The Nokia G42, announced by HMD Global under the Nokia brand, is designed with repairability in mind. The collaboration with iFixit centers on making common upgrades straightforward, as the company lists clear repair steps and commits to supplying original spare parts for five years. In practical terms, the display, battery, and USB-C port are among the components that can be swapped out with relative ease.
On the front, the G42 sports a 6.6-inch HD+ IPS panel with a 90 Hz refresh rate and Gorilla Glass 3 protection. Its display features a small V-shaped notch housing an 8 MP front camera, delivering a usable screen for media and daily tasks alike.
Performance is managed by an octa-core Snapdragon 480+ processor, paired with either 4 GB or 6 GB of RAM. The device includes 128 GB of built-in storage, expandable via a microSD card, ensuring room for apps, photos, and downloads. It ships with Android 13, offering a modern software baseline and access to the latest Google services.
The camera system consists of three modules. The main camera delivers 50 MP with an aperture of f/1.8 for better low-light performance, complemented by a 2 MP macro lens for close-up shots and a depth sensor that helps create more natural bokeh in portrait photography.
Powering the phone is a 5000 mAh battery, capable of fast charging up to 20 watts. The manufacturer notes that the battery retains about 80% of its capacity after roughly 800 full charge cycles, a point that should reassure buyers concerned about longevity and total cost of ownership.
In markets where pricing and availability are listed, the G42 has been positioned at a competitive level, with a European price around €250. While specific pricing and availability can vary by region, the device represents a value proposition for users who value serviceability and up-to-date software in a compact package. Prospective buyers in Canada and the United States may find it appealing for everyday tasks, mid-range gaming, and photography enthusiasts who appreciate a modular approach to maintenance and part replacement.
Industry observers noted early on that the Nokia G42 signals a shift toward more transparent repair ecosystems. This model aligns with growing consumer demand for longer-lasting devices and greater control over spare parts and service. As such, it stands alongside other mainstream smartphones that emphasize easy component swaps, lower total cost of ownership, and accessible maintenance options. The combination of a sturdy display, sizable battery life, and a practical camera setup makes the G42 a sensible option for users who want reliable performance without frequent upgrade cycles. In short, the Nokia G42 is not just another budget smartphone; it’s a thoughtful entry into a repair-friendly, user-centric segment of the market.
With its emphasis on repairability, balanced hardware, and straightforward software, the Nokia G42 appeals to buyers who value durability and practical upkeep as part of their daily technology decisions. The device demonstrates how manufacturers can pair price-conscious hardware with a support framework designed to extend the life of the handset, reduce waste, and keep essential components accessible for years to come. Consumers in North America evaluating mid-range options may find that the G42 ticks many of the right boxes for everyday use, photo-friendly capabilities, and easy maintenance.
As the market continues to evolve, the Nokia G42 stands as a reference point for how repairability, software longevity, and a clear spare-part strategy influence consumer choice and long-term ownership costs. This approach also aligns with the needs of repair professionals and enthusiasts who prefer hands-on maintenance over the rapid churn of current smartphones. In short, the Nokia G42 combines practical repairability with solid core features, delivering a compelling value proposition in today’s mid-range smartphone landscape.