Cricket launches Microsoft Lumia 650

Windows fans on mobile in the US looking for a more handsome budget handset than Microsoft’s past efforts now have another choice to turn to, as we just got wind of the release of the Lumia 650 on Cricket Wireless.

For those whose memory of the Lumia 650 has gotten a bit fuzzy, the phone is Microsoft’s latest attempt at providing a no-nonsense, business-focused experience on Windows 10 Mobile, albeit with some special touches in the design department. The output is one of the most attractive phones Redmond has produced in a while, with designs elements resembling iPhones, including the edge metal band, bipolar color scheme (back and white only) and the outrageous thinness and lightness.

Specs-wise the Lumia 650 is nothing to write home about, with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 212 and 1GB of RAM; in other words, almost the bare minimum for Windows 10 Mobile to work properly. Nevertheless, the 5-inch 720p AMOLED screen, 16GB of internal storage with microSD expansion, 8MP rear camera, 2000mAh battery, as well as it stunning design should make it a fantastic stylishly low-cost entry into the smartphone world, or as a great business phone. You can check out our review of the device, as well as various other related interesting tidbits for more info.

While Cricket Wireless will be joining B&H and Newegg, alongside Microsoft, as distributors of the Lumia 650, it is the only carrier in the U.S. to have the phone on offer as an exclusive deal. The Lumia 650 is reportedly currently the only no-contract smartphone in the U.S. with Windows 10 Mobile pre-installed, so customers with such need doesn’t have too many choices. The Lumia 650 should be a good choice however, especially when coupling with Cricket’s new unlimited data plan. The phone will go on sale on May 6 online and in physical Cricket stores throughout the U.S. at the cool price of $129.99.

Further reading: Lumia 650, Microsoft, Windows 10 Mobile