The Indian smartphone market welcomed a new player with the launch of the AI+ Nova 5G on July 8, 2025, under NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, led by former Realme India CEO Madhav Sheth. Priced starting at ₹7,999, this budget-friendly 5G smartphone aims to deliver a compelling mix of performance, AI-driven features, and a “Made in India” ethos. Launched alongside the AI+ Pulse 4G, the Nova 5G stands out with its 5G connectivity, robust battery, and clean software experience, making it a strong contender in the sub-₹10,000 segment. Let’s explore what the AI+ Nova 5G brings to the table.
Design and Build: Sleek and Eco-Conscious
The AI+ Nova 5G sports a sleek design with a 6.7-inch HD+ IPS display featuring a 120Hz refresh rate and 450 nits of brightness, ensuring smooth visuals and responsive touch interactions for gaming and scrolling. The phone measures 168.04 x 77.70 x 8.20mm and weighs approximately 196 grams, with a sleek plastic frame reinforced by Panda Glass for added durability. Available in vibrant colors—Black, Blue, Green, Pink, and Purple—the device features an AI+ branded back panel crafted from partly recycled materials, aligning with India’s eco-conscious “Make in India” initiative. The side-mounted fingerprint scanner and face unlock add convenience and security.
Performance and Software: Powered by NxtQuantum OS
At its core, the AI+ Nova 5G is driven by the 6nm Unisoc T8200 8-core processor, boasting a 510K+ AnTuTu score for seamless multitasking and moderate gaming. It comes in two variants: 6GB RAM + 128GB storage (₹7,999) and 8GB RAM + 128GB storage (₹9,999), with expandable storage up to 1TB via a microSD card. Running on NxtQuantum OS, a bloatware-free UI based on Android 15, the Nova 5G offers a clean and secure experience. The NxtPrivacy Dashboard allows users to monitor app data access, while features like NxtSafe Space, NxtMove App, and app cloning enhance personalization. Data is stored securely on MeitY-approved Google Cloud servers in India, emphasizing privacy.
Camera: AI-Enhanced Photography
The AI+ Nova 5G features a 50MP AI-backed dual rear camera with CIF clarity, supporting modes like Night Mode, Portrait, and HDR for versatile photography. It can record 1080p videos, catering to casual content creators. The 5MP front camera, housed in a waterdrop notch, handles selfies and video calls adequately for its price range. AI enhancements optimize image quality, making it suitable for social media enthusiasts on a budget.
Battery and Connectivity: Built for Endurance
Equipped with a 5,000mAh battery, the Nova 5G supports 18W fast charging, offering reliable endurance for daily use. Connectivity options include Dual 5G SIM support, Wi-Fi (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a USB Type-C port. The phone also supports Miracast for screen mirroring, adding versatility for media consumption.
Pricing and Availability
The AI+ Nova 5G is priced at ₹7,999 for the 6GB/128GB variant and ₹9,999 for the 8GB/128GB model, with a ₹500 discount on Axis Bank or Flipkart Axis Bank credit card EMI transactions. It went on sale via Flipkart, Flipkart Minutes, and Shopsy starting July 13, 2025, with a one-year warranty and exchange bonuses under the Prexo program.
Final Thoughts
The AI+ Nova 5G is a value-driven smartphone that combines 5G connectivity, a smooth display, and AI-enhanced features at an accessible price point. While it may not compete with flagship devices, its focus on local manufacturing, privacy, and a clean Android experience makes it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking modern functionality.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | 6.7-inch HD+ IPS, 1600 x 720 pixels, 120Hz, 450 nits, Panda Glass |
| Processor | Unisoc T8200 (6nm, 8-core, 510K+ AnTuTu score) |
| RAM | 6GB / 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB (expandable up to 1TB via microSD) |
| Rear Camera | 50MP AI dual camera (CIF clarity), Night Mode, Portrait, HDR, 1080p video |
| Front Camera | 5MP (waterdrop notch) |
| Battery | 5,000mAh, 18W fast charging |
| OS | NxtQuantum OS (Android 15-based), NxtPrivacy Dashboard, NxtSafe Space |
| Dimensions | 168.04 x 77.70 x 8.20mm |
| Weight | 196g |
| Build | Plastic frame, Panda Glass, partly recycled materials |
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green, Pink, Purple |
| Connectivity | Dual 5G, Wi-Fi (dual-band), Bluetooth 5.0, GPS, USB Type-C, 3.5mm jack, Miracast |
| Sensors | Side-mounted fingerprint, G-Sensor, Proximity, Light, Face Unlock |
| Additional Features | NxtQuantum PlayStore, Community App, no bloatware, MeitY-approved data storage |
