Nokia G50

The Nokia G50 is available in two variants in Qatar. The 4GB RAM + 64GB storage model is priced at QAR 759, while the 6GB RAM + 128GB storage version costs QAR 859. These prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

The device is available in two color options: Midnight Sun and Ocean Blue.

Specifications of Nokia G50

Feature	Specification
Display	6.82 inches, LCD, 720 x 1560 pixels
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G
RAM	4GB/6GB
Storage	64GB/128GB, expandable via microSD
Main Camera	Triple: 48 MP (wide) + 5 MP (ultrawide) + 2 MP (depth)
Front Camera	8 MP (wide)
Battery	5000 mAh
Charging	Fast Charging, 18W
Operating System	Android 11
5G Connectivity	Yes

 

Release Date and Availability

The Nokia G50 was officially released on September 22, 2021, as part of Nokia’s strategy to bring affordable 5G devices to the market. It became available in Qatar shortly after its global launch, offering consumers in the country an opportunity to experience 5G technology without breaking the bank.

The device’s availability in Qatar has been consistent since its release, with major retailers and online stores stocking the smartphone.

Design and Build Quality

The Nokia G50 boasts a sleek and modern design that belies its affordable price point. With dimensions of 173.8 x 77.7 x 8.9 mm and weighing 220 grams, it’s a substantial device that feels solid in hand. The phone features a plastic back and frame, which helps keep the cost down while still providing a durable build.

The large 6.82-inch display dominates the front of the device, with a waterdrop notch housing the selfie camera. The power button on the side doubles as a fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking.

Display and Performance

One of the standout features of the Nokia G50 is its large 6.82-inch IPS LCD display. While the resolution of 720 x 1560 pixels might not be the sharpest on the market, it’s adequate for everyday use and helps conserve battery life. The display offers vibrant colors and good visibility in most lighting conditions, making it suitable for media consumption and casual gaming.

Under the hood, the Nokia G50 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G chipset. This octa-core processor, coupled with 4GB or 6GB of RAM depending on the variant, provides smooth performance for everyday tasks and light multitasking.

While it may not be a powerhouse for intensive gaming or heavy multitasking, it offers a balanced performance that caters well to the needs of most users. The inclusion of 5G support is a significant advantage, future-proofing the device and allowing users to take advantage of high-speed mobile networks as they become more widespread in Qatar.

Camera Capabilities

Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the Nokia G50’s versatile camera setup. The main camera array consists of a 48MP wide-angle lens, a 5MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. This combination allows for a range of photography options, from detailed close-ups to expansive landscape shots.

The main 48MP sensor performs well in good lighting conditions, capturing sharp images with good color reproduction. The ultra-wide lens is handy for group shots or scenic photos, while the depth sensor aids in creating pleasing bokeh effects in portrait mode.

For selfies and video calls, the Nokia G50 is equipped with an 8MP front-facing camera. While not the highest resolution available, it’s capable of taking decent self-portraits and is more than adequate for video conferencing. The camera app includes various modes and features, such as Night mode for low-light photography and AI enhancements to improve image quality automatically.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the most impressive aspects of the Nokia G50 is its battery life. The device is equipped with a large 5000 mAh battery, which, combined with the power-efficient processor and 720p display, allows for exceptional longevity. Many users report being able to use the phone for two full days on a single charge with moderate usage. This makes the Nokia G50 an excellent choice for those who prioritize battery life or frequently find themselves away from power outlets.

When it comes time to recharge, the Nokia G50 supports 18W fast charging. While not the fastest charging speed available in the market, it’s a welcome feature that can replenish the battery relatively quickly. It’s worth noting that the phone does not support wireless charging, which is a common omission in this price range.

Software and User Experience

The Nokia G50 runs on Android 11 out of the box, with Nokia’s commitment to providing a clean, near-stock Android experience. This approach results in a user-friendly interface free from bloatware and unnecessary customizations. Nokia has also promised two years of major Android OS updates and three years of monthly security patches, ensuring that the device remains secure and up-to-date for the foreseeable future.

The clean software experience, combined with the efficient hardware, contributes to smooth day-to-day performance. Users can expect responsive navigation, quick app launches, and seamless multitasking for most common tasks. The inclusion of features like NFC for contactless payments and a dedicated Google Assistant button adds to the overall convenience of the device.

Comparison with Other Nokia Models

When comparing the Nokia G50 to other models in Nokia’s lineup, it sits comfortably in the mid-range category.

The Nokia G22, released in 2023, offers a similar experience but lacks 5G connectivity. It features a smaller 6.5-inch display and a different processor, the Unisoc T606. The G22 is more focused on repairability, with easily replaceable parts, but sacrifices some performance compared to the G50.

The Nokia G42, also a 5G-capable device, was released after the G50 and offers some improvements. It features a more powerful Snapdragon 480+ processor and a higher refresh rate display at 90Hz. However, it has a smaller 6.56-inch screen compared to the G50’s 6.82-inch display.

The Nokia G20, an older model, is a 4G device with a MediaTek Helio G35 processor. While it shares some similarities with the G50, such as the large battery and triple camera setup, it lacks 5G capabilities and has lower overall specifications.

Comparison with Competitors

In the mid-range 5G smartphone market, the Nokia G50 faces competition from various brands. The Samsung Galaxy A33 5G offers a higher resolution AMOLED display and a more powerful processor but typically comes at a higher price point. The Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G provides a 108MP main camera and faster charging but may not match the clean software experience of the Nokia.

The Realme 8 5G is another competitor in a similar price range, offering a higher refresh rate display at 90Hz but with a smaller battery capacity. The Motorola Moto G 5G (2022) provides a comparable experience with a clean Android interface but may have limited availability in some regions.

Value Proposition and Target Audience

The Nokia G50 positions itself as an affordable entry point into the world of 5G smartphones. Its primary target audience includes budget-conscious consumers who want to experience 5G connectivity without spending a premium. The device is also well-suited for users who prioritize battery life and prefer a clean, bloatware-free Android experience.

Students, young professionals, and casual smartphone users will find the Nokia G50 to be a capable device for everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming. Its large display makes it suitable for media consumption, while the decent camera setup allows for capturing memories and engaging in video calls.

Connectivity and Additional Features

As a 5G-capable device, the Nokia G50 is well-equipped for the future of mobile connectivity. In addition to 5G, it supports all standard connectivity options, including Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC for contactless payments. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack is a welcome feature for those who prefer wired audio connections.

The device also comes with a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for quick and secure unlocking. This placement is ergonomic and allows for easy access when picking up the phone. Face unlock is also available as an alternative biometric authentication method.

Storage and Expandability

The Nokia G50 comes in two storage variants: 64GB and 128GB. While this may be sufficient for many users, those who require additional space will appreciate the inclusion of a microSD card slot. This allows for storage expansion of up to 512GB, providing ample room for apps, photos, videos, and other media.

Audio and Multimedia Experience

For multimedia enthusiasts, the Nokia G50 offers a decent audio experience. The single bottom-firing speaker provides clear sound, although it may lack the depth and volume of stereo setups found in more expensive devices. The inclusion of a 3.5mm headphone jack allows users to connect their favorite wired headphones or external speakers for improved audio quality.

The large 6.82-inch display, while not the highest resolution, provides an immersive viewing experience for watching videos, browsing photos, or playing games. The IPS LCD technology ensures good color reproduction and wide viewing angles, making it suitable for sharing content with friends or family.

Gaming Performance

While not marketed as a gaming phone, the Nokia G50 can handle casual games and even some more demanding titles with ease. The Snapdragon 480 5G processor, coupled with the Adreno 619 GPU, provides sufficient power for popular mobile games. However, users should expect to run more graphically intensive games at lower settings for the best performance.

The large display and substantial battery life make the Nokia G50 a good choice for extended gaming sessions. However, the 60Hz refresh rate may not provide as smooth an experience as some competitors offering 90Hz or 120Hz displays in a similar price range.

Camera Features and Modes

The Nokia G50’s camera system comes with a variety of features and modes to enhance the photography experience. The main 48MP camera uses pixel binning technology to produce 12MP images with improved light sensitivity and reduced noise. This results in better low-light performance and more detailed photos in various lighting conditions.

The camera app includes several modes such as Night mode for improved low-light photography, Portrait mode for bokeh effects, and Pro mode for manual control over camera settings. There’s also a dedicated macro mode that utilizes the ultra-wide camera for close-up shots of small subjects.

Video recording capabilities include 1080p at 30 frames per second for both the rear and front cameras. While not offering 4K recording, the video quality is generally good for social media sharing and casual use.

Software Updates and Long-term Support

One of the strengths of Nokia devices is their commitment to software updates and long-term support. The Nokia G50 launched with Android 11 and is guaranteed to receive two years of major Android OS updates, meaning it should be updated to Android 13 in the future. Additionally, Nokia promises three years of monthly security patches, ensuring the device remains secure and protected against the latest threats.

This commitment to updates adds value to the device over time, potentially extending its usable lifespan compared to some competitors that may receive fewer or less frequent updates.

Durability and Build Quality

While not ruggedized, the Nokia G50 is built to withstand daily use. The plastic back and frame may not feel as premium as glass or metal constructions, but they offer good durability and are less prone to shattering if dropped. The large display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, providing resistance against scratches and minor impacts.

The device does not have an official IP rating for water and dust resistance, so users should exercise caution around liquids and in dusty environments. However, the overall build quality is solid, reflecting Nokia’s reputation for durable devices.

Connectivity Options and Network Support

The Nokia G50’s 5G capabilities make it future-proof in terms of network connectivity. It supports a wide range of 5G bands, ensuring compatibility with most 5G networks worldwide. For areas where 5G is not yet available, the device falls back to 4G LTE networks seamlessly.

In addition to cellular connectivity, the Nokia G50 supports dual-band Wi-Fi, allowing it to connect to both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks for faster and more stable internet connections when in range of Wi-Fi. The inclusion of NFC enables contactless payments and quick pairing with compatible devices.

User Interface and Customization

The Nokia G50 runs on a near-stock version of Android, providing a clean and intuitive user interface. This approach not only contributes to smooth performance but also allows for easy customization. Users can personalize their home screens with widgets, change icon packs, and adjust system settings to their liking without navigating through layers of manufacturer-specific customizations.

The device also includes Google’s Digital Wellbeing features, helping users monitor and manage their screen time and app usage. This can be particularly useful for those looking to maintain a healthy balance between their digital and real-world activities.

Accessibility Features

Nokia has included a range of accessibility features in the G50 to make it usable for a wide variety of users. These include options for larger text, color inversion, magnification gestures, and TalkBack screen reader functionality. The clean Android interface also makes it easier for users with visual impairments to navigate the device.