From Torchlight Phones to Touchscreens
If you grew up in Nigeria during the early 2000s, you probably owned a Nokia 3310, played Snake Xenzia until your thumbs hurt, or proudly showed off a Motorola Razr. Back then, phones had incredible battery life, built-in radios, and of course, the iconic torchlight feature. They could survive falls from a storey building and still work perfectly.
Fast forward to today — many of those old-school brands are back, now producing Android smartphones with high-resolution cameras, face unlock, and fast processors. Let’s explore the top five phone brands that leapt from simple feature phones to full-fledged Android devices.
1. Nokia – From Snake to Snapdragon
Then:
Nokia was the king of durability and long-lasting batteries. Models like the Nokia 1100, 3310, and E63 were everywhere in Nigeria.
Now:
After a brief decline during the smartphone boom, Nokia returned under HMD Global with sleek Android devices like:
- Nokia C32 – 5000 mAh battery, 50MP camera, clean Android interface. (₦327,500 | Shop Kultra)
- Nokia G60 5G – 120Hz refresh rate, 5G-ready, eco-friendly build.
Why It’s Loved:
Nokia still delivers reliable performance with frequent software updates — perfect for Nigerians who value security and durability.
2. Motorola – The Flip Phone Legend Returns
Then:
The Motorola Razr V3 and C139 were the definition of “cool.” Stylish designs and strong audio made them stand out.
Now:
Motorola re-emerged with smartphones like:
- Motorola Edge series – Sleek display, 5G support, and premium build.
- Motorola Razr (2024) – Modern foldable smartphone with Android features.
Why It’s Loved:
Motorola combines nostalgia with cutting-edge design, appealing to both tech lovers and retro fans.
3. BlackBerry – The Productivity Icon
Then:
BlackBerry was the go-to brand for professionals, with QWERTY keyboards and BBM messaging.
Now:
Though BlackBerry has exited the market, its legacy lives on in devices like the BlackBerry Priv, which offered:
- Touchscreen + physical keyboard.
- Advanced security features.
- 3410 mAh battery for long usage. (~$299 | Shop Amazon)
Why It’s Remembered:
BlackBerry phones symbolised status, privacy, and productivity in Nigeria’s mobile history.
4. Itel – From Battery King to Budget Smartphone Hero
Then:
Itel became popular for dual SIM phones with massive batteries, perfect for areas with unreliable electricity.
Now:
Itel dominates the budget Android market with models like:
- Itel S23 – 90Hz display, 50MP main camera, stylish gradient finish. (₦184,000 | Shop Spop)
Why It’s Loved:
Itel offers affordable smartphones with the perfect blend of style, camera quality, and essential features.
5. Tecno – From Basic Calls to Bold Cameras
Then:
Tecno started as a brand for basic calls and texts, with long battery life and sturdy builds.
Now:
Tecno has transformed into a smartphone powerhouse with models like:
- Tecno Camon 20 – 64MP triple camera, AMOLED display, fast charging.
- Tecno Phantom X2 – Flagship-level performance with premium design.
Why It’s Loved:
Tecno strikes a balance between performance and affordability, dominating across the African markets
Conclusion: The Evolution Continues
From torchlight phones to touchscreen powerhouses, these brands have proven they can adapt and thrive in the fast-changing mobile industry. Whether you value nostalgia, durability, or advanced features, there’s an Android smartphone today that connects the past with the present.
