Nokia is back with a bang! After years of being associated with sturdy phones and clean Android software, Nokia has finally stepped into the competitive mid-premium smartphone market in 2025 with the all-new Nokia X500. Known for its durability, security, and simplicity, Nokia has always carried a reputation for reliability. The X500 marks a significant evolution—it combines premium design, a powerful chipset, flagship-level cameras, and long-lasting battery life at a price that challenges even the most popular mid-range brands.
Introduction
The smartphone market in 2025 is more competitive than ever. Brands like Samsung, OnePlus, iQOO, and Realme dominate the mid-range and premium categories. But Nokia aims to reclaim its legacy with the X500 by offering a future-ready, feature-packed phone without the flagship-level price tag.
The Nokia X500 focuses on three things:
- Premium Build and Design
- High-End Performance for Multitasking and Gaming
- Exceptional Battery Life and Software Support
Let’s dive deeper and see if Nokia has truly delivered on these promises.
Nokia X500 2025 – Key Specifications
- Display: 6.7-inch AMOLED Full HD+, 120Hz refresh rate, Gorilla Glass Victus 2
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 2
- RAM: 8GB / 12GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 128GB / 256GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD)
- Rear Cameras:
- 200MP primary sensor with OIS
- 12MP ultra-wide
- 8MP macro
- Front Camera: 50MP AI-powered selfie shooter
- Battery: 6000mAh with 65W fast charging, 30W wireless charging, reverse wireless charging
- Software: Stock Android 15
- Security: In-display fingerprint scanner, AI face unlock
- Build: Aerospace-grade aluminum frame, Gorilla Glass Victus 2, IP68 rating
- Audio: Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio, 3.5mm jack
- Connectivity: Dual 5G SIM, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3, NFC
- Price: Starting from ₹24,999 in India
Design and Build Quality
If you’ve used a Nokia device in the past, you already know build quality is their strength. The Nokia X500 carries forward that legacy with a premium aluminum frame and Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection on both the front and back. This combination ensures strength, scratch resistance, and durability, while maintaining a sleek and stylish look.
Design Highlights
- Frame: Aerospace-grade aluminum for robustness
- Weight: 190 grams – surprisingly light for a 6000mAh battery
- Colors: Midnight Blue, Graphite Black, Emerald Green
- Certification: IP68 dust and water resistance
Unlike some flashy competitors, Nokia opts for elegant sophistication over gimmicks. It feels solid, premium, and comfortable in the hand.
Display – A Visual Treat
The display is often the first thing people notice, and Nokia doesn’t disappoint. The X500 features a 6.7-inch AMOLED Full HD+ panel with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, making everything from scrolling to gaming buttery smooth.
Display Features
- Resolution: Full HD+ (2400 x 1080)
- Refresh Rate: 120Hz adaptive for power efficiency
- Brightness: 1200 nits peak brightness for sunlight readability
- Protection: Gorilla Glass Victus 2
- HDR Support: HDR10+ for richer color and contrast
Watching Netflix in HDR, gaming on high settings, or just browsing social media feels immersive and fluid.
Performance and Hardware
Under the hood, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 chipset powers the Nokia X500. Built on a 6nm architecture, it offers a great balance of performance and efficiency.
Performance Highlights
- CPU: Octa-core with Kryo architecture for speed and multitasking
- GPU: Adreno 725 for smooth graphics performance
- RAM: 8GB and 12GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1, expandable up to 1TB
Real-world usage
- Gaming: Titles like Call of Duty Mobile and Genshin Impact run at high settings without noticeable lag.
- Multitasking: Switching between heavy apps like video editors, social media, and browsers is seamless.
- Heat Management: Thanks to efficient cooling and 6nm design, the phone doesn’t overheat under load.
Camera System – Is It a Flagship Killer?
One of the most eye-catching features of the Nokia X500 is its 200MP primary camera.
Rear Camera Setup
- 200MP Primary Sensor: Crisp details, natural colors, and sharp low-light performance.
- 12MP Ultra-Wide: Ideal for landscapes and group shots.
- 8MP Macro Lens: For creative close-up photography.
Front Camera
50MP AI-powered selfie camera: Excellent clarity, night mode, and wide-angle selfies.
- Video Recording:
- Rear Camera: Up to 8K resolution with HDR10+ support.
- Front Camera: 4K video for vloggers and content creators.
If you love photography, this phone competes with flagship devices in terms of versatility and quality.
Battery Life and Charging Speed
The 6000mAh battery is a major selling point. It easily lasts two days for regular users and a full day of heavy usage (gaming, streaming, camera use).
Charging Features
- 65W Fast Charging: 0% to 50% in 30 minutes.
- 30W Wireless Charging: Convenient and quick.
- Reverse Wireless Charging: Charge your earbuds or other devices.
This makes the X500 a beast for power users who hate carrying chargers everywhere.
Software and User Experience
Nokia stays true to its clean software promise with stock Android 15 out of the box. No bloatware, no unnecessary ads—just a smooth, pure Android experience.
Software Highlights
- Material You theming: Personalized UI.
- AI-powered performance optimization: Better battery and app management.
- Advanced Privacy Controls: For security-conscious users.
- Update Policy: 3 major Android updates + 4 years of security patches.
This long-term software support makes the Nokia X500 a future-proof investment.
Audio and Entertainment
Entertainment lovers will appreciate
- Stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos – rich, immersive sound.
- Hi-Res Audio certification – audiophile-grade clarity.
- 3.5mm headphone jack – a rare find in 2025.
Combined with the AMOLED display, the X500 offers cinema-like experience in your pocket.
The Nokia X500 will launch globally in October 2025.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Premium design with IP68 rating
- 6.7-inch AMOLED 120Hz display
- Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 performance
- 200MP primary camera with OIS
- 6000mAh battery with 65W fast charging
- Stock Android 15 with guaranteed updates
Cons
- No 100W+ charging like some rivals
- Plastic frame would have been cheaper (but Nokia chose premium aluminum)
- No periscope zoom lens for advanced photography
Final Verdict
The Nokia X500 2025 is not just another mid-range phone—it’s a statement from Nokia that the brand is ready to compete in the modern smartphone world. From aerospace-grade build quality and flagship-level cameras to a huge battery and clean software experience, the X500 checks almost every box.
If you’re someone who values:
- Premium design
- Strong battery life
- Flagship camera features
- Clean Android experience with long-term updates