HMD Global kicked off 2023 with a low-cost Android 12 Go Edition phone called Nokia C12 – the version that will succeed the Nokia C10 launched in early 2021.
According to GSMArena, instead of having a 6.52-inch LCD screen, measuring 169.9 x 77.9 x 8.8 mm and weighing 191 grams like the Nokia C10, the new Nokia C12 model only has a 6.3-inch LCD screen. HD + resolution, dimensions 160.6 x 74.3 x 8.75 mm and weighs 177.4 grams.
Inside, Nokia C12 is equipped with a Unisoc SC9863A1 chip manufactured on the old 28nm process. This chip comes with 8 Cortex-A55 cores (4 cores 1.6 GHz combined with 4 cores 1.2 GHz) and a PowerVR IMG 8322 GPU. The phone comes with 2 GB RAM but has an additional 2 GB activation option. virtual RAM memory, combined with 64 GB of internal memory in eMMC 5.1 formats, but not expandable via microSD card slot.
Nokia C12 comes with dual cameras, including an 8 MP module on the back (with autofocus and LED flash) and a 5 MP selfie camera on the front placed in the notch. It supports night and portrait modes.
The Nokia C12 is a 4G phone that supports other wireless connectivity options including Wi-Fi b/g/n and Bluetooth 5.2. It also comes with a 3.5mm audio jack, but only uses the microUSB port for data transfer and battery charging. The battery of the phone has a capacity of 3,000 mAh and charges at 5W.
Despite its low price, the Nokia C12 impresses with its sturdy, textured polycarbonate body with drop protection and tempered glass on the front. The phone has an IP52 rating (protection from dust and splashes). HMD Global has committed to quarterly security updates for 2 years, but it is not clear how long it plans to support OS updates.
Nokia C12 costs 130 USD for 2/64 GB only configuration. The product will be available in Germany and Austria before expanding to other markets shortly thereafter.