NexPhone, the mobile phone that also wants to be your computer

The idea of ​​carrying in your pocket a device capable of functioning as Android mobile device, Windows PC, and Linux equipment It's been circulating in the tech world for years, but it had almost always remained as prototypes or very niche projects. With the NexPhone, that concept materializes into a commercial product that seeks its own niche in a market dominated by increasingly similar smartphones.

This terminal, developed by Nex Computer—the company known for NexDock lapdocks—, focuses on the convergence between phone and computer without being limited to a simple desktop mode. Its approach involves offering Android 16 as the main system, an integrated Debian Linux environment, and an alternative boot option for a full Windows 11, all in a ruggedized chassis designed to withstand intensive use.

The NexPhone is designed as an everyday smartphone, with its usual apps, notifications, and services, but with the ability to It transforms into a PC when connected to a monitor, keyboard, and mouse., in an experience similar to what Samsung DeX once proposed, although going a step further in the software aspect.

Behind this approach is the idea that many users still need a classic desktop environment to work, while on the go they prefer the immediacy of mobile. NexPhone attempts to bring both worlds together in a single deviceavoiding having to carry a laptop and phone separately.

A mobile phone with three faces: Android, Linux and Windows 11

The NexPhone's base is Android 16, which acts as the main operating systemFrom there, you manage mobile applications, calls, messages, and all the other standard functions of a modern smartphone. The goal is for it to behave like a mid-range Android in everyday use, offering the most standard experience possible.

It is integrated on top of that Android. Linux Debian as an additional environmentaccessible as if it were an advanced application. This layer is designed for tasks more typical of desktop or technical use, such as working with the terminal, development tools, or professional applications that are not usually available as mobile apps.

The third pillar of the device is the possibility of boot a full version of Windows 11 through a dual-boot system. This isn't emulation or a stripped-down version; it's booting the phone directly into Microsoft's operating system, similar to a PC with multiple operating systems installed, and allows you to take advantage of continuity features such as continue what you were doing on your mobile.

To make Windows 11 usable on a 6,58-inch screen, Nex Computer has developed a Touch interface inspired by Windows Phone tilesThat layer acts as a kind of mobile "shell" over Windows on ARMallowing for more comfortable use with the fingers when the NexPhone is not connected to a monitor.

However, the true meaning of this Windows mode appears when the terminal is connected to an external screen: in that scenario, the NexPhone It behaves like a complete desktop computerwith access to Windows applications, legacy tools, and traditional productivity software. Furthermore, it is possible Configure automatic locking in Windows 11 to improve safety when used as primary equipment.

Desktop connectivity: from DisplayLink to direct USB-C

One of the key elements of this proposal is how the device integrates with monitors and workstations. In initial demonstrations, the NexPhone has been shown connected to external displays using DisplayLink technology, which allows you to output video via USB with the help of specific drivers.

According to information provided by the company, the goal is that, in the medium term, the phone will be able to offer direct video output via USB-Cwithout relying on that additional software layer. This would provide a simpler experience, closer to what some Android phones with integrated desktop modes already offer.

DisplayLink is a well-known and functional solution, but it relies on a set of drivers that can be affected by system updates. That's why Nex Computer wants evolve towards a standard USB-C outputThis is especially relevant if the NexPhone is used as the main device in professional or teleworking environments.

In these desktop scenarios, the device is designed to integrate with both USB-C docks and multiport hubs as with Nex Computer's own lapdocks, which turn the mobile phone into something very similar to a traditional laptop by adding a keyboard, trackpad and additional battery.

The Qualcomm QCM6490 processor as a strategic component

For a phone to natively run Android, Linux, and Windows 11, the choice of chip is crucial. NexPhone uses a Qualcomm QCM6490, a SoC originally geared towards industrial and IoT uses, which is in the mid-range in terms of raw performance.

This QCM6490 is a variant of the well-known 2021 Snapdragon 778G/780Gwith a CPU that combines Cortex-A78 and Cortex-A55 cores and an Adreno 643 GPU. It's not the most cutting-edge processor on the market, but its greatest strength lies not so much in its power as in its long-term support and compatibility with multiple operating systems.

Qualcomm has certified this platform with extended update support until 2036This is unusual for consumer chips. Furthermore, Microsoft lists it as an officially compatible option for Windows 11 and Windows 11 IoT Enterprise on ARM architecturewhich simplifies the whole driver and stability aspect.

This strategy allows Nex Computer to break away from the typical Android high-end renewal cycle and focus on the reliability of the Android + Linux + Windows suiteThe trade-off is clear: in demanding tasks, such as advanced video editing or demanding games on Windows, the performance will be more limited than that of a dedicated laptop.

Even so, for more common uses—web browsing, office applications, email, remote administration tools, or lightweight development—the QCM6490 should offer Sufficient performance, with the added advantage of low energy consumption compared to traditional x86 platforms.

Specifications: screen, memory and battery life

From a purely technical standpoint, the NexPhone falls into what we might consider an enhanced mid-range category. The device incorporates a 6,58-inch IPS LCD screen with Full HD+ resolution (2.403 x 1.080 pixels) and a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz.

The memory section is well-equipped for a device of this type: the terminal includes 12 GB of RAM and 256 GB of internal storageThese figures align with what we might expect from a basic laptop. Furthermore, it features microSD card slot, with official support for expansions up to 512 GB.

Regarding battery life, the NexPhone integrates a 5.000 mAh battery with 18W fast charging and compatibility with wireless chargingOn paper, these specifications are adequate for a standard mobile phone, although consumption will increase when the device is used for extended periods as a desktop PC.

Connectivity is on par with what is expected in 2026: the QCM6490 includes 5G modem with download speeds of up to 3,7 Gbit/s, upload support up to 2,5 Gbit/s and compatibility with Wi-Fi 6EThis facilitates fast connections on home and corporate networks.

In the photographic field, NexPhone assembles a 64MP main camera with Sony IMX787 sensorIt features a 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens. For selfies and video calls, it has a 10MP front-facing sensor. It doesn't aim to compete with flagship phones in mobile photography, but it offers a well-balanced set of features for a device of this type.

Rugged design and durability built for everyday use

One of the distinguishing aspects of the NexPhone compared to other convergence projects is its commitment to a distinctly robust design. The device comes with ruggedized finish, rubber protector and IP68 and IP69 certificationswhich implies advanced resistance to water, dust and shocks.

These certifications are in addition to compliance with the military standard. MIL-STD-810HThis is common in rugged phones and professional equipment. In practice, this means the device is designed to withstand drops, vibrations, and harsher environmental conditions than a conventional smartphone.

This design comes at a cost in ergonomics: the NexPhone It weighs over 250 grams and is around 13 mm thick.This figure is clearly above that of most consumer mobile phones. The color chosen for its launch is a sober dark gray, with a polycarbonate finish featuring a non-slip texture.

Nex Computer's premise is that if your phone is also going to be your PC, It had better withstand heavy use., the constant connections and disconnections to docks and monitors and the daily transport in backpacks or bags along with other devices.

Overall, the design is aimed more at a professional, technical, or enthusiast audience than at someone looking for a sleek and eye-catching phone. The focus here is on the functionality, durability, and the feel of a work tool more than in shop window design.

Windows Phone nostalgia and enthusiastic spirit

Beyond the specifications, the NexPhone strikes a nostalgic chord with some members of the tech community. Its Windows 11 interface It brings back the grid aesthetic of the old Windows Phones., a mobile operating system that Microsoft discontinued years ago, but which left a loyal group of followers.

In Windows mobile mode, Nex Computer uses Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) to recreate a touch app experienceTaking advantage of the fact that official Android app support on Windows ended in 2025, this solution allows you to launch websites as if they were small, lightweight applications that start up quickly and close without leaving any additional processes.

The proposal is somewhat reminiscent of previous experiments like the PinePhone or Librem devices, or even milestones like the celebrated HTC HD2, capable of running a huge range of operating systems thanks to the work of the community. NexPhone It translates that spirit of experimentation into a commercial product with official support..

However, the company itself acknowledges that executing Full Windows 11 on a mid-range chip This will involve compromises in fluidity and performance when basic tasks are exceeded. It remains to be seen how it will perform in practice with long work sessions, intensive multitasking, or demanding applications.

This type of experience will be especially relevant for a European audience accustomed to combining hybrid work environments, teleworking and mobilitywhere a single device capable of covering multiple roles might make more sense than in other markets.

Price, reservations and launch date

In the commercial arena, Nex Computer positions the NexPhone in the mid-range. The device will launch with a official price of $549which at the current exchange rate is around 460-480 euros, pending the final retail price for Europe and the possible applicable taxes in each country.

The company has implemented a system of reservations through a refundable deposit of $199This payment allows you to secure a unit without committing to the final purchase, something common in projects that target an enthusiastic audience and want to gauge real interest before mass production.

The planned schedule places the arrival of the NexPhone to the market in the third quarter of 2026This timeframe should be used to refine the experience with different operating systems, improve integration with external monitors, and finalize distribution details in regions such as Spain and the rest of Europe.

Along with the device, the brand plans to offer accessories such as USB-C hubs and lapdocks that complete the desktop experience. Some packages have mentioned the inclusion of a 5-port hub with the phone itself, which reinforces the idea of ​​a product geared towards use with peripherals.

It remains to be seen how distribution will be structured in the European market, whether there will be local partners or whether sales will be centralized in the Nex Computer online store with international shipping, something relevant in terms of warranties, technical service and delivery times in Spain.

With all of the above, the NexPhone is shaping up to be a unique device that combines mid-range hardware, rugged design, and a very ambitious commitment to convergence between mobile and PC. It doesn't aim to compete in extreme photography or ultra-thin design, but rather to offer a specific niche of users a phone capable of running Android, Linux, and Windows 11 with long-term support, ready to become a primary device when connected to a monitor; a different approach that, if the technical execution is up to par, could gain a foothold among professionals and enthusiasts who value versatility more than pure performance figures.

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Alberto Navarro

I am a technology enthusiast who has turned his "geek" interests into a profession. I have spent more than 10 years of my life using cutting-edge technology and tinkering with all kinds of programs out of pure curiosity. Now I have specialized in computer technology and video games. This is because for more than 5 years I have been writing for various websites on technology and video games, creating articles that seek to give you the information you need in a language that is understandable to everyone.

If you have any questions, my knowledge ranges from everything related to the Windows operating system as well as Android for mobile phones. And my commitment is to you, I am always willing to spend a few minutes and help you resolve any questions you may have in this internet world.