Nokia X platform
View on Wikipedia| Nokia X software platform | |
|---|---|
![]() Nokia X home screen in Vietnamese | |
| Developer | Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code: Google Modifications: Microsoft Mobile (formerly Nokia) |
| Written in | C (core), C++, Java (UI)[1] |
| OS family | Linux |
| Source model | Proprietary software based on open source Android[2] and in all devices with proprietary components[3] |
| Initial release | 2014 |
| Latest release | Nokia X software platform 2.1 |
| Marketing target | Smartphones |
| Package manager | APK |
| Supported platforms | 32-bit ARM |
| Kernel type | Monolithic (modified Linux kernel) |
| Userland | Bionic libc,[4] mksh shell,[5] native core utilities with a few from NetBSD[6] |
| Default user interface | Graphical (Multi-touch) |
| License | Proprietary EULA; based on Apache License 2.0 Modified Linux kernel under GNU GPL v2[7] |
| Official website | developer |
The Nokia X platform was a Linux-based mobile operating system and software platform originally developed by Nokia, and subsequently by Microsoft Mobile. Introduced on 24 February 2014, it was forked from Android and used on all the devices of the Nokia X family. It was also the next Nokia Linux project after the ill-fated MeeGo.
On 17 July 2014, after the acquisition of Nokia's devices unit, Microsoft announced that no more Nokia X smartphones would be introduced, marking the end of the Nokia X platform within only a few months after its introduction.[8] The phones were succeeded by low-cost Lumia devices under the Microsoft Mobile brand name.[9] Microsoft did not release an Android-based device under their own brand until 2020, in the form of the foldable Surface Duo.[10]
Overview
[edit]The Nokia X software platform was based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP)[11] and the Linux kernel.[12] Nokia combined Android apps with Nokia experiences (such as HERE Maps, Nokia Xpress and MixRadio) and Microsoft services (such as Skype and Outlook). Nokia officially described the software as bringing "the best of all worlds". It also encompasses features from the Asha platform, such as the Fastlane notification centre. The user interface mimics that of Windows Phone.
The OS has been compared to Amazon.com's Fire OS, which is also based on AOSP.
Applications
[edit]Google's applications were replaced by Nokia's and Microsoft's. When first released, the Google Play store was not included, with Nokia offering apps from their own Nokia Store. After the v2.1 update in September 2014 users were allowed to install Google Play and various other Google services through third party tools, but if users attempt to install Google services on their Nokia X devices it would usually be "bricked" and would require the Nokia Software Recovery Tool to restore the data.[13]
As of February 2014, 75% of Android apps were compatible with the platform. Nokia noted that developers could port the remaining missing apps in a matter of hours, and in an attempt to encourage developers to contribute to the platform, added compatible Android apps without developer approval.[14]
Developers
[edit]An SDK was available for the platform, and included an emulator based on the Android emulator. Nokia discouraged developers from using Windows Phone design patterns and encouraged the use of Android design guidelines on the Nokia X.[15] Nokia's VP of developer relations commented that the Nokia imaging SDK would likely be ported to the platform from Windows Phone.[16]
Version history
[edit]| Version | Release date | Based on AOSP (Android) version | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | 24 February 2013 | API Level 16 (4.1.2 Jelly Bean) |
|
| 1.1.1 | 25 March 2013 | API Level 16 (4.1.2 Jelly Bean) |
|
| 1.1.2.2 | 10 May 2013 | API Level 16 (4.1.2 Jelly Bean) |
|
| 1.2.4.1/1.2.4.21 | 28 July 2013 | API Level 16 (4.1.2 Jelly Bean) |
|
| 2.0 | 24 June 2014 | API Level 18 (4.3 Jelly Bean) |
|
| 2.1 | 3 September 2014 | API Level 18 (4.3 Jelly Bean) |
|
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Android Code Analysis". Archived from the original on 14 September 2013. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
- ^ "Philosophy and Goals". Android Open Source Project. Google. Archived from the original on 17 October 2014. Retrieved 21 April 2012.
- ^ "Google's iron grip on Android: Controlling open source by any means necessary". Ars Technica. Retrieved 8 December 2013.
- ^ "libc - platform/bionic - Git at Google". android.googlesource.com.
- ^ "master - platform/external/mksh - Git at Google". android.googlesource.com.
- ^ "toolbox - platform/system/core - Git at Google". android.googlesource.com.
- ^ "Licenses". Android Open Source Project. Open Handset Alliance. Retrieved 9 September 2012.
The preferred license for the Android Open Source Project is the Apache Software License, 2.0. ... Why Apache Software License? ... For userspace (that is, non-kernel) software, we do in fact prefer ASL2.0 (and similar licenses like BSD, MIT, etc.) over other licenses such as LGPL. Android is about freedom and choice. The purpose of Android is promote openness in the mobile world, but we don't believe it's possible to predict or dictate all the uses to which people will want to put our software. So, while we encourage everyone to make devices that are open and modifiable, we don't believe it is our place to force them to do so. Using LGPL libraries would often force them to do so.
- ^ "Microsoft kills off its Nokia Android phones". The Verge. 8 April 2014.
- ^ "Microsoft Lumia 435 Dual SIM - Smartphones - Microsoft - India". www.microsoft.com. Archived from the original on 21 January 2015.
- ^ Gartenberg, Chaim (2 October 2019). "Microsoft surprises with new foldable Surface Duo phone running Android". The Verge.
- ^ "Nokia X Platform Overview | Nokia Developer". Archived from the original on 25 June 2014. Retrieved 25 June 2014.
- ^ Foley, Mary Jo (24 February 2014). "Why Microsoft may keep, not kill, Nokia's new Android phones". zdnet. Retrieved 5 March 2014.
- ^ Chowdhury, Kamal (15 August 2014). "Update: "Nokia X2 Tools" allows Nokia X2 to install Google Play Store & Google services". Nokia PowerUser.
- ^ Holly, Russell (13 May 2014). "Nokia is loading Android apps into its store without developer approval". Geek.com. Archived from the original on 3 September 2015. Retrieved 12 February 2015.
- ^ "UX checklist - Nokia X Design Guidelines". Archived from the original on 4 July 2014. Retrieved 25 June 2014.
- ^ "Nokia: Imaging SDK set for Android Nokia X Platform- The Inquirer". 4 March 2014. Archived from the original on 4 March 2014. Retrieved 8 July 2021.
- ^ Turner, Debbie (25 March 2014). "Nokia X update brings improvements already". PhonesReviews UK- Mobiles, Apps, Networks, Software, Tablet etc.
- ^ "Nokia X 1.1.2.2 software update now rolling out". GSMArena.com.
- ^ "Announcement of software update v. 1.2.4.1/1.2.4.21". Archived from the original on 14 April 2015. Retrieved 9 August 2014.
Nokia X platform
View on GrokipediaLaunch and Initial Features
Announcement
The Nokia X platform was officially announced on February 24, 2014, during a press event at the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, marking Nokia's entry into the Android ecosystem with a customized software layer.[4][5] The reveal highlighted the platform's design as a bridge between Android's app ecosystem and Nokia's services, unveiled alongside three initial devices: the entry-level Nokia X, the upgraded Nokia X+, and the larger Nokia XL. These handsets featured a forked version of Android without Google services, emphasizing affordability and integration with Microsoft apps like Skype and OneDrive. Pricing was positioned to target emerging markets, with the Nokia X starting at €89 (excluding taxes and subsidies), the Nokia X+ at €99, and the Nokia XL at €109, aiming to undercut competitors like the Moto G.[4][5] Availability was set for the second quarter of 2014, beginning with immediate rollout in select regions and expanding to over 15 markets, including key growth areas like India and China. Nokia marketed the platform as "Android different," promoting its independence from Google dependencies while incorporating a user interface inspired by Windows Phone aesthetics, such as the tile-based Fastlane for notifications and multitasking. Initial reception underscored strong demand in Asia, particularly in China, where reports indicated over 1 million pre-registrations within the first four days, contributing to rapid sell-outs of initial batches upon release.[6] This enthusiasm highlighted the platform's appeal in price-sensitive markets, positioning it as a strategic move to capture the "next billion" smartphone users amid Nokia's transition toward Microsoft integration.[7]Core Innovations
The Nokia X platform introduced the Fastlane notification system, a swipe-left interface that provided users with a centralized timeline for recent apps, social feeds, notifications, and ongoing activities, allowing quick access without navigating multiple screens. This feature, adapted from Nokia's earlier Asha platform but echoing elements of Windows Phone's live tile multitasking, enabled users to swipe through a chronological feed of events, such as incoming messages or app updates, while supporting customization to block specific apps or notifications for a less cluttered experience.[8][9][10] Complementing this, the platform featured the Nokia Camera app integrated with the Glance screen, which displayed essential information like time, battery status, and upcoming calendar events on the lock screen for at-a-glance access, even when the device was idle. The Nokia Camera app emphasized simple, point-and-shoot functionality tailored to the device's camera hardware (3 MP fixed-focus on the Nokia X and X+, 5 MP autofocus on the Nokia XL), supporting basic modes like auto-capture and video recording at 480p (864x480) resolution at 30 fps, while the Glance screen extended quick access to recent photos and widgets directly from the lock interface, reducing the need to unlock the device for routine checks. This design prioritized usability on entry-level hardware, drawing from Nokia's Lumia heritage to enhance everyday interactions.[1][11][12][13][14] A key differentiator was the hybrid app bridging mechanism, which utilized a compatibility layer based on Android Open Source Project (AOSP) to run unmodified Android apps, with Nokia reporting a 75% compatibility rate at launch for apps not reliant on Google Mobile Services. This layer allowed sideloading or installation from the Nokia Store without full Google integration, enabling access to a broad ecosystem while maintaining a customized interface.[15][2][16] The platform emphasized offline-first capabilities, particularly through Nokia services like HERE Maps, which supported downloadable maps for turn-by-turn navigation without an internet connection, making it suitable for low-connectivity regions in emerging markets. This focus addressed challenges in areas with unreliable data access, allowing core functions such as location-based services to operate independently.[17][18][2] For security, the Nokia X platform excluded Google Play access by default, relying instead on the curated Nokia Store to mitigate malware risks from unvetted third-party sources, a deliberate choice tailored for emerging markets where pirated or sideloaded apps posed higher threats. This approach aimed to foster a safer app environment by limiting exposure to the broader Android malware landscape, though users could still sideload APKs if desired.[19][20][21]Software Architecture
Operating System Base
The Nokia X platform was built as a fork of the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), initially utilizing Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean as its foundational operating system for the launch devices in early 2014.[19][22] This base allowed Nokia to leverage the stability and app ecosystem of Android while customizing it to align with the company's services and design philosophy, without incorporating proprietary Google components.[1] Subsequent development led to an upgrade in the Nokia X Software Platform 2.0, which shifted to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, introduced alongside the Nokia X2 device in mid-2014.[23] This version maintained backward compatibility with the initial fork but incorporated refinements for improved performance and integration with emerging Microsoft services following Nokia's acquisition.[23] The platform's reliance on these older Android iterations stemmed from hardware constraints in the entry-level devices, limiting further advancements.[1] At its core, the Nokia X platform employed a custom-modified Linux kernel, optimized for the Qualcomm Snapdragon processors in the supported hardware and licensed under the GNU General Public License version 2 (GPL v2). These modifications focused on hardware-specific optimizations, such as enhanced power management and sensor integration, while adhering to AOSP guidelines to ensure stability.[24] The kernel retained the open-source nature of Linux, enabling potential community contributions, though Nokia's proprietary layers above it restricted full openness. The platform supported Android application compatibility up to API level 18, corresponding to Android 4.3, allowing sideloaded apps to run without major issues on the unmodified Dalvik runtime.[23] This level of API support ensured that a wide range of third-party Android applications could execute natively, as the Dalvik virtual machine handled bytecode execution in its standard form without alterations from the AOSP baseline.[23] Developers targeting the platform could thus use familiar Android tools, though testing was recommended due to the absence of Google-specific APIs.[1] Notably, the Nokia X platform excluded all Google Mobile Services (GMS) frameworks, such as Google Play Services, to avoid dependency on Google's ecosystem and comply with licensing restrictions in certain markets.[12] In their place, Nokia implemented proprietary alternatives, including HERE for location and mapping services, MixRadio for music streaming, and later integrations with Microsoft services like OneDrive for cloud storage.[12][25] These substitutions maintained core functionalities like geolocation and media playback while promoting Nokia's and Microsoft's app portfolio.[12] Over-the-air (OTA) updates were provided for the platform, but limited to two major versions—1.x and 2.x—due to the short lifespan of the initiative following Microsoft's full acquisition of Nokia's devices business in 2014.[26] Initial devices received incremental OTA patches for stability and minor features up to version 1.2, while the 2.0 update was restricted to newer hardware like the X2, reflecting the platform's transitional role before discontinuation.[26][27] This constrained update cycle underscored the platform's experimental nature, prioritizing rapid market entry over long-term support.[26]User Interface
The Nokia X platform featured a user interface heavily inspired by Windows Phone, centered around a tile-based home screen that displayed app icons and notifications in a customizable grid. Users could resize tiles to medium or large formats and arrange them across up to three or four columns depending on the device model, providing a visually organized starting point for accessing applications and system information. While the design incorporated live tiles for dynamic updates—such as the gallery app showing recent photos when enlarged—it lacked the full real-time interactivity of Windows Phone's implementation, opting instead for static representations of app content to maintain performance on entry-level hardware.[19][12][28] Navigation in the Nokia X UI relied on gesture-based interactions to promote intuitive use, with swiping left or right from the home screen summoning Fastlane, a dedicated app switcher and notification stream borrowed from Nokia's Asha platform. Fastlane aggregated recent activities, missed calls, messages, and upcoming calendar events in a chronological timeline, allowing users to tap items to resume tasks or swipe up/down to scroll through history and future reminders; tapping the back button also accessed this view for quick multitasking. Additional gestures included swiping down from the top edge to reveal a search bar or quick-settings panel for toggles like Wi-Fi and brightness, and swiping up within apps for context-specific menus, all supported by a single capacitive back button that doubled as a home return when held. In software version 2.0, a dedicated home key was introduced alongside the back button, further simplifying navigation by enabling direct access to the task manager for closing apps.[29][12][19][28] Customization options emphasized personalization within constraints, including support for home screen widgets from compatible apps and the ability to create folders by long-pressing and dragging tiles together. Users could adjust tile colors and themes through system settings, though these were more limited than in stock Android, lacking deep theming or extensive widget variety to align with the platform's lightweight focus. Fastlane itself offered filtering for notifications—such as enabling alerts from specific apps like BBM while disabling others like the browser—allowing tailored visibility of recent interactions. Alternative launchers could be sideloaded to replace the default UI entirely, providing flexibility for advanced users.[12][29][18] From Nokia X software platform version 2.0 onward, the UI integrated Microsoft services seamlessly, embedding apps like Skype, Outlook, and OneDrive directly into the tile layout and Fastlane for quick access, with Bing serving as the default search provider in place of Google services. These integrations appeared as native tiles and notifications, facilitating email previews, cloud file access, and video calls without requiring separate app launches, though users could opt out via settings. This approach prioritized Microsoft's ecosystem to differentiate the platform from pure Android devices.[28][12] Accessibility features in the Nokia X UI were geared toward first-time smartphone users, particularly in emerging markets, through a simplified and intuitive design that bridged feature phones and full smartphones. Elements like the Glance screen—displaying time, date, and basic notifications on the lock screen—and double-tap-to-wake functionality reduced interaction complexity, while gesture-based navigation and minimal button reliance made it approachable for beginners transitioning from basic devices. The overall interface avoided overwhelming options, focusing on core tasks to ease adoption among users new to touchscreens.[30][18][12]Ecosystem and Applications
App Compatibility and Store
The Nokia X platform relied on the proprietary Nokia X Store for app distribution, which launched alongside the devices in 2014 with hundreds of pre-optimized apps from Nokia and its partners, prioritizing curated content like productivity tools, entertainment, and utilities to populate the ecosystem quickly.[31] This store drew from Nokia's existing catalog while incorporating Android-compatible titles, offering users a centralized hub without direct access to broader marketplaces.[15] Built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) version 4.1.2, the platform provided native compatibility for Android applications through APK sideloading, allowing users to install apps via file transfer from a computer or microSD card without needing an official storefront like Google Play.[16] Nokia reported that approximately 75% of Android apps ran without modifications, thanks to the unmodified Dalvik runtime and API level 16 support, though apps relying on Google Mobile Services often required workarounds.[15] Users increasingly turned to third-party hacks for fuller functionality.[32][33] These methods typically involved rooting the device via tools like the Nokia X Toolkit and employing frameworks such as Xposed to install Google Play Services, enabling the Play Store and push notifications, but they carried risks of bootloops, warranty voidance, and overall instability. The platform incorporated bridging features to connect with Microsoft's Windows ecosystem, including the "App Folders" functionality that organized apps into resizable groups on the home screen, mirroring Windows Phone's tile-based layout for a unified user experience across devices.[34] This design choice facilitated conceptual alignment rather than direct app syncing, supplemented by deep integration with Microsoft services for data continuity. Content partnerships underscored the ecosystem's hybrid nature, with pre-installed apps from Microsoft—such as Outlook for email and Skype for communication—and Nokia's own offerings like MixRadio for streaming music and HERE for mapping and navigation, providing immediate value without additional downloads.[35] These selections highlighted collaborative efforts to blend Android compatibility with Windows-centric productivity, ensuring essential services were available out of the box.Developer Tools
The Nokia X Software Development Kit (SDK) was released on February 24, 2014, alongside the platform's announcement, providing developers with tools to build and test applications using existing Android development environments.[36] It included an Android-compatible emulator for simulation and debugging capabilities integrated with Eclipse and Android Studio, allowing seamless use of standard Android workflows without requiring new learning curves.[37] These features enabled developers to compile, debug, and deploy apps directly to Nokia X devices via USB or over-the-air methods, leveraging the platform's AOSP-based foundation.[38] Design guidelines for the Nokia X platform emphasized adherence to Android best practices to ensure optimal performance and user experience, while incorporating Nokia-specific APIs for enhanced functionality.[36] Developers were encouraged to utilize the HERE API for location-based services, enabling integration of mapping and navigation features tailored to Nokia X devices.[39] Similarly, APIs for MixRadio allowed apps to access curated music streaming and playback, promoting native-like experiences without deep platform modifications.[40] The porting process for Android apps to Nokia X was streamlined through dedicated tools in the SDK, which facilitated conversion with minimal code changes for most applications.[15] Nokia reported that approximately 75% of tested Android apps ran without any recoding, thanks to the platform's compatibility with AOSP version 4.1.2, while the remaining required adjustments primarily for Google-specific services replaced by Nokia equivalents.[41] Support for the developer community was centered on the developer.nokia.com portal, which hosted comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and downloads for the Nokia X SDK.[37] Online forums provided spaces for troubleshooting and knowledge sharing, supplemented by beta programs that granted early access to platform updates and device prototypes for select developers.[36] Monetization opportunities were facilitated through the Nokia X Store, offering a revenue-sharing model similar to Android's, with developers receiving 70% of in-app purchase and paid app revenues after Nokia's 30% cut.[40] This structure was enhanced by Nokia's operator billing integrations across over 160 carriers in 60 markets, enabling higher conversion rates for paid content.[42]Hardware Implementation
Device Models
The Nokia X platform debuted with four smartphone models in 2014, all positioned as budget devices targeting emerging markets. These included the base Nokia X, its upgraded version the Nokia X+, the larger Nokia XL, and the follow-up Nokia X2. All models ran on the Nokia X software platform, a customized fork of Android without Google services.[13][43] The Nokia X (RM-980), introduced as the entry-level model, featured a 4-inch IPS display with 800 x 480 resolution and served as the foundation for the lineup. It was launched in March 2014, shortly after its announcement at Mobile World Congress in February.[13][44] The Nokia X+ offered an upgraded 768 MB RAM compared to the base model's 512 MB, while retaining the same 4-inch display and overall design. It was launched in May 2014, providing improved multitasking for users in price-sensitive segments.[45][43] The Nokia XL (RM-1040) expanded the lineup with a larger 5-inch IPS display and included a front-facing camera for selfies and video calls, differentiating it from the smaller X models. It was launched in May 2014, emphasizing phablet-like usability at an affordable price point.[14][46] The Nokia X2 (RM-1013) succeeded the initial trio as an updated dual-SIM model, incorporating a Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 processor for better performance over the original Snapdragon S4 Play. It was updated and launched in June 2014, marking the final addition to the series.[47][48] All models were manufactured in facilities in Vietnam and China, leveraging Nokia's established production hubs in Asia to meet demand for low-cost devices. No further models were released after the X2, as the platform faced impending discontinuation following Microsoft's acquisition of Nokia's mobile division.[49][3] The devices were primarily distributed in Asia and Europe, with sales focused on emerging markets through carrier partnerships such as Telefónica to broaden accessibility.[50][51]| Model | Codename | Key Display Feature | Launch Month | Processor Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nokia X | RM-980 | 4-inch | March 2014 | Base model |
| Nokia X+ | RM-1010 | 4-inch | May 2014 | 768 MB RAM upgrade |
| Nokia XL | RM-1040 | 5-inch with front camera | May 2014 | Larger form factor |
| Nokia X2 | RM-1013 | 4.3-inch | June 2014 | Snapdragon 200, dual-SIM |
Specifications
The Nokia X platform devices were equipped with entry-level hardware optimized for cost-effective performance in emerging markets, utilizing Qualcomm Snapdragon processors to support the lightweight Android fork while maintaining compatibility with 3G networks. All models shared a polycarbonate unibody construction, providing durability and a colorful, interchangeable back panel design reminiscent of Nokia's Lumia series.[52][53]| Component | Nokia X | Nokia X+ | Nokia XL | Nokia X2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Play (MSM8225), dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A5, Adreno 203 GPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Play (MSM8225), dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A5, Adreno 203 GPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Play (MSM8225), dual-core 1.0 GHz Cortex-A5, Adreno 203 GPU | Qualcomm Snapdragon 200, quad-core 1.2 GHz Cortex-A7, Adreno 302 GPU |
| RAM | 512 MB | 768 MB | 768 MB | 1 GB |
| Display | 4.0-inch IPS LCD, 480 x 800 pixels (233 ppi) | 4.0-inch IPS LCD, 480 x 800 pixels (233 ppi) | 5.0-inch IPS LCD, 480 x 800 pixels (187 ppi) | 4.3-inch IPS LCD, 480 x 800 pixels (217 ppi) |
| Build | Polycarbonate unibody, 128.7 g, 10.4 mm thick | Polycarbonate unibody, 128.7 g, 10.4 mm thick | Polycarbonate unibody, 190 g, 10.9 mm thick | Polycarbonate unibody, 150 g, 9.7 mm thick |
| Camera | 3 MP rear (no autofocus), LED flash, 480p video | 3 MP rear (no autofocus), LED flash, 480p video | 5 MP rear (autofocus), 2 MP front, LED flash, 480p video | 5 MP rear (no autofocus), 2 MP front, LED flash, 720p video |
| Battery | 1500 mAh Li-Ion, removable | 1500 mAh Li-Ion, removable | 2000 mAh Li-Ion, removable | 1800 mAh Li-Ion, removable |
| Storage | 4 GB internal + microSD (up to 32 GB) | 4 GB internal + microSD (up to 32 GB) | 4 GB internal + microSD (up to 32 GB) | 4 GB internal + microSD (up to 32 GB) |
| Connectivity | 3G HSPA (21.1/5.76 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, FM radio, no LTE/NFC | 3G HSPA (21.1/5.76 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, FM radio, no LTE/NFC | 3G HSPA (21.1/5.76 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, FM radio, no LTE/NFC | 3G HSPA (21.1/5.76 Mbps), Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, microUSB 2.0, FM radio, no LTE/NFC |
