Nuu recently got into the cell phone business, and they kicked in the door with a phone that kept features modest while offering one key selling feature: It’s unlocked out of the box.
After a month or so of trying the Nuu X1 out, it was clear the $249.99, SIM-free smartphone won’t challenge an iPhone 6 or Samsung Galaxy S6, but it’ll work well enough to handle SIMs for most services across the world. It’s to serve 10 U.S. serve providers, including AT&T, Net10 Wireless, Metro PCS, T-Mobile, Lyca Mobile, Straight Talk, h2o, Red Pocket Mobile, Cricket and Tracfone Wireless.
The Nuu X1 guarantees its functionality due to its Qualcomm Snapdragon 400 1.2 GHz Quad-Core CPU, an industry standard processor, and a standard 1 GB of RAM and 16 GB storage.
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In daily use, the Nuu X1 does all the essentials — from calls to email, web servicing and most Android apps. The Android 4.4 KitKat OS allows for most apps available via Google Play via the standard interface.
Buyers should prepare themselves for the reality that the Nuu X1 will not push the major brands aside in most uses. It’s a little slower and built a little flimsier than the bigger name brands, so — face to face — there’s no match. But, you’re buying the phone primarily for its unlocked status. For users who need to take their device with you across borders or overseas, the ability to swap out SIM cards on the fly with at least reliable service makes the Nuu X1 a viable option.
