Tag: Launched 2024

  • Nothing Phone (2a) Plus

    Nothing launched the Phone (2a) Plus in India in July 2024 at Rs 27,999 for 8 GB plus 256 GB, just four months after the Phone (2a). Rather than a new design, it was a mid-cycle upgrade with a metallic finish in Grey or Black, a faster chip, more storage and better selfie hardware, aimed at buyers who found the (2a) slightly short on performance.

    The Dimensity 7350 Pro is a modest step up from the 7200 Pro, about ten percent quicker in practice, with the same 6.7-inch 120Hz AMOLED display. Nothing OS 2.6 on Android 14 is unchanged in its clean, minimal approach. The Glyph lights now support more custom ringtones and notification patterns.

    The rear pairing of a 50 MP main and 50 MP ultrawide carries over, but the front camera moves from 32 MP to 50 MP and records 4K video. The 5000 mAh battery gains 50W charging, slightly faster than before. Against the OnePlus Nord CE4 and Realme 13 Pro, it is a sensible choice for buyers who want the (2a) experience with more headroom.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 27,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Flexible AMOLED, 120Hz, 1084 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 50 MP ultrawide
    Front camera50 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging50W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Nothing OS 2.6
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight190 g
    ColoursBlack, Grey

    What we like

    • 256 GB base storage
    • 50 MP selfie camera with 4K video
    • Slightly faster chipset
    • Metallic finish looks premium

    What could be better

    • Small upgrade over the Phone (2a)
    • No wireless charging
    • Only IP54

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who like the Phone (2a) but want more storage, a better selfie camera and a little extra speed.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Nothing Phone (2a)

    The Phone (2a) launched in India in March 2024 at Rs 23,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB, making Nothing's design accessible to a much larger audience. It was also partly designed with Indian buyers in mind, and its horizontal camera layout, framed by three Glyph light strips, gave it a friendly, slightly retro look distinct from its pricier siblings.

    The 6.7-inch flexible AMOLED runs at 120Hz with thin, even bezels. The custom MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro is efficient and fast enough for everyday use and moderate gaming, broadly matching the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 in the Redmi Note 13 Pro. Nothing OS 2.5 over Android 14 stays clean, with no bloatware and three years of OS updates promised.

    The two 50 MP cameras, a main with OIS and an ultrawide, produce good daylight photos with natural tones. Battery life is a strength, with the 5000 mAh cell easily reaching a day and a half, and 45W charging. It lacks wireless charging and has only IP54, but against the Redmi Note 13 Pro and Realme 12 Pro it offers cleaner software and a more memorable design.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 23,999 (base variant)
    India launchMarch 2024
    SegmentMid-range
    Display6.7-inch, Flexible AMOLED, 120Hz, 1084 x 2412
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 50 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging45W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Nothing OS 2.5
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP54
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight190 g
    ColoursBlack, White

    What we like

    • Distinctive design at a mid-range price
    • Excellent battery life
    • Clean software with no bloat
    • Uniform-bezel AMOLED

    What could be better

    • No wireless charging
    • Only IP54
    • Fewer Glyph features than the Phone (2)

    Who should buy it

    Mid-range buyers who want clean software, strong battery life and a phone that looks different from everything else.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (March 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold

    Google brought the Pixel 9 Pro Fold to India in August 2024 at Rs 1,72,999 for 16 GB plus 256 GB, the first Pixel foldable sold in the country. It abandoned the short, wide shape of the original Pixel Fold for a taller design whose 6.3-inch cover screen feels like a normal phone, and an 8-inch inner display that is the largest on any foldable of its year.

    The inner LTPO OLED and the cover screen both run at up to 120Hz with high brightness. The phone is thin when open and uses Tensor G4 with 16 GB of RAM, enough for multitasking and Gemini features. Software support for split screen and the taskbar is good, though the Galaxy Z Fold 6 offers more refined multitasking tools and Snapdragon performance.

    Cameras are a step below the slab Pixel 9 Pro: a 48 MP main, a 10.5 MP ultrawide and a 10.8 MP 5x telephoto, still producing reliable Pixel results. The 4650 mAh battery lasts a day, though charging is slow at 21W. Against the Z Fold 6 it offers a more usable cover screen and better camera processing, but loses on performance and the IP rating, which is only IPX8.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 172,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFoldable
    Display8-inch, Foldable LTPO OLED, 6.3-inch OLED cover display, 120Hz, 2076 x 2152
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM16 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras48 MP main + 10.5 MP ultrawide + 10.8 MP 5x telephoto
    Front camera10 MP
    Battery4650 mAh
    Charging21W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIPX8
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight257 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain

    What we like

    • Large 8-inch inner display
    • Normal-width cover screen
    • Thin and well-built
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Extremely expensive
    • Weaker cameras than the Pixel 9 Pro
    • Slow charging and only IPX8

    Who should buy it

    Productivity-focused buyers who want a large-screen foldable with Google software and a phone-like cover display.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro XL

    The Pixel 9 Pro XL launched in India in August 2024 at Rs 1,24,999 for 16 GB plus 256 GB. It is the large-screen version of the Pixel 9 Pro and the successor to the Pixel 8 Pro, positioned against the Galaxy S24 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max. The flat aluminium sides and rounded corners make it more comfortable than its size suggests.

    Its 6.8-inch LTPO OLED runs at 1344 x 2992 and up to 120Hz, with excellent brightness and colour accuracy. Tensor G4 and 16 GB of RAM drive Gemini Live, Pixel Screenshots, Add Me and Magic Editor. As with earlier Tensor phones, sustained gaming performance and heat management are behind Qualcomm's best, but the phone feels quick in daily use.

    Cameras are identical to the smaller Pro: a 50 MP main, 48 MP ultrawide, 48 MP 5x telephoto and a 42 MP selfie camera, all capable of excellent results, with Video Boost for cloud-processed footage. The 5060 mAh battery is the largest in the 2024 Pixel line, charging at up to 37W with a compatible adapter. The S24 Ultra counters with the S Pen and 10x zoom.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 124,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.8-inch, LTPO OLED (Super Actua), 120Hz, 1344 x 2992
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM16 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 48 MP 5x telephoto
    Front camera42 MP
    Battery5060 mAh
    Charging37W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight221 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz

    What we like

    • Large, bright LTPO display
    • Excellent triple camera
    • Largest battery in the Pixel 9 line
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Very high price
    • Heavy at around 221 g
    • Tensor G4 lags in gaming

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a big-screen Android flagship with top cameras and long support, and do not need an S Pen.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 9 Pro

    For the first time Google offered its Pro-tier Pixel in a compact size. The Pixel 9 Pro was announced for India in August 2024 at Rs 1,09,999 for 16 GB plus 256 GB, sharing the 6.3-inch footprint of the regular Pixel 9 while adding the telephoto camera, a sharper LTPO screen and more memory. It competed directly with the iPhone 16 Pro.

    The Super Actua LTPO display runs at 1280 x 2856 and up to 120Hz, with very high peak brightness. Tensor G4 with 16 GB of RAM handles Gemini Nano and Google's AI suite smoothly, though gaming performance and efficiency still trail Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 and Apple's A18 Pro. The polished frame and matte glass back give it a premium feel.

    Its triple camera, with a 50 MP main, 48 MP ultrawide and 48 MP 5x telephoto, is among the most consistent of its year, and the 42 MP selfie camera with autofocus is a big step up for video calls and group shots. The 4700 mAh battery lasts a day with 27W charging. For buyers wanting a small phone with a top-tier zoom camera, few alternatives existed on Android.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 109,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.3-inch, LTPO OLED (Super Actua), 120Hz, 1280 x 2856
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM16 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide + 48 MP 5x telephoto
    Front camera42 MP
    Battery4700 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight199 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Hazel, Rose Quartz

    What we like

    • Full Pro camera system in a compact size
    • 42 MP autofocus selfie camera
    • 16 GB RAM for on-device AI
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Very expensive
    • Tensor G4 trails rivals in gaming
    • 27W charging is slow

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a compact Android flagship with a 5x zoom camera and Google's AI features.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 9

    Google launched the Pixel 9 in India in August 2024 at Rs 79,999 for 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. It introduced a new design with flat aluminium sides and a floating, pill-shaped camera island, and was among the first phones built around Gemini, with features like Gemini Live, Pixel Screenshots and Add Me.

    The 6.3-inch Actua OLED is larger than the Pixel 8's and brighter still, while the extra RAM supports on-device Gemini Nano models. Tensor G4 is a modest step over G3, so performance remains behind the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 in the Galaxy S24 and the A18 in the iPhone 16, but daily use is smooth and thermals improved.

    The camera system pairs a 50 MP main sensor with a new 48 MP ultrawide that captures better detail and macro shots. The 4700 mAh battery and 27W charging deliver a full day comfortably. Against the Galaxy S24 and iPhone 16, the Pixel 9 offers the strongest AI feature set and seven years of updates, though it costs more than discounted rivals.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 79,999 (base variant)
    India launchAugust 2024
    SegmentFlagship
    Display6.3-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2424
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G4
    RAM12 GB
    Storage256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 48 MP ultrawide
    Front camera10.5 MP
    Battery4700 mAh
    Charging27W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP68
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight198 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Wintergreen, Peony

    What we like

    • Gemini AI features built in
    • Improved 48 MP ultrawide
    • Bright 6.3-inch Actua display
    • Seven years of updates

    What could be better

    • Tensor G4 is only a small upgrade
    • No telephoto lens
    • Charging speeds still modest

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want Google's AI features and reliable cameras in a mid-sized flagship with long software support.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (August 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Google Pixel 8a

    The Pixel 8a launched in India in May 2024 at Rs 52,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB. It brought the flagship Tensor G3 and the seven-year update promise down to the A series, along with a 120Hz screen at last. The price, however, was significantly higher than earlier A-series Pixels, placing it against the OnePlus 12R and Galaxy S23 FE.

    Its 6.1-inch Actua OLED is bright and smooth, and the compact body with rounded edges is easy to use one-handed. Tensor G3 handles everyday tasks and Google's AI features, including Circle to Search, Best Take and Audio Magic Eraser. The thick bezels and plastic back remind you it is a cheaper Pixel, though IP67 rating is retained.

    The 64 MP main and 13 MP ultrawide cameras produce Pixel-quality images that outclass most phones at this price, particularly in tricky lighting. Battery capacity is 4492 mAh with slow 18W wired and 7.5W wireless charging. The OnePlus 12R offers far faster charging and performance for similar money, so the 8a mainly suits buyers who prioritise camera and update longevity.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 52,999 (base variant)
    India launchMay 2024
    SegmentUpper mid-range
    Display6.1-inch, OLED (Actua), 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorGoogle Tensor G3
    RAM8 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageNo
    Rear cameras64 MP main + 13 MP ultrawide
    Front camera13 MP
    Battery4492 mAh
    Charging18W wired, wireless
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP67
    Headphone jackNo
    Weight188 g
    ColoursObsidian, Porcelain, Bay, Aloe

    What we like

    • Seven years of updates on a mid-ranger
    • Excellent camera for the price
    • Compact, easy to hold
    • 120Hz Actua display

    What could be better

    • Expensive for an A-series Pixel
    • Slow charging
    • Thick bezels and plastic back

    Who should buy it

    Buyers who want a small phone with Pixel cameras and long software support more than fast charging or gaming power.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (May 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G34 5G

    Motorola launched the Moto G34 5G in India in January 2024 at Rs 10,999 for 4 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. At that price it was among the most affordable ways to get 5G with a respected chipset, and it was aimed at first-time smartphone buyers and anyone wanting a reliable secondary phone.

    The Snapdragon 695 was a proven mid-range chip by then, and in a phone this cheap it delivers smoother performance than the entry-level MediaTek parts in many rivals. The 6.5-inch LCD runs at 120Hz but is only HD+ in resolution, so text looks slightly soft. Motorola includes stereo speakers, a headphone jack, microSD expansion and IP52 splash protection.

    Cameras are basic: a 50 MP main sensor and a 2 MP macro lens, with a 16 MP selfie camera. Daylight photos are usable, but low light is a struggle. The 5000 mAh battery comfortably lasts a day and a half, and the clean Android 14 build is a real advantage over ad-heavy budget skins from some rivals like the Redmi 13C 5G.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 10,999 (base variant)
    India launchJanuary 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 720 x 1600
    ProcessorSnapdragon 695
    RAM4 GB / 8 GB
    Storage128 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main + 2 MP macro
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging18W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursCharcoal Black, Ocean Green, Ice Blue

    What we like

    • Very affordable 5G phone
    • Snapdragon 695 is capable for the price
    • Clean software without ads
    • Stereo speakers and headphone jack

    What could be better

    • HD+ resolution only
    • Weak low-light camera
    • Slow charging

    Who should buy it

    First-time smartphone buyers who want 5G and clean software at the lowest possible price.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (January 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G64 5G

    The Moto G64 5G arrived in India in April 2024 at Rs 14,999 for 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage. It was a successor in spirit to the G54, and kept the same recipe: a large battery, clean software and a few useful hardware touches that budget phones often drop, such as OIS, stereo speakers and a headphone jack.

    The 6.5-inch full HD LCD runs at 120Hz. It is sharp and fluid but lacks the depth of the AMOLED screens on the Redmi Note 13 and Galaxy M35, and that is the main area where rivals pull ahead. The MediaTek Dimensity 7025 offers steady everyday performance and good efficiency, which pairs well with the 6000 mAh cell.

    On the back, a 50 MP main camera with OIS is joined by an 8 MP ultrawide, and the front has a 16 MP shooter. Battery life is the standout, easily stretching to two days for moderate users, with 33W charging. Android 14 with Motorola's light skin is uncluttered, though the update promise is shorter than Samsung offers on its M and F series.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 14,999 (base variant)
    India launchApril 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.5-inch, IPS LCD, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorMediaTek Dimensity 7025
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Expandable storageYes
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera16 MP
    Battery6000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    Headphone jackYes
    ColoursMint Green, Pearl Blue, Ice Lilac

    What we like

    • Excellent two-day battery life
    • OIS on the main camera
    • Headphone jack and microSD slot
    • Clean Android 14

    What could be better

    • LCD instead of AMOLED
    • Shorter update promise than Samsung
    • Average ultrawide camera

    Who should buy it

    Students and heavy users on a tight budget who value battery life above everything else.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (April 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.

  • Motorola Moto G85 5G

    Launched in India in July 2024 at Rs 17,999 for 8 GB plus 128 GB, the Moto G85 5G borrowed the curved-screen styling of Motorola's Edge phones and placed it in a budget-friendly price band. Vegan leather finishes and a slim profile make it look more expensive than it is, which is clearly the point.

    The 6.67-inch curved pOLED refreshes at 120Hz and is a highlight, with rich colour and good outdoor visibility. The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 is a modest chip, closer to the older Snapdragon 695 than to a true performance part, so heavy gamers should look at the Poco X6 or Realme Narzo 70 Pro instead. Everyday apps run smoothly on the clean Hello UI build of Android 14.

    Photography is handled by a 50 MP Sony LYT-600 main sensor with OIS and an 8 MP ultrawide, a dependable combination in daylight. The 32 MP front camera is better than most rivals at this price. A 5000 mAh battery and 33W charging give all-day endurance. Overall it is a design-led phone that does the basics well rather than chasing specifications.

    Key specifications

    Launch price (India)Rs 17,999 (base variant)
    India launchJuly 2024
    SegmentBudget
    Display6.67-inch, Curved pOLED, 120Hz, 1080 x 2400
    ProcessorSnapdragon 6s Gen 3
    RAM8 GB / 12 GB
    Storage128 GB / 256 GB
    Rear cameras50 MP main (OIS) + 8 MP ultrawide
    Front camera32 MP
    Battery5000 mAh
    Charging33W wired
    Software at launchAndroid 14, Hello UI
    5GYes
    Water/dust ratingIP52
    ColoursOlive Green, Cobalt Blue, Urban Grey

    What we like

    • Curved pOLED rare at this price
    • OIS on the Sony main camera
    • Slim, premium-looking design
    • Clean software

    What could be better

    • Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 is underpowered for gaming
    • Only IP52 splash resistance
    • 33W charging is average

    Who should buy it

    Style-conscious budget buyers who want a curved OLED and dependable cameras under Rs 20,000.

    Specifications and price are as at the India launch (July 2024). Prices change after launch – check current prices before buying.