Nokia 8110 4G Review: Retro Charm Meets Modern Connectivity

DumbishPhones is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate, We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more.

Remember the iconic banana phone from The Matrix? It’s back and better than ever! The Nokia 8110 4G brings a blast of nostalgia with some modern upgrades. This curved slider phone now has 4G connectivity, letting you stay connected while embracing retro cool.

HMD Global unveiled the reborn 8110 at MWC 2018, aiming to recapture the magic of the original. You’ll find familiar features like the sliding cover and curved shape. But now it runs a simple smartphone OS and can handle basic apps. The 2.4-inch color screen and 2MP camera are basic, but they get the job done for calls, texts, and quick snaps.

Is the Nokia 8110 4G right for you? It’s perfect if you want a fun secondary phone or to take a break from your smartphone. The battery lasts for days, and the simple interface helps you focus. Plus, you can relive those Matrix moments by dramatically answering calls with a slide.

Nokia 8110 4G Specs

Launch	April 2018
Size & Weight	133.5 x 49.3 x 14.9mm, 117 g
Display	2.4-inch TFT screen, 240 x 320 pixels
Operating System	KaiOS 2.5.1
Memory & Storage	512 MB RAM, 4 GB storage, plus a microSD slot
Camera	2 MP rear camera with LED flash
Audio	Loudspeaker, 3.5 mm headphone jack
Battery	1,500 mAh battery
Networks	2G, 3G, and 4G LTE
Other Features	Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, and apps like Facebook

Design And Build Quality

The Nokia 8110 4G brings back the iconic “banana phone” design with a modern twist. You’ll notice its curved shape right away, reminiscent of the original 1996 model.

The phone comes in two eye-catching colors: traditional black and vibrant banana yellow. The yellow version is sure to turn heads wherever you go.

A sliding cover protects the keypad when not in use. Slide it down to answer calls or reveal the buttons. This satisfying mechanism adds a fun, tactile element to using the phone.

The build quality feels solid and durable. The plastic body is sturdy enough to withstand everyday use. At just 117 grams, it’s lightweight and easy to carry in your pocket.

The 2.4-inch color screen is small by today’s standards but serves its purpose well. The curved glass over the flat display creates an interesting visual effect.

You’ll find the navigation buttons and alphanumeric keypad familiar if you used feature phones in the past. The buttons are responsive and comfortable to press.

While not a smartphone, the 8110 4G’s design strikes a nice balance between nostalgia and modern functionality. It’s a conversation starter that can handle basic communication needs.

Display And User Interface

The Nokia 8110 4G sports a small 2.4-inch TFT display. With a resolution of 240 x 320 pixels, it’s not as sharp as modern smartphones, but it’s adequate for basic tasks.

The screen is bright enough for indoor use, though you might struggle to see it clearly in direct sunlight. Colors appear somewhat muted, but text is generally crisp and readable.

You’ll navigate the phone using a physical keypad and a directional pad. This can feel clunky if you’re used to touchscreens, but it’s responsive and gets the job done.

The user interface runs on KaiOS, a lightweight operating system designed for feature phones. It’s simple and easy to use, with large icons and clear menus.

You can access basic apps like a web browser, messaging, and even some social media platforms. However, don’t expect the smooth performance of a smartphone.

The keypad allows for T9 predictive text input, which can be faster than tap-typing on a touchscreen for some users. It takes a bit of practice to get used to, though.

Overall, the display and interface are functional but basic. They’re well-suited for users who prefer simplicity over advanced features.

Battery And Connectivity

The Nokia 8110 4G comes with a removable 1,500 mAh battery. You’ll find it easy to swap out if needed. This capacity should get you through a full day of use.

Charging takes a while, though. It takes about 3 hours to fully charge the phone. In an hour, you can expect to get around 60% battery life.

For connectivity, you’ve got some nice options:

4G LTE support
Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n
Bluetooth 4.1
GPS/AGPS

You can use the 8110 4G as a mobile hotspot to share your internet connection. This is handy when you’re out and about with other devices.

The phone also supports VoLTE for high-quality voice calls over 4G networks. You’ll enjoy clearer sound during your chats.

While there’s no NFC, you still get plenty of ways to stay connected. Whether you’re browsing, calling, or using location services, this little phone has you covered.

Additional Features And Tools

The Nokia 8110 4G comes with some handy extras to make your life easier. You’ll find a basic web browser for quick internet searches on the go. There’s also a simple email client to check your messages.

Facebook fans will be happy to know there’s a basic app for staying connected. You can post updates and see what your friends are up to.

Google Assistant is built-in, letting you use voice commands to set reminders or check the weather. Google Maps is also included to help you find your way around town.

The phone has an app store, but don’t expect a huge selection. You’ll find some basic games and tools to download.

Music lovers can enjoy the FM radio or play their own tunes. The 3.5mm headphone jack lets you plug in your favorite headphones for better sound.

Other useful tools include:

Calculator
Calendar
Notes app
Alarm clock
Flashlight function

While not as feature-packed as a smartphone, the Nokia 8110 4G offers enough to keep you connected and organized in a simple package.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Nokia 8110 4G brings back a classic design with modern features. Here are some common questions about this unique 4G phone.

How does the Nokia 8110 4G perform for daily use?

The Nokia 8110 4G works well for basic tasks. You can make calls, send texts, and check email. It has a small 2.4-inch screen and a number pad for typing. The phone runs simple apps, but don’t expect smartphone-level performance.

Can you use WhatsApp on the Nokia 8110 4G?

Yes, you can use WhatsApp on the Nokia 8110 4G. The phone comes with the KaiOS app store. You can download WhatsApp from there. Keep in mind it’s a basic version with fewer features than smartphone apps.

What are the connectivity options available on the Nokia 8110 4G?

The Nokia 8110 4G offers several ways to connect. It has 4G LTE for fast mobile data. You also get Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. There’s a micro-USB port for charging and file transfers.

Is Spotify available on the Nokia 8110 4G?

Spotify is not available on the Nokia 8110 4G. The phone’s app selection is limited compared to smartphones. You can listen to music with the built-in MP3 player or FM radio instead.

How much does the Nokia 8110 4G cost?

The Nokia 8110 4G is priced for budget-conscious buyers. You can usually find it for under $100. Prices may vary depending on your location and any promotions.

When did the Nokia 8110 4G first come out?

Nokia released the 8110 4G in 2018. It’s a modern take on the original 8110 from 1996. The new version adds 4G connectivity and updated features while keeping the classic “banana phone” look.