It’s been a while since we posted about a smartphone below the Php 5,000 mark so here’s one from a very resilient brands that we grew up with — Nokia. Meet the Nokia C12 — a device that features a 6.3″ HD+ IPS LCD screen, 3000mAh detachable Li-Ion battery, Android 12 (Go version) operating system, and a performance optimizer that does a regular “Spring clean” for a smoother experience.

INSIDE THE BOX

Combining nostalgia and modern consumer needs when it comes to smartphones, the Nokia C12 comes with quite a handful of papers — 4 sets which contain information about the device, earphones, charging adapter, micro-USB cable, jelly case, SIM Ejector Tool, and the unit which comes with a screen protector.

The battery is also packed separately so you’ll have to put it in the smartphone yourself. The Nokia C12’s back cover is easy to remove if you’re used to the first generation of smartphones with removable batteries, but it can be a challenge to Gen Zs who have no idea that such batteries existed.

AT A GLANCE

The Nokia C12 takes pride in its additional virtual RAM of 2GB to give users more space for photos, files, and audio. Running on Android 12 (Go edition), Nokia also claims that the C12 is 30% faster than Android 11 devices. While I personally still find it a bit laggy, it does what it promises to do and at a very affordable price.

Despite having only one 8MP rear camera, the Nokia C12 is equipped with Night and Portrait modes. Photos, especially when taken via the front camera, tend to have a softer appearance as compared to budget smartphones that cost a few thousands more.

Though it’s not the best in class, the Nokia C12 can still play your favorite videos on its 6.3″ HD+ display. While the audio isn’t balanced since it only has a bottom-firing loudspeaker, it can easily be addressed by plugging in earphones in its 3.5mm audio jack. Plus, it can access the radio just like the first gen of smartphones!

Overall, it’s something worth considering if you need a device primarily used for calls, texts, and video viewing.

SPECIFICATIONS

Display	6.3” 720 x 1600px IPS LCD
Dimensions	160.6mm x 74.3mm x 8.8mm
Weight	177.4g
System	Unisoc SC9863A1 CPU IMG8322 GPI Android 12 OS
Storage	3GB RAM+ 2GB virtual RAM 64GB storage
Rear Camera	8MP
Front Camera	5MP
Audio	3.5mm Audio Jack, Bottom-firing Loudspeaker
Battery	Li-Ion 3000mAh removable battery
Connectivity	WiFi 802.11 b/g/n Bluetooth: 5.2 With FM radio microUSB 2.0
Colors	Charcoal, Dark Cyan, Light Mint

PRICE AND AVAILABILITY

The Nokia C12 costs Php 4,590 but it’s still on sale via the official Nokia stores on Shopee and Lazada for only Php 3,990. It’s also available for purchase in all Nokia mobile stores, Nokia authorized retail partners, and resellers nationwide.

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