Windows Phone makes a surprising comeback… but in a very different way.

Windows Phone – Microsoft's failed attempt at the smartphone market – has been dead for quite some time. Windows 10 Mobile was officially discontinued in 2019, taking the Windows Phone Store with it. Occasionally, unofficial concept videos still appear online, evoking memories of a bygone era, but they remain largely nostalgic. However, that may soon change, as Windows Phone is preparing for a comeback. Even so, this return is only… partially true.

A company called Nex Computing is developing the NexPhone, a smartphone that runs Android by default, can open Debian Linux as an application with GPU acceleration, and supports dual-booting to run full Windows 11. Not only does it offer 'stock' Windows 11, Nex Computing has also designed a customized, mobile-friendly interface that strongly resembles the style of the old Windows Phone, with its characteristic tile layout and large icons.

The NexPhone can also connect to a PC via the NexDock – an accessory that Nex Computing has been developing and refining over the years, even since Microsoft introduced Continuum. In terms of specifications, the device uses the Qualcomm QCM6490 platform, comes with 12GB of RAM, 256GB of internal storage, a 6.58-inch 120Hz display, a 64MP main camera using a Sony IMX787 sensor, and supports 5G and wireless charging.

Despite considerable skepticism about Nex Computing's capabilities in this area, the NexPhone is not yet "vaporware." The company has showcased physical prototypes to several media outlets and plans a commercial release in Q3 2026. The announced price is $549, excluding taxes and shipping, and includes a free USB-C hub. Users can pre-order with a refundable $199 deposit and receive priority for early delivery.

The NexPhone is designed for durability and robustness, because according to Nex Computing, most NexDock customers consider durability to be the most important factor, especially since the device also acts as a 'PC companion'. The startup is also quite frank in admitting that they cannot access the newest and most high-end hardware due to small-scale production and high costs. Therefore, the company chose a balanced configuration on the Qualcomm platform to ensure long-term support.

According to the CEO, NexPhone is the result of 14 years of development and is not intended to replace a user's primary high-end smartphone. Instead, it is a durable, secondary device that can quickly transform into a 'true PC' when needed.

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