Old Nokia 5310 Relaunched: In an era dominated by smartphones with expansive touchscreens and cutting-edge features, Nokia has made a bold move by reintroducing one of its most beloved classics – the Nokia 5310 XpressMusic. This article delves into the details of this nostalgic relaunch, exploring its features, pricing, and reception in the Indian market.
In a surprising move that has delighted nostalgic phone enthusiasts across India, Nokia has relaunched its iconic 5310 XpressMusic phone in 2025. This relaunch comes at a time when the mobile phone market is saturated with high-end smartphones, yet there remains a significant demand for simpler, more focused devices. The Nokia 5310, known for its music-centric features and long battery life, aims to capture this niche market while rekindling fond memories for many users.
The Legacy of Nokia 5310
The original Nokia 5310 XpressMusic, launched in 2007, quickly became a favorite among music lovers. Its dedicated music controls, impressive sound quality, and sleek design made it stand out in the pre-smartphone era. The phone’s popularity wasn’t just limited to its music capabilities; it was also known for its durability and long battery life – features that many users still yearn for in today’s smartphones.
Features and Specifications
The relaunched Nokia 5310 stays true to its roots while incorporating some modern touches. Here’s a detailed look at its specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Display | 2.4-inch QVGA screen |
| Storage | 16MB internal, expandable up to 32GB via microSD |
| RAM | 8MB |
| Camera | VGA rear camera with LED flash |
| Battery | 1200 mAh, removable |
| OS | Nokia Series 30+ |
| Connectivity | 2G, Bluetooth 3.0, Micro USB |
| Music Features | Dedicated music buttons, FM radio, MP3 player |
| Colors | White/Red, Black/Red |
While these specifications might seem modest compared to modern smartphones, they are perfectly aligned with the phone’s purpose as a simple, music-focused device.
Design and Build Quality
Nokia has retained the classic design of the 5310, with a few modern tweaks. The phone features the iconic dual-tone color scheme, available in White/Red and Black/Red variants. The build quality remains robust, with a durable plastic body that can withstand accidental drops – a hallmark of old Nokia phones.
The dedicated music control buttons on the side of the phone are a standout feature, allowing easy access to music playback functions. The keypad is responsive and well-spaced, making it comfortable for texting and dialing.
Music Experience
True to its XpressMusic heritage, the Nokia 5310 (2025) shines in its audio capabilities. The phone comes equipped with:
- Dual front-facing speakers for enhanced audio output
- 3.5mm headphone jack for personal listening
- FM radio with wireless playback (no headphones required)
- MP3 player supporting various audio formats
The combination of these features makes the 5310 a portable music powerhouse, perfect for users who prioritize audio quality and convenience over advanced smartphone features.
Battery Life
One of the most praised aspects of the relaunched Nokia 5310 is its impressive battery life. The 1200 mAh removable battery offers:
- Up to 22 hours of talk time
- Up to 30 days of standby time
- Approximately 40 hours of continuous music playback
This long-lasting battery performance is a significant selling point, especially for users tired of the daily charging routine required by most smartphones.
Pricing and Variants
Nokia has positioned the 5310 as an affordable, feature-focused device. Here’s a breakdown of the available variants and their pricing:
| Variant | Storage | Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 16MB (expandable) | ₹3,599 |
| XpressMusic Edition | 16MB (expandable) + Enhanced Audio | ₹3,999 |
These competitive price points make the Nokia 5310 an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers and those looking for a reliable secondary phone.
Target Audience
The relaunched Nokia 5310 caters to several demographics:
- Nostalgic users who miss the simplicity of older phones
- Music enthusiasts looking for a dedicated music device
- Individuals seeking a durable, long-lasting secondary phone
- Older users who find smartphones overwhelming
- Parents looking for a simple, affordable phone for their children
Comparison with Modern Smartphones
While the Nokia 5310 can’t compete with smartphones in terms of advanced features, it offers unique advantages:
| Feature | Nokia 5310 (2025) | Average Smartphone |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | Up to 30 days standby | 1-2 days standby |
| Durability | High | Varies (often fragile) |
| Simplicity | Very simple to use | Can be complex |
| Price | Affordable (₹3,599 – ₹3,999) | Wide range (₹5,000 – ₹100,000+) |
| Music Focus | Dedicated music controls | Integrated music apps |
| Distraction-Free | Limited apps, fewer distractions | Multiple apps, notifications |
This comparison highlights the Nokia 5310’s strengths in areas that matter to its target audience.
Expert Opinions
Industry experts have weighed in on the Nokia 5310 relaunch:
Faisal Kawoosa, Founder and Chief Analyst at techARC, states: “The relaunch of the Nokia 5310 is a clever move by Nokia to tap into the growing ‘digital detox’ trend. While it won’t compete with smartphones, it offers a unique proposition for users looking to disconnect without losing basic connectivity.”
Navkendar Singh, Research Director at IDC India, adds: “There’s still a significant market for feature phones in India, especially in tier 2 and 3 cities. The Nokia 5310, with its music-centric features and brand nostalgia, could carve out a niche for itself in this segment.”
Customer Reviews
Real users have shared their experiences with the relaunched Nokia 5310:
Nishikanth N from Bangalore writes on Amazon: “I was initially hesitant to buy this phone when cheaper options from Nokia were available, but I can say without a doubt that the extra ₹1500 is worth it. The phone isn’t too small or big, it fits perfectly in palm. The buttons are smooth. The quality of call and music is good. The battery lasts for more than 3 to 4 days easily.”
Priya Sharma, a college student from Mumbai, shares: “Bought this as a secondary phone for exams. Love the nostalgia and the fact that it has basic features without distractions. The music quality is surprisingly good!”
However, not all reviews are positive. Ramana from Hyderabad notes: “Sound not clear in some cases. Expected better audio quality given its music-focused nature.”
Pros and Cons
After thorough analysis, here are the key pros and cons of the relaunched Nokia 5310:
Pros:
- Excellent battery life
- Durable build quality
- Dedicated music controls
- Simple and easy to use
- Affordable pricing
- Nostalgic appeal
Cons:
- Limited functionality compared to smartphones
- Basic camera quality
- No internet browsing capabilities
- Limited internal storage (though expandable)
Conclusion
The relaunch of the Nokia 5310 in 2025 is a bold move in a smartphone-dominated market. It caters to a niche but significant audience who value simplicity, durability, and focused functionality over advanced features. While it won’t replace smartphones for most users, it offers a compelling option as a secondary device or for those looking to disconnect from the digital world without losing basic communication capabilities.
The Nokia 5310’s success will largely depend on how well it can leverage its nostalgic appeal while meeting the basic communication and music needs of its target audience. Its competitive pricing and unique feature set position it well in the feature phone segment, especially in tier 2 and 3 cities in India.
As the mobile industry continues to evolve, the Nokia 5310 serves as a reminder that there’s still room for simplicity and focused functionality in our increasingly complex digital landscape. Whether it will achieve the iconic status of its predecessor remains to be seen, but it certainly offers a unique proposition in today’s mobile market.