Anticipated New Smartphones Coming to Nepal in Early 2022

Nepal's smartphone market experienced notable expansion in 2021, even amid pandemic-related obstacles. A variety of devices debuted last year, spanning from entry-level models to premium flagships, including a few foldable options. This momentum is expected to carry into 2022, with several significant releases anticipated in the early months of the year.

One of the most awaited launches is the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE, which was originally scheduled for a 2021 debut but faced delays primarily due to ongoing semiconductor shortages. Leaks suggest it will feature a 6.41-inch AMOLED display with a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, powered by either a Snapdragon 888 or Exynos chipset, with the latter expected for the Nepalese market. The device boasts a 12MP triple-camera system and a substantial 4,500mAh battery supporting 25W fast charging. The anticipated price is Rs. 95,000 for the 8GB/256GB variant.

Samsung will also introduce the Galaxy A03 Core, targeting the budget segment. This model sports a 6.5-inch HD+ LCD screen with an Infinity-V notch and is likely equipped with a Unisoc SC9863A octa-core processor. It runs Android 11 Go Edition with Samsung's One UI Core, includes an 8MP rear camera and a 5MP front camera, and is powered by a large 5,000mAh battery with 7.75W charging. The expected price is Rs. 13,500 for the 2GB/32GB configuration.

Xiaomi will kick off its 2022 Nepalese lineup with the Xiaomi 11T, featuring a vibrant 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz adaptive sync refresh rate. Under the hood sits MediaTek's Dimensity 1200 Ultra chip, with options for up to 8GB RAM and 256GB UFS 3.1 storage. The camera setup includes a dominant 108MP primary sensor alongside an 8MP ultrawide and a 5MP telemacro lens. A sizable 5,000mAh battery supports rapid 67W charging. Prices are expected to start at Rs. 75,000 for the 8GB/128GB model, rising to Rs. 80,000 for the 8GB/256GB variant.

Motorola is set to expand its presence beyond the sub-20K budget range with two new models: the Moto G51 5G and the Moto G31. The G51 5G is a mid-range 5G device powered by a Snapdragon 480+ processor, displaying a 6.8-inch FHD+ panel with a 120Hz refresh rate. Its triple-camera system includes a 50MP main sensor, an 8MP ultrawide, and a 2MP macro lens, backed by a 5,000mAh battery with 10W charging. It is anticipated at Rs. 30,000 for the 4GB/64GB version. The G31, similar in design but with a 6.4-inch AMOLED screen and MediaTek Helio G85 chipset, offers a 5,000mAh battery with faster 20W charging, expected at Rs. 27,000 for the 4GB/64GB model and Rs. 30,000 for the 6GB/128GB configuration.

Vivo will enter the market with the V23e, available in both 4G and 5G variants, though the 4G model is likely to reach Nepal first. Powered by a MediaTek G96 chipset, the V23e emphasizes its stylish design and a standout 50MP selfie camera with Eye AutoFocus. Additional features include a 6.44-inch AMOLED display, a 64MP triple rear camera setup, a 4,050mAh battery, and 44W fast charging. The expected price is Rs. 45,000 for the 8GB/128GB variant.

Redmi will aim to replicate the success of its popular Note series with the Redmi Note 11 Pro 5G, expected to go global in 2022. This model features a sleek flat-edge design with an IP53 rating and a 6.67-inch AMOLED display offering a 120Hz refresh rate and a rapid 360Hz touch sampling rate. It is equipped with a Dimensity 920 chipset built on TSMC's 6nm process, includes vapor chamber cooling, and offers a triple-camera setup led by a 108MP primary sensor. The device supports 67W fast charging, Wi-Fi 6, stereo speakers, and NFC. Expected prices range from Rs. 37,000 for the 6GB/128GB version to Rs. 40,000 for the 8GB/128GB model, with a higher-end Rs. 45,000 option for the 8GB/256GB configuration also mentioned.

Lastly, Poco will release the M4 Pro 5G following the mixed reception of its M3 Pro 5G. The M4 Pro 5G features a 6.6-inch IPS display with a 90Hz refresh rate and up to 240Hz touch sampling, powered by MediaTek's Dimensity 810 chipset. It simplifies its camera setup to just two lenses: a 50MP primary and an ultrawide, discarding lesser-used 2MP sensors. The phone includes a 5,000mAh battery with 33W fast charging. Prices are anticipated at Rs. 32,000 for the 4GB/64GB variant and Rs. 35,500 for the 6GB/128GB model.

These upcoming devices illustrate the diverse options coming to the Nepalese market in early 2022, catering to various needs and budgets.