisable. However, for users who appreciate a well-rounded device at an affordable price, the Huawei Nova 2 Plus remains a worthy consideration in the Qatari smartphone market.