Nokia XR21
128 GB, Black, 6.49", Dual SIM, 64 Mpx, 5G
The new Nokia XR21 is to be nothing other than the smartphone version of the Nokia 3310, which has become a robust icon.
One hour in 1.5 metres of water, a drop height of 1.8 metres, an 80-degree water jet at 100 bar and temperatures from -20 to 55 degrees Celsius: the newly launched Nokia XR21 can withstand more than other smartphones. The reward is IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certification, with which it adorns itself.
The inner housing of the Nokia XR21 is made of recycled aluminium and contributes its article to the stability of the smartphone. The outer casing is made of plastic, which provides cushioning. The 6.49-inch full HD+ display with a resolution of 2400 × 1080 pixels and a refresh rate of 120 hertz is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus. Its brightness is comparatively low at up to 550 nits in sunlight boost mode.
The touchscreen should be easy to operate with wet hands or gloves. And you are more likely to wear gloves than with other smartphones, which are generally only designed for use in ambient temperatures of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius. As a reminder: the XR21 is designed for -20 to 55 degrees. If that doesn't work, there are two programmable buttons. These give you quick access to apps or functions.
The Snapdragon 695 is a somewhat older mid-range processor. It is supported by 6 gigabytes of RAM. You cannot expand the 128 gigabyte memory.
Nokia is unfortunately still shipping the XR21 with Android 12 and not Android 13. However, the smartphone will receive three operating system updates - i.e. up to Android 15. The manufacturer promises monthly security updates for four years. That's okay, but not outstanding. Speaking of warranty: In the first year after the sales launch - not after purchase - Nokia offers a free replacement of a broken display. You'll have to read the small print yourself.
The 4800 mAh battery of the Nokia XR21 should last for two days. It is charged via a USB-C port with up to 33 watts. The 3.5 mm connection does not prevent the smartphone from being waterproof. For wireless connections, the device uses Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1.
The Nokia XR21 has two cameras on the back: a main camera with 64 megapixels and an ultra-wide-angle camera with eight megapixels. The front camera delivers selfies with 16 megapixels.
Cover photo: NokiaWhen I was but a young student, I'd sit in my friend's living room with all my classmates and play on his SuperNES. Since then I've had the opportunity to test out all the newest technology for you. I've done reviews at Curved, Computer Bild and Netzwelt, and have now arrived at Galaxus.de.