Microsoft’s decision to discontinue Windows Phone in 2017, a choice later regretted by CEO Satya Nadella, marked the end of an era. While some enthusiasts continue to breathe life into their aging devices, Microsoft has officially closed the door on any consumer-friendly options for running a desktop-class Windows OS on smartphones. Enter Nex Computer, which is now taking pre-orders for the NexPhone, a device that aims to bring Android, Linux, and Windows 11 to the palm of your hand.
For those who have long dreamed of a smartphone that can deliver a full desktop experience, NexPhone presents an intriguing proposition. However, the reality of running Windows on a mobile device often leads to challenges such as tiny icons, awkward orientation, and diminished performance. Nex Computer has approached this challenge with a fresh perspective, crafting a custom Mobile UI that echoes the familiar aesthetics of Windows Phone. Emre Kosmaz, the company’s founding chief, emphasizes their commitment to creating a user-friendly interface designed specifically for touch interactions. The result is a layout that prioritizes ease of navigation, with a design reminiscent of the Windows Phone experience.
When connected to an external display, the NexPhone transforms, revealing the full capabilities of Windows 11. This duality allows users to enjoy a tailored mobile experience while also having access to a robust desktop environment when needed. Additionally, the device supports a Linux app that runs Debian, providing users with multiple operating systems, each equipped with its own desktop mode. However, potential buyers should be aware of significant limitations, particularly the absence of cellular connectivity when operating in Windows mode, which could deter some users.
The deeper picture
The positioning of the NexPhone is quite unique. The company clarifies that this device is not intended to replace your primary smartphone; rather, it serves as a backup or secondary option. Yet, its capabilities as a portable Windows-ready dock elevate it beyond traditional smartphones, offering a computing experience that fits in your pocket. That said, users should temper their expectations regarding performance, as the hardware does not match that of a high-end laptop.
Powered by Qualcomm’s DragonWing QCM6490 chip, the NexPhone’s performance benchmarks align more closely with mid-range devices, such as the Samsung Exynos 1380 found in the Galaxy A54 5G and the Google Pixel 7’s Tensor G2. Accompanied by 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage, the NexPhone is designed for light computing tasks. For those who rely on virtual Windows machines for unexpected work scenarios, this device offers a convenient offline solution without the latency and cost associated with cloud services.
It is essential to note that the NexPhone operates on Windows for Arm, differing from the x86 version typically found on Intel and AMD devices. While Microsoft has made strides in emulating x86 applications on Arm devices, users may still encounter compatibility issues.
A network hiccup
The allure of booting into Windows mode on a smartphone is undeniable, promising a level of productivity that surpasses Samsung’s mobile-first DeX system. However, this convenience comes at a cost: when the device is in Windows mode, cellular calling and SMS functions are unavailable. Users must revert to Android mode to access these features, which could be a significant inconvenience for some.
While in Windows mode, users can connect to Wi-Fi and utilize third-party applications like WhatsApp for voice and video calls. However, it’s important to remember that WhatsApp logs users out of connected devices after 14 days of inactivity, necessitating occasional returns to Android. The Linux functionality on the NexPhone also faces challenges, as demonstrated in a recent demo where the fastfetch utility crashed while attempting to display system information.
Despite these hurdles, the NexPhone boasts a rugged design, featuring an MIL-STD-810H military-grade build with IP68 and IP69K ratings for dust and water resistance. It offers a 120 Hz 6.58-inch display, a 64 MP main camera, and a 5,000 mAh battery, all priced at 9. Nex Computer does not market the NexPhone as a comprehensive replacement for everyday smartphones; instead, it presents a compact desktop solution that requires only a monitor, input devices, and a USB-C cable to transition from mobile to desktop computing. As the company has yet to provide a detailed demonstration of the performance of Linux and Windows 11 when connected to an external display, potential customers might consider waiting for further insights before placing their orders.
