Windows Phone is back from the dead... kind of

Windows Phone, Microsoft's failed venture into the smartphone space has been dead for quite a while now. Windows 10 Mobile was killed off in 2019 along with the Windows Phone Store, and while unofficial concept videos about what could have been grace our web browsing experience from time to time, what truly lingers is memories of a time long passed. That may soon be about to change as Windows phone is making a return. Well, kind of.

A company called Nex Computing is building the NexPhone, a smartphone that runs Android by default, can launch Debian Linux as an app with GPU acceleration, and can dual-boot into a full Windows 11 experience. And it's not just the stock Windows 11, Nex Computing has gone to the trouble of making a custom mobile-friendly UI that is very reminiscent of Windows Phone, complete with tiles and large icons, as can be seen below:

The versatile device can also be connected to a PC using the NexDock, which has been maturing over the past several years, even since Microsoft announced Continuum. Some of the pertinent specifications of the NexPhone are listed below:

• Qualcomm QCM6490
• 12GB RAM
• 256GB storage
• 6.58-inch 120Hz display
• 64MP main camera (Sony IMX787)
• 5G connectivity
• Support for wireless charging

You can check out the full specs here.

While many would be skeptical about Nex Computing prowess in this space, this does not appear to be vaporware for now. Physical prototypes have been shown to some media outlets, with commercial availability expected in Q3 2026. It's arguably not very expensive either, boasting a price tag of $549, plus applicable duties and shipping charges, along with a free USB-C hub. Reservations can be made for a refundable amount of $199, which will also get you the handset earlier than others.

The NexPhone has a rugged form factor because NexDock customers have been telling Nex Computing that durability is the factor that matters the most, especially when using your device as a PC companion too. The startup seems to be very honest about its efforts, noting that it could not source the latest and greatest hardware at small volumes, likely due to cost, which is why it opted for a balanced build on a Qualcomm platform for long-term support. The device has been 14 years in the making, with the CEO emphasizing that it's not meant to replace your flagship phone (if you have one), but as a secondary rugged phone that can turn into a "real PC" when needed.