Get ready, Microsoft is gearing up to launch two new Lumia phones before the end of the year. Currently code-named as “Cityman” and “Talkman”, Windows Central reports that both handsets will feature an iris scanner to sign into the phones only using your face ditching complicated passwords and PIN.
The new functionality is part of Windows Hello, which is a new security feature that supports facial recognition and fingerprint scanner to let users sign into Windows 10.
In addition, the company will be bringing the same Surface Pen technology to both devices, and there will be a new smart cover that features a circular opening to view new notifications.
Both devices reportedly will have an optional accessory code-named “Munchkin”, which is a USB Type-C docking station featuring a USB and display port. The optional $99 accessory will let the handsets use the new Continuum feature part of Windows 10 Mobile using a keyboard and mouse.
While we have yet to see an official image of the new handsets, Windows Central was able to render an image of the Lumia 950 XL, currently code-named “Cityman”, and according to sources the image you see above reflects accurately how the handset will look like.
Below you can see more information on the tech specs for the Lumia 950/950 XL:
Talkman (Lumia 950)
- Matte White or black poly-carbonate body
- 5.2 inch WQHD (1440×2560) OLED display
- Snapdragon 808, 64-bit Hexa core
- Iris scanner (infrared) for Windows Hello
- 3GB of RAM
- 32GB of internal storage with a microSD card slot
- 20MP PureView rear camera
- 5MP Wide-angle front facing camera
- 3000 mAh removable battery
- Qi wireless charging with flip cover
- USB Type-C
Cityman (Lumia 950 XL)
- Matte White or black poly-carbonate body
- 5.7 inch WQHD (1440×2560) OLED display
- Snapdragon 810, 64-bit Octa core
- Iris scanner (infrared) for Windows Hello
- 3GB of RAM
- 32GB of internal storage with a microSD card slot
- 20MP PureView rear camera with triple LED flash
- 1mm silver ring inside the circumference of the black camera pod
- Aluminum side buttons
- 5MP Wide-angle front facing camera
- 3300 mAh removable battery
- Qi wireless charging integrated
- USB Type-C
Although it hasn’t been confirmed, both phones are likely to hit the shelves in October or November. The Lumia 950 (Talkman) is likely to ship first, while the Lumia 950 XL (Cityman) will go on sale a few weeks later. In addition, both handsets may also feature universal GSM radios, which in theory could allow Microsoft to sell the phones carrier-unlocked in the United States.
The report also says that in United States, AT&T will only sell the Talkman phone, while Verizon won’t be selling either phone, as the company is ending relationships with the software maker.
Source Windows Central
Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 14 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 20 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].