After spending multiple device development cycles focusing on low-end and mid-range device sales in order to shore up marketshare in developing markets, the former Nokia handset division now integrated into Microsoft has apparently restarted development of high-end Lumia flagship devices. The new devices currently have codenames that pay homage to Nokia’s first two handsets in the Cityman and Talkman.
Both would feature Quad HD resolution displays, 3GB of RAM, 20-megapixel rear cameras, 5-megapixel front cameras and 32GB of internal storage with microSD slots. The Talkman is considered the smaller model with a 5.2-inch display and a six-core processor, while the Cityman would increase the display size to a 5.7-inch display and an eight-core processor.
Both are also said to feature unique three-tone camera flash assemblies and the Cityman would get additional accessories to make the most of Windows 10’s phone-as-PC feature code-named “Continuum” that will allow selected Windows Mobile 10 devices to turn into full-fledged PCs. With Windows Mobile 10 not slated for launch until well after the initial release cycle for Windows 10 this Summer, It’s unlikely that the above phones will appear before the end of the year.
Microsoft has not had a flagship high-end Windows Phone device since the “McLaren” flagship was in active development before being canceled in the middle of 2014. The last commercially released flagship was the Nokia Lumia Icon for Verizon Wireless, released in February of 2014 and the Lumia 930, released later that Summer outside of the US.
