Nokia bolsters its Windows Phone line-up with another midrange model

Some mobile companies only release one or two phones per year, but others – like Nokia – go for more, and now we’re seeing the company add yet another to its Windows Phones, bringing some reasonable specs with what’s expected to be a reasonable price tag.

We’ve lost count as to how many Nokia will have out here running the Windows Phone 8 operating system – four, maybe? – but the next to make its way to Australians will be the Lumia 720, a mid-range model that packs in a design that blends the style of the high-end 920 and the smaller softer casing of the 820, while aiming not to compromise on performance inside.

“With smartphone adoption continuing to grow in Australia, consumers want more choice at different price-points,” said Nokia Australia’s Managing Director, Steve Lewis.

“Smartphones like the Lumia 720 are critical to Nokia’s strategy as they allow us to bring familiar features such as high-end design, quality hardware, unparalleled imaging capabilities and a rich navigation experience to a wider audience.”

On the hardware front, Nokia has packed in a 1GHz dual-core processor running alongside 512MB RAM, 8GB storage, a microSD card slot, Bluetooth, WiFi, GPS, NFC, and a 2000mAh battery, partnering these specs with a 4.3 inch LCD with second-generation scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass technology.

Nokia’s emphasis on high-quality cameras looks to be continued here, with a 6.7 megapixel rear camera with Carl Zeiss lens and the ability to shoot at F/1.9, one of the lowest apertures we’ve seen yet on a phone camera.

Also left in is the wireless charging system, a feature that was removed from the recently reviewed Lumia 620 and supported by Nokia’s range of wireless devices, including a plush charging cushion and speakers with wireless charging built in.

Pricing is being called at $429 outright, though two telcos have been highlighted already, with Virgin Mobile receiving the handset from April 4 and Vodafone receiving stock later on.