Nokia G42 represents HMD Global’s commitment to delivering accessible technology without sacrificing essential features. As a budget-friendly 5G smartphone, it combines modern connectivity with practical specifications, appealing to users who seek value and reliability. Announced in mid-2023, the Nokia G42 brings a blend of durability, performance, and user-centric design to the table.
This article provides an in-depth look at the Nokia G42, covering its announcement date, camera system, display size and resolution, internal storage options, Android version, battery capacity, and processor, while offering insights into its place in the competitive smartphone market.
Announcement Date
The Nokia G42 was officially unveiled on June 28, 2023, marking HMD Global’s latest entry into the affordable 5G segment. This announcement underscored Nokia’s strategy to cater to cost-conscious consumers while embracing next-generation network capabilities. Launched globally and later introduced in markets like India on September 11, 2023, the Nokia G42 quickly gained attention for its repairable design and competitive pricing, starting at approximately £179 in the UK and ₹12,599 in India.
Camera Capabilities
The Nokia G42 features a versatile triple-camera setup on the rear, designed to meet the needs of casual photographers. The primary sensor is a 50-megapixel camera with an f/1.8 aperture, enhanced by phase-detection autofocus and an LED flash. This main camera excels in well-lit conditions, producing detailed and vibrant images, and includes features like Night Mode and HDR for improved low-light performance.
Accompanying it are two 2-megapixel sensors—one for macro photography and another for depth sensing—enabling close-up shots and portrait effects with a bokeh background. On the front, an 8-megapixel selfie camera with an f/2.0 aperture handles video calls and self-portraits with satisfactory clarity. While not a flagship contender, the Nokia G42’s camera system offers solid performance for its price range.
Display Size and Resolution
Equipped with a 6.56-inch IPS LCD, the Nokia G42 provides a spacious screen ideal for media consumption and everyday tasks. The display supports a resolution of 720 x 1612 pixels, resulting in a pixel density of approximately 269 pixels per inch (PPI). While this HD+ resolution may not rival Full HD panels, it delivers adequate sharpness and color accuracy for its target audience.
The screen also features a 90Hz refresh rate, offering smoother scrolling and animations compared to standard 60Hz displays. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, the Nokia G42’s display balances durability and functionality, with a peak brightness of 560 nits ensuring decent visibility in bright environments.
Internal Storage Options
The Nokia G42 is available in multiple storage and RAM configurations to suit varying user needs. It comes in three variants: 4 GB RAM with 128 GB storage, 6 GB RAM with 128 GB storage, and 8 GB RAM with 256 GB storage. These options provide flexibility for users, from those requiring basic app storage to those needing more capacity for media and multitasking.
Additionally, the device includes a microSDXC slot supporting up to 1 TB of expandable storage, a rare and welcome feature in modern smartphones. This expandability ensures the Nokia G42 remains practical for users with growing storage demands.
Android Version
Running on Android 13 out of the box, the Nokia G42 benefits from a clean, near-stock Android experience optimized for efficiency. HMD Global has promised two major OS upgrades—up to Android 15—and three years of monthly security updates, ensuring long-term software support. This commitment to updates enhances the device’s longevity, a key selling point for budget buyers.
Android 13 brings features like improved privacy controls, customizable themes, and seamless app switching, all tailored to run smoothly on the Nokia G42’s modest hardware.
Battery Type and Capacity
The Nokia G42 is powered by a robust 5000 mAh non-removable lithium-polymer battery, designed to deliver exceptional endurance. HMD Global claims up to three days of battery life under typical usage conditions, a result validated by real-world tests involving five hours of daily activity like streaming, browsing, and calling.
The device supports 20W fast charging via a USB Type-C 2.0 port, with compatibility for Power Delivery 3.0 and Quick Charge 3 standards, allowing a full charge in just over an hour. While the battery isn’t removable—a departure from some earlier Nokia models—its capacity and charging capabilities make it a reliable companion for extended use.
Processor Performance
At the core of the Nokia G42 is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G chipset, an octa-core processor built on an 8nm process. Featuring two Kryo 460 cores clocked at 2.2 GHz for performance and six Kryo 460 cores at 1.8 GHz for efficiency, this SoC is paired with an Adreno 619 GPU.
The Snapdragon 480+ delivers competent performance for daily tasks such as web browsing, social media, and light gaming, while its integrated 5G modem ensures future-proof connectivity. Though not a powerhouse for intensive multitasking or high-end gaming, the processor strikes a balance between efficiency and capability, making the Nokia G42 a practical choice for its segment.
Design and Build Quality
The Nokia G42 sports a sleek, modern design with dimensions of 165 x 75.8 x 8.6 mm and a weight of 193.8 grams. Its plastic back, available in So Grey, So Purple, and So Pink, incorporates recycled materials, reflecting HMD Global’s sustainability efforts. The device’s IP52 rating offers dust and splash resistance, adding durability for everyday use.
A side-mounted fingerprint sensor, 3.5mm headphone jack, and FM radio further enhance its practicality, while the QuickFix design—developed with iFixit—allows users to replace components like the battery or display, a standout feature in its class.
Market Position and Value Proposition
Priced competitively, the Nokia G42 targets budget-conscious consumers, first-time 5G adopters, and those valuing repairability and software updates. It competes with devices like the Motorola Moto G53 5G and Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 5G, offering a unique blend of 5G connectivity, long battery life, and a sustainable design. While its HD+ display and mid-tier processor may not appeal to power users, its affordability and reliability make it a strong contender in the entry-level 5G market.
Conclusion
The Nokia G42, announced on June 28, 2023, is a well-rounded smartphone that prioritizes accessibility and practicality. With a 50-megapixel triple-camera system, a 6.56-inch 720 x 1612 display, up to 256 GB of internal storage, Android 13, a 5000 mAh battery, and the Snapdragon 480+ processor, it delivers a compelling package for its price. Whether for basic communication, media consumption, or reliable 5G connectivity, the Nokia G42 stands out as a dependable option backed by Nokia’s trusted brand heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When was the Nokia G42 announced?
A: The Nokia G42 was announced on June 28, 2023.
Q: What cameras does the Nokia G42 have?
A: It features a 50 MP main rear camera, a 2 MP macro, a 2 MP depth sensor, and an 8 MP front camera.
Q: What is the display size and resolution of the Nokia G42?
A: It has a 6.56-inch IPS LCD with a 720 x 1612 pixel resolution.
Q: What are the internal storage options for the Nokia G42?
A: It offers 128 GB with 4 GB or 6 GB RAM, and 256 GB with 8 GB RAM, expandable up to 1 TB via microSDXC.
Q: Which Android version does the Nokia G42 run?
A: It runs Android 13, with promised upgrades to Android 15.
Q: What is the battery capacity of the Nokia G42?
A: It has a 5000 mAh non-removable lithium-polymer battery.
Q: What processor powers the Nokia G42?
A: It uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480+ 5G octa-core processor.
Q: Does the Nokia G42 support 5G?
A: Yes, it supports 5G connectivity through its Snapdragon 480+ chipset.
Q: Is the Nokia G42 repairable?
A: Yes, its QuickFix design allows users to replace parts like the battery or screen with iFixit kits.