Video: Nokia Lumia 920 was revolutionary

Lumia 920

Since we discussed the expected specs of the upcoming Nokia 9.3 last time, I wanted to take a look back at some of the most iconic flagships that were released from Nokia Mobile in the last decade, perhaps as a source of inspiration (hopeful I know) to the level of innovation required these days in order to stand out, build hype, and hopefully succeed. So today, let’s talk about the Lumia 920, what innovations it pack, what it got right, and what it didn’t. You can watch my thoughts in the video below:

In the video I talk about the biggest innovations that were first introduced on the Lumia 920. Namely optical image stabilization, which completely changed what smartphone camera’s could do in low light and in video. Then there is wireless charging (not the first, but the first mainstream phone to do so), which has become an essential feature in flagships in 2020, 8 years later.

There is also PureMotion HD+, which was Nokia’s marketing mumbo jumbo for a higher refresh rate display, capped at the time at 60Hz. Another great aspect was super sensitive touch, which enabled you to use a capacitive touchscreen for the first time while wearing gloves.

Finally, there is the focus on hardware design, quality and materials, and while the Lumia 920 wasn’t the first phone to make use of polycarbonate plastic painted all the way through, it perfected the formula and added zirconium metal pieces that were scratch resistant and looked very nice.

So what were the drawbacks? First of all, tech journalists complaine

d about the hefty 185 grams of weight causing wrist strains. Yes, this is as dumb as it sounds! The 2nd complaint is the most valid. Windows phone lacked the apps, and I understand even amongst the Nokia fan community there is a huge disparity in opinions on this topic. Having said that, people who used the phone knew how to work around that situation with many excellent alternative apps to the essentials, while people reviewing the phone weren’t comfortable enough to get out of their Android and iOS shells to give it a real chance. It also did not help that Microsoft didn’t have a very good reputation or image back then.

The final complaint was about the use of plastic, and big bezels on the front. Funny how 8 years later, we still complain about the 2nd point! As for the use of plastic, it was a part of the device’s charm and added much-needed durability. The 920 was one of the only flagships released at the time that could be enjoyed without a protective case on.

Anyways, these are my personal opinions on the Lumia 920. It was a very innovative smartphone that didn’t get as much recognition as it deserves.

What are your thoughts on the Lumia 920? Have you had the device, and if not, what kept you away? Let’s discuss in the comments!