Microsoft Lumia 850 Specs Pricing Pros & Cons Uncovered

Microsoft Lumia 850 Overview

Microsoft Lumia 850 is an intriguing device positioned in the mid-range category. Although the device was not officially announced or released to the market, it still garners interest among technology enthusiasts for its unique features and the potential it represented in the Lumia lineup. Let's delve into its specifications and offerings.

Network Capabilities

The Lumia 850 supports a variety of network technologies, including GSM, HSPA, and LTE. It offers compatibility with 2G bands (GSM 850, 900, 1800, 1900) for both single and dual-SIM models, making it versatile for users across different regions. For 3G, it supports HSDPA 850, 900, 1900, and 2100 bands, ensuring good connectivity for improved mobile internet usage. The device also supports unspecified 4G LTE bands, providing faster data rates up to LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps.

Launch and Availability

Microsoft Lumia 850 was speculated upon but ultimately not officially announced or released. The status of the device is marked as discontinued, representing a concept from Microsoft that did not come to fruition, but which still holds interest in the Lumia legacy.

Design and Build

Although detailed dimensions and weight are not specified, the Lumia 850 was expected to embody the classic Lumia design philosophy, emphasizing robust build quality and ergonomic comfort. The device offered options for Single SIM (Nano-SIM) or Dual SIM configurations (Nano-SIM, dual stand-by), catering to a wider audience with varying SIM preferences.

Display

The device features a 5.0-inch IPS LCD display, offering a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels. This provided a pixel density of approximately 294 ppi, striking a balance between size and clarity. The IPS technology ensures wider viewing angles and better color reproduction, making it suitable for everyday use. The inclusion of display protection was not confirmed, which is something users may have wished to see in a potential release model.

Performance and Software

Lumia 850 was designed to run on Microsoft Windows 10, providing users access to a familiar and productive user interface. The device is powered by a Qualcomm MSM8916 Snapdragon 410 chipset with a quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A53 processor. While not the most powerful processor available, it offers adequate power for typical tasks such as browsing, social media, and light multitasking. The Adreno 306 GPU supports basic graphical tasks and casual gaming experiences.

Memory and Storage

The device comes with 16GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via a dedicated microSDXC slot. This provides flexibility for users with larger storage needs. It is equipped with 1GB RAM, which is sufficient for basic tasks but may struggle with more demanding applications in 2023's standards.

Camera Features

The Lumia 850 features a 10 MP main camera with Carl Zeiss optics, promising quality photography with attention to detail. The presence of autofocus (AF) and Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) ensures sharper images and less blur from hand movement. Photography enthusiasts would appreciate features like LED flash and panorama mode. The main camera is capable of recording 1080p videos at 30fps with stereo sound, offering a decent video recording experience.

The front-facing selfie camera is 2 MP, complemented with an LED flash—useful for low-light situations and video calls.

Audio and Connectivity

The Lumia 850 caters to audio enthusiasts with a standard 3.5mm headphone jack and a loudspeaker for music playback or calls. For connectivity, the device includes Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n with dual-band and hotspot capabilities, Bluetooth 4.1 with A2DP, EDR, LE, and aptX, providing various options for wireless connections and data transfer. It also supports GPS, GLONASS, and BDS for positioning services, NFC for quick file transfers, and FM radio for on-the-go entertainment. The microUSB 2.0 port ensures standard wired connectivity.

Sensors and Additional Features

The Lumia 850 comes equipped with several sensors: accelerometer, gyro, proximity, and compass, enhancing its functionality in various applications, from navigation to interactive gaming experiences.

Battery and Charging

The device is powered by a removable Li-Ion battery with unspecified capacity. It supports wireless (Qi) charging, a forward-thinking inclusion for user convenience, eliminating the need for cables and enhancing the ease of charging processes.

Color Options

Available in black, the Lumia 850 presented a sleek and professional aesthetic, appealing to users preferring a classic and understated look.

Conclusion

While the Microsoft Lumia 850 was never officially released, it remains a fascinating part of the Lumia series. The device, with its middle-of-the-road features and Windows 10 integration, represents a balance between usability and performance in the mid-range category. For enthusiasts and collectors of the Lumia brand, Lumia 850 holds a position as a conceptual model of what could have been another robust offering from Microsoft.