GADGET WATCH: Nokia Lumia 800

Nokia has been attempting to get back into the smartphone game for quite awhile now, making thousands of job cuts and restructuring the company to make it more competitive. And finally, the fruits of its partnership with Microsoft are now coming to light.

The Nokia Lumia 800 is one of the first phones the company will launch as part of the new partnership, powered by the Windows phone software. Some analysts think the duo will be able to take on Android and Apple within just a few years – but does the Lumia stand up to the competition?

While an international release is still quite a few months away, it’s good to take an early look at the device itself.

Hardware and features

The Lumia 800 is powered by the Windows Phone software, along with a 1.4Ghz Qualcomm chip. It features 512MB of RAM, with 16GB of internal memory, and a Li-on battery with up to eight hours of talk time and 535 hours of standby.

It uses a multi-touch screen, and features a digital compass, a three-axis accelerometer, and 3.7 inch screen with a 480 x 600 resolution. The gadget features a front camera, with eight megapixels.

Other connections include Bluetooth, WiFi, GPS, Micro-USB and the usual 3.5mm audio jack.

The device itself weighs only 142 grams.

What’s the consensus?

Early reviews suggest there’s a lot to like about the Lumia 800. TechRadar wrote that although the device is slightly chunky, a lot of care has been put into the design and it clearly shows.

“It’s a slightly odd system, and one that some will find a little bit difficult to get used to – but it does lend a certain sleekness to the design,” it said, although noted the back panel was prone to scratches.

Over at PC World, it praised the Gorilla glass screen, along with the sturdy design and emphasis on a touchscreen, but also noted the lack of a dual core processor.

“Any Windows Phone device is forced to meet strict hardware requirements by Microsoft, including a capacitive, multi-touch display with a minimum 800 x 480 resolution, a 1GHz or better processor, at least 256MB of RAM, a minimum of 8GB of internal storage, and a GPS receiver,” it said.

CNET particularly praised the camera, saying it was responsive and easy to use. “We tried snapping a few pictures, and there didn’t seem to be much shutter lag in between shots,” it said.

Engadget reported the ports for the USB charger and SIM slot are well hidden, and noted the distinct absence of program buttons. It also praised the front of the device – especially the touchscreen.

“The front is covered by that 3.7-inch 800 x 480 ClearBlack AMOLED display, which rests under ever so slightly curved glass, giving a raised effect. This is Gorilla Glass, so hopefully it being exposed in this way won’t danger its visual purity. Needless to say it looks as good as the display on the N9 – it’s quite simply gorgeous.”

Who’s it for?

The Lumia 800 hasn’t even been released yet, so it’s hard to see whether this is worth buying. But judging by the early reviews, if you’re after a Windows-powered smartphone and have been waiting for something a little more powerful, this is definitely worth checking out once it’s released.