HMD Global’s most recent Android Go smartphones, the Nokia 1 Plus, is finally available in Kenya. This phone was launched at Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2019 a few weeks back and is finally available in Kenya for Ksh 9,300.
Even though HMD is yet to send out the press release confirming the availability of this phone, the company is running ads on social media informing potential buyers about its availability. We have known that this phone was coming to Kenya this month but were never sure about the exact date. Since HMD has not sent out the press release confirming the phone’s availability, my guess is you may not find it through many retail stores but try your luck and see if you can find it. The price may also change depending on where you get it but 9,300 is what we have so far.
The Nokia 1 Plus is an upgrade of the Nokia 1 from last year. It has a bigger screen and better build quality in my opinion. Even though the Nokia 1 was and still is a good entry level device, I felt that the size was a bit too small in a world dominated with smartphones with 6-inch displays and bigger.
The Nokia 1 Plus comes with Android Pie out of the box and is an Android Go smartphone. The phone is scheduled to get Android Q and R when they are available and should get monthly security updates for the next couple of years.
The Nokia 1 Plus will be competing with devices such as the Xiaomi Redmi Go which is a way cheaper Android Go smartphone that I am currently reviewing. These are devices targeting those who want good and reliable entry level smartphones without breaking the bank.
Below are some of the key specifications of the Nokia 1 Plus.
Display Size: 5.45 inches with a resolution of 960 X 480 Pixels
Processor: 1.5GHz Quad-core Mediatek MT6739
RAM: 1GB
Storage Space: 8 GB, can be expanded to 128GB using a microSD card
GPU: PowerVR GE8100
Android Version: Android 9.0 Pie
Main Camera: 8 MP
Selfie Camera: 5 MP
Battery: 2500 mAh battery
Besides the Nokia 1 Plus, the other Nokia smartphones announced at MWC 2019 will also be unveiled in the country in the coming weeks. I am particularly excited to see the Nokia 9 PureView and how the company positions it against competitors.