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Nokia 8

The Nokia 8 is a manufactured by and marketed under the brand, announced on August 16, 2017, and released globally on September 7, 2017. It features a 5.3-inch LCD display with a 2560 x 1440 resolution and protection, powered by the octa-core processor (10 nm) with Adreno 540 GPU. The device offers 4 GB or 6 GB of RAM paired with 64 GB or 128 GB of internal storage, expandable via microSDXC up to 256 GB, and includes IP54 splash resistance and a fingerprint sensor. Its camera system highlights a dual 13 MP rear setup with (), phase detection autofocus (PDAF), and , alongside a 13 MP front camera, enabling unique "bothie" functionality for simultaneous front-and-rear video recording in 4K UHD. The Nokia 8 launched with and received updates up to , supported by a 3090 mAh Li-Ion battery with . Measuring 151.5 x 73.7 x 7.9 mm and weighing 160 grams, it was positioned as 's first premium -branded device, emphasizing aluminum unibody construction and dual-SIM support.

Development and release

Announcement

HMD Global unveiled the Nokia 8 on 16 August 2017 during an event in London, England. This launch represented 's inaugural flagship Nokia-branded smartphone, succeeding the 2014 Nokia Lumia 930 as the brand's high-end offering following the transition from to under HMD's licensing. The announcement event featured live demonstrations of standout capabilities, including the Dual-Sight mode—branded as "Bothie"—which enables simultaneous capture using both the front and rear cameras for split-screen photos and videos. also emphasized the exclusive partnership with , integrating certified optics into the device's dual 13-megapixel rear camera setup for enhanced imaging performance. The Nokia 8 was priced at €599 for its European debut, positioning it as a premium competitor in the Android flagship market.

Market launch

The Nokia 8 became available for purchase in Europe starting in early September 2017, marking the commercial debut of HMD Global's first flagship smartphone under the Nokia brand. Sales commenced on September 6 in select European markets, with wider availability rolling out across the region throughout the month at a recommended retail price of approximately €599. This launch followed the device's announcement in London on August 16, 2017, and emphasized timely access for consumers seeking a high-end Android option. The rollout extended globally shortly thereafter, including key Asian markets such as , where it launched on September 11 at around $545, and in October at S$769. Availability in was more restricted, with no official carrier partnerships in the United States, though the device could be obtained via retailers and unlocked channels. facilitated distribution through major carriers like in regions including and parts of , as well as online platforms such as and high-street stores like and . Marketed as a premium flagship, the Nokia 8 was positioned to leverage Nokia's legacy of durable, innovative design while delivering a stock Android experience free from bloatware, powered by the Snapdragon 835 processor. highlighted features like dual optics and spatial audio to appeal to enthusiasts and audiophiles, aiming to revive the brand's reputation in the competitive high-end segment against rivals like and Apple. Security support for the device continued with quarterly patches until October 2020, after which it was officially discontinued.

Design

Build and dimensions

The Nokia 8 features a precision-milled unibody constructed from a single block of 6000-series aluminum, undergoing a 40-stage process that includes , , and to achieve a seamless and durable frame. This aluminum construction contributes to the device's overall robustness while maintaining a premium feel. The front is protected by Corning 5, providing enhanced scratch and drop resistance compared to previous generations. Measuring 151.5 in height, 73.7 in width, and 7.9 in thickness at its widest point (with a 0.4 camera bump), the Nokia 8 tapers to 4.6 at the edges and averages 7.3 in slimness, resulting in a weight of 160 grams. These dimensions offer a compact yet substantial suitable for one-handed use. The device also holds an IP54 rating for and resistance, allowing it to withstand light environmental exposure without compromising internal components. For thermal management, the Nokia 8 incorporates a full-length cooling pipe shielded by , which efficiently dissipates heat generated during intensive tasks across the device's body. This solution helps maintain performance stability without relying on active fans. Ergonomically, the Nokia 8's curved edges enhance grip and comfort, echoing designs in contemporary flagships for reduced slippage during prolonged handling. Ports are strategically placed for accessibility: a USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 1 port at the bottom supports fast charging and data transfer up to 5 Gbps, while a 3.5 mm headphone jack is positioned at the top to minimize cable interference during use.

Color options and variants

The Nokia 8 was offered in four distinct color finishes, providing a premium aluminum unibody aesthetic: Polished Blue, Polished Copper, Tempered Blue, and Steel. These options were designed to appeal to varied tastes while maintaining a consistent high-end look across the lineup. The smartphone launched with two primary hardware configurations. The standard variant featured 4 GB of LPDDR4X RAM paired with 64 GB of UFS 2.1 internal storage, which was widely available in most global markets. A higher-specification model with 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage was introduced later in select regions, including Finland and the United States, and was particularly offered in the Polished Blue colorway. Storage expandability was uniform across all variants, with support for a microSDXC card up to 256 ; however, this slot was shared with the second in dual-SIM configurations. Regional variations were reflected in specific model numbers: TA-1004 for global dual-SIM markets, TA-1012 for the single-SIM version, and TA-1052 for regions including and parts of the with dual-SIM support. These designations ensured with local bands and regulatory requirements without altering core hardware features.

Hardware

Processor and performance

The Nokia 8 features the 835 system-on-chip (), a 10 nm octa-core with four cores clocked at 2.45 GHz for high-performance tasks and four additional cores at 1.9 GHz for efficiency. This chipset, introduced in early 2017, delivers flagship-level computing capabilities suitable for multitasking and demanding applications at the time of the device's launch. The integrated Adreno 540 graphics processing unit (GPU) handles graphics-intensive operations, supporting smooth rendering in games and video playback up to . Memory configurations include 4 of LPDDR4X in the base model and 6 in the higher variant, enabling efficient handling of multiple apps and background processes without significant . Internal storage options consist of 64 or 128 using UFS 2.1 , which provides faster read/write speeds compared to eMMC alternatives, enhancing overall system responsiveness. In benchmark tests, the Nokia 8 achieved an v7 score of approximately 210,000 points, reflecting strong multi-core performance and GPU capabilities that positioned it competitively against contemporaries like the Samsung Galaxy S8. Connectivity is bolstered by support for LTE Cat. 9/10 with download speeds up to 450 Mbps, NFC for contactless payments and data transfer, 5.0 for improved range and speed in wireless accessories, and dual-band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac with MIMO technology for reliable high-speed . To sustain peak performance during prolonged use, the device incorporates a heat dissipation system that mitigates thermal throttling from the Snapdragon 835.

Display

The Nokia 8 features a 5.3-inch LCD display with a QHD of × 2560 pixels, delivering a pixel density of approximately 554 for sharp and detailed visuals. This configuration maintains a traditional :9 , providing compatibility with a wide range of media content optimized for that format. The screen is protected by Corning 5, which offers enhanced resistance to scratches and minor drops compared to previous generations. For usability in varied lighting conditions, it supports a peak brightness of 700 nits, improving readability under direct . Additionally, the display includes an feature, which activates briefly upon detecting device movement to show notifications and key information without fully waking the screen, helping to conserve battery while keeping users informed.

Cameras

The Nokia 8 is equipped with a dual rear camera setup featuring two 13 MP : a color with phase detection autofocus (PDAF), optical image stabilization (), 1/3.1" size, 1.12 µm size, and f/2.0 , alongside a monochrome with PDAF, f/2.0 , and 1.12 µm , both utilizing optics for enhanced clarity and low-light performance. The system includes laser autofocus, a dual-LED dual-tone flash, and capabilities to improve in images. The front-facing camera is a 13 MP sensor with an f/2.0 aperture, enabling high-resolution selfies and video calls with comparable quality to the rear setup. Key features include the proprietary Dual-Sight mode, branded as "Bothie," which captures split-screen photos and videos simultaneously from both front and rear cameras, supporting real-time live streaming to platforms like Facebook and YouTube. Video recording reaches 4K resolution at 30 fps across both cameras, enhanced by Nokia OZO spatial 360° audio technology for immersive sound capture. Software enhancements, developed in collaboration with , include tuned optics for natural color reproduction and depth effects, alongside a manual mode offering controls for ISO, white balance, focus, and to allow advanced user adjustments. A subsequent update introduced Pro Camera mode, expanding manual options to include for greater creative flexibility in stills and video.

Battery

The Nokia 8 features a non-removable 3090 mAh Li-Ion battery, providing the primary power source for its operations. Charging is supported via USB Type-C with , enabling up to 18W wired charging speeds through compatible adapters (5V/2.5A, 9V/2A, or 12V/1.5A). However, the device does not support wireless charging. In terms of endurance, the delivers up to 23.5 hours of talk time and approximately 208 hours (8.7 days) of standby time, according to manufacturer specifications. Video playback performance reaches over 11 hours for content. Independent tests confirm solid overall life, with around 17 hours in continuous video playback loops and an rating of 78 hours across mixed usage scenarios including calls, browsing, and media. Battery optimization benefits from Android's built-in features, such as Doze mode for improved standby efficiency and, following updates to , adaptive battery management that learns user patterns to prioritize power allocation.

Software

Initial version

The Nokia 8 shipped with , delivering a near-stock implementation of the operating system free from bloatware or heavy manufacturer customizations. This setup provided users with a clean, responsive based on pure , supplemented by a few Nokia-specific applications such as the dedicated Camera app, which integrated with the device's optics for enhanced photography controls, and the Switch tool for seamless data transfer during initial setup. Security features at launch included Protect for real-time malware detection and scanning of sideloaded apps, alongside HMD Global's commitment to delivering monthly security patches on the same day as Google's releases to maintain device protection. The initial software also supported advanced audio enhancements through , enabling spatial 360-degree sound capture and playback for media content.

Updates and support

The Nokia 8 launched in August 2017 with , under HMD Global's policy of providing two major operating system updates and three years of security patches for the device. It received its first major update to Android 8.1 Oreo in February 2018, followed by Android 9.0 in February 2019. extended security patch support with quarterly updates through October 2020, after which official maintenance ended with no further major OS upgrades beyond . The device's bootloader was officially unlockable during its active support period, enabling users to install custom recoveries and firmware for extended functionality post-official support, though official methods are no longer available as of 2025, with unofficial methods required. Popular aftermarket options include , which provides ongoing support up to version 23.0 based on 16 as of November 2025, allowing owners to access newer features and security enhancements.

Reception

Reviews

The Nokia 8 received generally positive reviews from tech publications for its premium construction and core performance, positioning it as a solid entry in the mid-premium smartphone segment. Critics praised the device's aluminum unibody build, which featured a polished finish available in colors like and copper, providing a high-end feel at 160 grams and 7.9mm thick. The 5.3-inch QHD LCD display was highlighted for its vibrant colors, sharp 554 PPI resolution, and 700 nits brightness, making it suitable for outdoor viewing and . Performance powered by the and 4GB was described as smooth for multitasking and , comparable to contemporaries like the Galaxy S8. The dual 13MP rear cameras, developed in partnership with , were commended for innovative features like Bothie mode, which allows simultaneous front and rear recording for , along with effects and OZO 3D audio capture. However, reviewers noted shortcomings in camera performance, particularly average low-light capabilities where images suffered from noise and exposure issues. The absence of IP68 —limited to IP54 —and lack of charging were frequent criticisms, placing it behind flagships like the iPhone 7 or Galaxy S8 in durability and convenience. Overall scores averaged around 4 out of 5 stars, with awarding 4/5 for its reliable hardware despite a high price and giving 7.6/10 for its power and screen but noting it as unremarkable. The phone was seen as a successful revival of the brand under , emphasizing a clean, bloatware-free interface akin to principles, marking the company's first Android flagship since 2014.

Commercial performance

The Nokia 8 achieved moderate commercial success following its 2017 launch, contributing to HMD Global's overall shipments of 8.45 million units for the full year of 2017, though specific sales figures for the model itself were not publicly disclosed by the company. Official totals remain unavailable due to limited model-specific data. Limited public sales figures for the Nokia 8 highlight the need for greater transparency in HMD's financial disclosures. As of 2025, HMD has discontinued the smartphone brand entirely. Positioned as a device, the Nokia 8 competed directly with contemporaries like the and in the premium segment. Its release helped elevate HMD Global's global to 1 percent by the end of , up from 0.4 percent earlier in the year, according to analyst reports. The Nokia 8 laid the groundwork for subsequent high-end models, such as the announced in 2018 as its direct successor in HMD's lineup. The device was discontinued from sales in the late 2010s as HMD shifted focus to newer generations of smartphones.

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