Nokia's feature phone doubles as a portable charger
Nokia's new 300 Charge is a basic phone with a 3,700mAh battery that can reverse-charge other devices at 10W via a bundled multi-adapter cable. It also includes a bright LED flashlight and a rugged, textured design. The phone is expected to cost under $50 if it reaches the US.
The 300 Charge's 3,700mAh cell is substantial for a feature phone, enabling roughly 37 hours of talk time or 40 days on standby. Its 10W reverse-charging output, while modest compared to dedicated powerbanks, is enough to top off a smartphone in an emergency. The bundled 4-in-1 cable with Micro USB, USB-C, and USB-A adapters adds practical versatility.
Internally, the phone runs on a Unisoc SC6531E chipset with 4GB of RAM and 4GB of storage, paired with a 2.4-inch QVGA display and a basic camera. The textured rear and side grips support its rugged positioning, while the 3.5mm headphone jack remains a rarity among modern devices. A US launch is unconfirmed, but the expected sub-$50 price point positions it as an affordable utility device.
This device could appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, emergency-preparedness buyers, or travelers seeking a backup phone that also serves as a charging source. By combining basic communication with powerbank functionality at a low price, it may reduce reliance on carrying separate gadgets. However, its limited charging speed and modest battery capacity mean it likely won't replace dedicated powerbanks for heavy users, and its impact may remain niche rather than transformative.