The Lumia 650 was a highly anticipated smartphone released by Microsoft in 2016. As a successor to the Lumia 640, it brought several exciting features and improvements to the table. But when exactly did the Lumia 650 come out? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of its release date, specifications, and what made it a popular choice among smartphone enthusiasts.
The Release Date: A Brief History
The Lumia 650 was officially announced by Microsoft on February 15, 2016. This was a strategic move, as the company was looking to strengthen its presence in the mid-range smartphone market. At the time, the Lumia 650 was positioned as a budget-friendly option with advanced features, making it an attractive choice for those who wanted a high-quality smartphone without breaking the bank.
The Wait Was Worth It
After its announcement, the Lumia 650 was made available for pre-order in select countries, including the UK, France, and Germany. The phone was finally released to the public on March 1, 2016, in Europe, and on April 1, 2016, in the United States. The wait was worth it, as the Lumia 650 received positive reviews from critics and users alike.
Design and Display
One of the standout features of the Lumia 650 was its sleek and compact design. Weighing in at just 122 grams, it was incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry around. The phone’s body was crafted from durable polycarbonate, which provided a premium feel without the hefty price tag.
A Stunning Display
The Lumia 650 boasted a stunning 5-inch OLED display, with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. This resulted in a crisp and vibrant visual experience, perfect for watching videos, browsing the web, and playing games. The display was also equipped with features like ClearBlack technology, which helped to reduce glare and improve outdoor visibility.
Performance and Camera
Under the hood, the Lumia 650 packed a Qualcomm Snapdragon 212 processor, which provided a smooth and responsive user experience. The phone came with 1GB of RAM and 16GB of internal storage, expandable up to 200GB via a microSD card.
A Capable Camera
The Lumia 650 featured a 5-megapixel rear camera with an f/2.2 aperture and LED flash. While it may not have been the most impressive camera on the market, it was more than capable of capturing everyday moments and producing decent low-light shots. Additionally, the phone’s 5-megapixel front-facing camera made it perfect for selfies and video calls.
Software and Battery Life
The Lumia 650 ran on Windows 10 Mobile out of the box, providing users with a seamless and intuitive experience. Microsoft’s operating system was known for its user-friendly interface, making it easy for new users to navigate.
All-Day Battery Life
The phone was powered by a removable 2000mAh battery, which provided all-day battery life, even with moderate to heavy usage. This was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the Lumia 640, which had a smaller 2500mAh battery.
Verdict and Legacy
The Lumia 650 was a solid addition to Microsoft’s lineup of Windows phones. Its attractive design, capable camera, and decent performance made it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers. Although the phone’s release date was February 2016, it continued to receive updates and support from Microsoft until 2019.
A Lasting Impact
Although the Lumia 650 may not have been a flagship device, it played an important role in shaping the Windows phone ecosystem. Its release paved the way for future Lumia devices, including the Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL, which further refined the Windows phone experience.
| Specification | Lumia 650 |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 Mobile |
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon 212 |
| RAM | 1GB |
| Internal Storage | 16GB (expandable up to 200GB) |
| Rear Camera | 5-megapixel with LED flash |
| Front Camera | 5-megapixel |
| Battery | Removable 2000mAh |
| Display | 5-inch OLED with 1280 x 720 resolution |
In conclusion, the Lumia 650 was a noteworthy addition to Microsoft’s lineup of Windows phones. Its release date of February 15, 2016, marked the beginning of a new era for the company’s mid-range smartphone offerings. With its sleek design, capable camera, and decent performance, the Lumia 650 remains a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.
When is the Lumia 650 expected to be released?
The Lumia 650 is expected to be released in the first quarter of 2023, although an exact date has not been confirmed by Microsoft. There have been rumors of a February or March release, but these are just speculations at this point.
Microsoft has a history of releasing new devices in the early part of the year, so it’s likely that the Lumia 650 will follow a similar pattern. As soon as more information becomes available, we’ll be sure to update you on the exact release date.
What are the key features of the Lumia 650?
The Lumia 650 is expected to come with a 5-inch HD display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 212 processor, 1GB of RAM, and 8GB of internal storage. It will also feature a 5-megapixel rear camera and a 5-megapixel front camera, making it a great option for those who love taking selfies.
In addition to these features, the Lumia 650 will run on Windows 10 Mobile out of the box, offering users a seamless and integrated experience across all their devices. The device will also come with a range of Microsoft apps, including Office, Outlook, and OneDrive, making it a great option for business users.
Will the Lumia 650 support Continuum?
Yes, the Lumia 650 will support Continuum, which allows users to connect their phone to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, and use it like a PC. This feature is one of the standout features of Windows 10 Mobile and makes the Lumia 650 a great option for business users who need to stay productive on the go.
With Continuum, users will be able to access a desktop-like experience on their phone, complete with a start menu, windows, and a taskbar. This will make it easy to work on documents, check email, and browse the web, all from the comfort of their phone.
How much will the Lumia 650 cost?
The pricing of the Lumia 650 has not been officially confirmed by Microsoft, but based on rumors and leaks, it’s expected to be priced around $200-$300. This would make it a budget-friendly option for those looking for a Windows 10 Mobile device with a range of features.
At this price point, the Lumia 650 would be competing with other budget-friendly devices from manufacturers like Samsung and Huawei. However, with its range of features and Windows 10 Mobile operating system, it’s likely to be a popular option for those looking for a reliable and affordable smartphone.
Will the Lumia 650 have a fingerprint sensor?
No, the Lumia 650 is not expected to come with a fingerprint sensor. While this may be a disappointment for some, it’s worth noting that the device will come with a range of other security features, including Windows Hello, which uses facial recognition to unlock the device.
In addition to Windows Hello, the Lumia 650 will also come with other security features, such as encryption and secure boot. This means that users can be confident that their device and data are safe and secure, even without a fingerprint sensor.
Will the Lumia 650 be available in multiple colors?
Yes, the Lumia 650 is expected to be available in multiple colors, including white, black, and gold. There may also be other colors available, depending on the region and country.
This is in line with Microsoft’s approach to offering its devices in a range of colors, allowing users to personalize their device to suit their style and preferences. With multiple colors to choose from, users will be able to choose a device that reflects their personality and individuality.
Will the Lumia 650 support NFC?
Yes, the Lumia 650 is expected to support NFC (Near Field Communication), which allows users to make payments, transfer data, and pair devices with a simple tap. This is a useful feature for those who want to be able to make mobile payments or transfer data quickly and easily.
With NFC support, users will be able to use services like Microsoft Wallet to make payments, as well as pair devices like speakers and headphones. This adds to the overall convenience and usability of the device, making it a great option for those who want a smartphone that can keep up with their busy lifestyle.