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By Faizel Patel

Senior Digital Journalist


Nokia launches affordable 5G capable G42 smartphone

The new device is made with a 65% recycled back cover and boxed in FSC-certified mixed packaging.


HMD Global, the home of Nokia phones, has launched  the G42 smartphone with 5G connectivity and extended battery life, which has become critical in a fast-paced technology world.

The new device is made with a 65% recycled back cover and boxed in FSC-certified mixed packaging at a time when tech companies across the globe are focusing on environmentally friendly products.

The Nokia G42 5G is a Dual SIM, available in charcoal colour with 128 GB storage and 4 GB memory configurations priced from R4,999, which is affordable for people on a budget.

However, besides its 5G capabilities, it is a basic handset that does the job and can be repaired at a reasonable cost, or if you are technically inclined, you can do it yourself.

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Basic features

Lars Silberbauer, CMO of HMD Global, said the G42’s battery allows users to stay online.

“Most phone batteries don’t last the day, with the new sleek Nokia G42 5G consumers get a three-day battery to keep them up and running, even during blackouts. This phone has great power, plenty of storage for games and files and affordable 5G so you can avoid the lag.”

Powering the G42 is the Snapdragon 480 Plus 5G Mobile Platform memory.

The camera is not too shabby, with a 50MP shooter which works with AI to capture clear shots, which can all be viewed on the 6.56” HD+ display.

The G42 maintains a 3-day battery life. I would have expected more, but it will keep 80% of its original capacity after 800 full charging cycles – about four years of charges.

Like all Nokia phones, the G42 5G, according to Nokia, has been rigorously tested for durability against everyday knocks and stays up to date, with three years of monthly security updates and two years of OS upgrades.

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