Nokia 8 V 5G UW, a Verizon-exclusive variant of the Nokia 8.3 5G, marks HMD Global’s bold entry into the 5G smartphone arena. Announced on November 9, 2020, and released on November 12, 2020, this device combines robust hardware with the promise of ultra-fast connectivity, tailored specifically for Verizon’s Ultra Wideband (UW) 5G network. Targeting users who crave speed, a capable camera, and a large display, the Nokia 8 V 5G UW stands out in the mid-range segment. This article explores its specifications, pricing across key markets, and overall appeal, providing a detailed look at what it offers.
Announcement and Pricing Across Key Markets
The Nokia 8 V 5G UW was unveiled on November 9, 2020, with availability starting shortly after on November 12, 2020. Its pricing reflects its mid-range positioning with a premium touch due to 5G capabilities. In Pakistan, the expected price hovers around PKR 112,000, though official availability remains limited due to its carrier-specific design. In India, it is priced at approximately INR 49,999, appealing to tech-savvy consumers seeking 5G-ready devices. In the UK, the device retails for about £499, aligning with its feature set in a competitive market. In the USA, where it launched as a Verizon exclusive, it debuted at $699.99 (approximately £540 at the time), though discounts have since lowered its cost significantly post-contract expiration. These prices cater to the 4GB RAM and 64GB storage configuration, the only variant available.
Design and Display: Immersive Viewing Experience
The Nokia 8 V 5G UW boasts a 6.81-inch IPS LCD, delivering a Full HD+ resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. With a pixel density of 386 ppi and a 20:9 aspect ratio, the screen offers sharp visuals and an expansive view, ideal for streaming, gaming, and multitasking. Protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, the display ensures durability against scratches and minor drops. The punch-hole design houses the front camera, minimizing bezels for an 82.9% screen-to-body ratio. Measuring 171.9 x 78.6 x 9 mm and weighing 230 grams, its glass-back and plastic-frame construction exudes a premium feel, available in a sleek Meteor Gray finish. However, its size and weight may feel cumbersome for some users.
Camera System Versatile Photography with Zeiss Optics
Photography is a strong suit of the Nokia 8 V 5G UW, featuring a quad-camera setup enhanced by Zeiss optics. The 64MP primary sensor (f/1.89) captures detailed images with vibrant colors in daylight, supported by phase-detection autofocus for quick shots. A 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens (f/2.2) with a 120-degree field of view excels in landscapes and group photos, while dual 2MP sensors handle macro and depth duties, enabling close-ups and portrait effects with bokeh. Video recording reaches 4K at 30fps, bolstered by cinematic effects and OZO audio for immersive sound. The 24MP front camera delivers crisp selfies and supports 1080p video at 30fps, making it reliable for video calls and social media. Low-light performance, however, remains average, a common limitation in this price tier.
Performance and Processor Powering the 5G Experience
Driving the Nokia 8 V 5G UW is the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G, a 7nm octa-core processor with one Kryo 475 Prime core at 2.4 GHz, one Kryo 475 Gold core at 2.2 GHz, and six Kryo 475 Silver cores at 1.8 GHz. Paired with an Adreno 620 GPU and 6GB of LPDDR4x RAM, it handles everyday tasks—browsing, streaming, and casual gaming—like Asphalt 9 with ease. The Snapdragon 765G’s integrated 5G modem supports Verizon’s mmWave Ultra Wideband and sub-6GHz bands, ensuring fast connectivity where available. While not a flagship chipset, it offers a balanced mix of efficiency and performance, though heavy multitasking may reveal its mid-range roots.
Internal Storage Adequate with Expansion Options
The Nokia 8 V 5G UW comes with 64GB of internal storage, which may feel restrictive for multimedia enthusiasts given the high-resolution camera output. Fortunately, it includes a microSD slot supporting up to 1TB of additional storage, a practical feature for users needing extra space for apps, photos, and videos. This expandability sets it apart from many modern smartphones that omit dedicated card slots, though the base storage could have been higher to match its capabilities.
Android Version A Clean but Carrier-Locked Experience
Out of the box, the Nokia 8 V 5G UW runs Android 10, customized with Verizon’s firmware rather than the Android One program typical of other Nokia devices. This means it lacks the stock Android experience and rapid updates that Android One offers. HMD Global promised two years of OS upgrades and security patches, potentially bringing it to Android 12, though carrier delays have historically slowed updates for Verizon-locked devices. Pre-installed Verizon apps add some bloat, but the interface remains clean and functional for most users.
Battery Life Endurance for Daily Use
Equipped with a 4500 mAh non-removable Li-Polymer battery, the Nokia 8 V 5G UW promises solid endurance. Under typical use—browsing, calls, and light streaming—it can last a full day, with conservative use stretching to nearly 48 hours. It supports 18W fast charging, with a charger included, though a full charge takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Wireless charging is absent, a notable omission compared to competitors in its price range. The battery’s efficiency, paired with the power-saving Snapdragon 765G, ensures reliable performance for most users.
Connectivity and Additional Features
The Nokia 8 V 5G UW shines in connectivity, supporting 5G (mmWave and sub-6GHz), 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth 5.0, and NFC. It features a USB-C 2.0 port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor for secure unlocking. Sensors include an accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, while its IP52 rating offers splash resistance. The device’s Verizon exclusivity limits its appeal outside the USA, but its 5G prowess is a draw for compatible network users.
Conclusion: A Niche 5G Contender
The Nokia 8 V 5G UW delivers a compelling package for Verizon customers seeking 5G speeds, a large display, and a versatile camera system. Its mid-range specs, bolstered by a capable processor and expandable storage, make it a practical choice, though its carrier lock, modest base storage, and lack of wireless charging temper its appeal. Priced competitively in the USA and reasonably in other markets, it’s a solid option for those prioritizing connectivity and battery life over cutting-edge performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When was the Nokia 8 V 5G UW announced?
A: It was announced on November 9, 2020, and released on November 12, 2020.
Q: What is the price of the Nokia 8 V 5G UW in different countries?
A: It costs approximately PKR 112,000 in Pakistan, INR 49,999 in India, £499 in the UK, and $699.99 in the USA.
Q: What are the camera specifications of the Nokia 8 V 5G UW?
A: It features a 64MP main camera, 12MP ultra-wide, and dual 2MP macro and depth sensors, plus a 24MP front camera.
Q: What is the display size and resolution of the Nokia 8 V 5G UW?
A: It has a 6.81-inch IPS LCD with a 1080 x 2400 pixel resolution.
Q: How much internal storage does the Nokia 8 V 5G UW offer?
A: It provides 64GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB via microSD.
Q: Which Android version does the Nokia 8 V 5G UW run?
A: It launched with Android 10, with potential updates to Android 12.
Q: What is the battery capacity of the Nokia 8 V 5G UW?
A: It has a 4500 mAh non-removable Li-Polymer battery.
Q: What processor powers the Nokia 8 V 5G UW?
A: It uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G octa-core processor with an Adreno 620 GPU.