Upcoming smartphones to look forward to – November 2012

We’re going to be seeing some big smartphone launches making it out in the next couple of months. The tech is also undergoing a few updates as manufacturers are rushing to develop better displays, slimmer handset models and innovative new designs; they’re even using better materials to ensure good build. There are a lot of releases or unveilings expected at the very least at CES next year. CES always kicks off the tech year with a bang. From the many rumours, leaks and announcements that are running rampant across the industry, here are a few of the devices we’re most looking forward to seeing soon.

Please note that the prices mentioned are either estimated or approximate grey market rates that could vary at the time of an official launch, or depending on your location and dealer.

Google Nexus 4 – Rs. 28,400 (16GB model, as shown on eBay)

The next big launch from Google’s camp in terms of hardware is the Nexus 4. This time around, LG has taken up the gauntlet and from initial findings and posts, it’s going to be every bit as good as any of the previous Nexus editions. Also, like earlier Nexus versions, the Nexus 4 will not support external memory and will be available in 8GB and 16GB options. The True HD IPS Plus display panel should make viewing a very pleasant experience. Watch out, Retina Display! The 1.5GHz Quad Core processor coupled with Jelly Bean’s (4.2.1) Project Butter should keep things smooth and speedy for all access and functionality.

Enter the all new Nexus, and this time LG's got the ball

Huawei Ascend D2 – Rs. 38,000 (Est.)

The Phablet community just got a new member. China’s Huawei has announced its entry into the 5-inch display mobile market with the upcoming Ascend D2. The company is pulling out all the stops on this one and loading it up with all the goodies you’ll need for a smooth operation. The D2 will feature a Quad-Core processor of the 1.5GHz variety along with a full HD display. The handset will also feature Huawei’s own custom UI called Emotion that will be running in Android Jelly Bean (4.1). There’s also a rumour that the device will be water and dust proof to boot. Huawei is yet to confirm most of the details and specs.

All set to compete with the Note II

Galaxy S III Mini – Rs. 28,000 (Est)

Post the immense success of the Galaxy S III and following the route that Samsung usually takes, the Korean company has announced the S III Mini. A smaller device with slightly lower grade specs to appease those who can’t afford the higher priced S III, the mini will feature a 1GHZ Dual Core processor, smaller display and lower MP camera. It still has quite a bit to offer users. Although the device seems to have been launched only for the German market, we’re hoping Samsung might consider launching the device on our shores as well. 

If you can't afford big brother, perhaps this will suffice

Asus PadFone 2 – Rs. 64,000 (Est. for Full Kit), Rs. 35,000 (Est. for the phone)

The Padfone didn’t seem to make quite the impact as hoped, although the concept was surely quite solid. The idea of having a unified device that is usable as a tablet and a smartphone, either integrated or separated, was a grand idea. However, the device was not without its glitches. Hopefully, the PadFone 2 will have fixed those bugs and this version sporting a Quad Core 1.5GHz processor and a 13MP camera might just make up for the disappointing earlier edition. The PadFone 2 will also have a docking station tablet (optional) that has its own specs, which includes a whopping 5000 mAH battery and a 10.1-inch IPS display sporting a 1280 x 800 pixel resolution. 

Let's hope all wrinkles have been ironed out

BlackBerry 10 Devices

RIM is gearing up in full swing for its upcoming launch of new devices both in the QWERTY and touchscreen segments. This time around, it’s not going to be just a lot of new hardware that will make it out, but a total revival of the OS, or a ‘Reboot’ as we like saying these days. RIM is banking heavily on BlackBerry 10 to pull it out of the rut it's in at present. And from what we’ve seen so far, it looks like it could just work for RIM. The all new OS, BlackBerry 10 and corresponding devices in the 'L' and 'N' series will usher in a new era for the Canadian company that seems to be looking at the industry with a fresh perspective. Initial test devices that have been making the rounds look quite generic but sleek enough to get your attention. The UI looks and feels quite new but very similar to the PlayBooks based on the QNX-based operating system. And that is a good thing. Although there are a few leaked images of these handsets, there's not much we can tell about the specs. Nevertheless, we’re looking forward to the all new line-up from RIM. 

What will the the new OS bring? It's not going to be too long a wait to find out

Once again, please note that the prices mentioned above are our own estimated values as manufacturers have not yet disclosed official price tags.

It looks like this holiday season and New Year will be quite thrilling for the mobile fans. There’s a lot of gear to look forward to. Aside from what’s on our list here, do tell us which devices you’re most looking forward to seeing on the Indian shelves.

Compliments of the season!