Ai+ Nova 2 Pro 5G Review | TelecomDrive.com
In a market flooded with me-too smartphones, the Ai+ Nova 2 Pro 5G arrives with a refreshingly different approach. Launched in India on June 22, 2026, as part of the company’s Nova Series expansion, this device positions itself as a performance-focused option for creators, professionals, and everyday users. With CEO Madhav Sheth throwing open an “unboxed” review challenge—no embargoes, no limits—we decided to put the 8GB + 128GB variant through its paces.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Opening the retail package reveals the Nova 2 Pro 5G in Black, a clear protective case, an 18W charger, USB Type-A to Type-C cable, and a SIM ejector tool. While the charging brick is rated at 18W, the phone itself supports 33W fast charging.
Right out of the box, the phone commands attention with its 6.9-inch FHD+ (2340 x 1080 pixels) LCD display. The 144Hz refresh rate is a standout feature in this price bracket, promising buttery-smooth scrolling and a responsive gaming experience. With up to 800 nits of HBM brightness, outdoor visibility is a strong suit. The glossy plastic back does attract fingerprints, so the included case will likely become a permanent companion.
Performance and Software
Under the hood, the Nova 2 Pro 5G packs the MediaTek Dimensity 7100 processor, built on a 6nm process. This chipset, paired with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of UFS storage, handles day-to-day multitasking such as browsing internet, watching videos or gaming with great ease. The microSD slot—supporting expansion up to 2TB—is a welcome inclusion for users with extensive media libraries.
Software-wise, the phone runs Android 16 with nxtQ OS on top. Ai+ has kept bloatware to a minimum, featuring useful additions like the NxtPrivacy Dashboard, NxtSafe Space, and a dedicated AI Key for instant smart access to AI-powered features. The phone also boasts a multi-layer cooling system for sustained performance during heavy gaming sessions.
Camera Capabilities
For a phone in this segment, the camera setup is comprehensive. The rear features a 48MP Sony IMX582 main sensor paired with an 8MP ultra-wide lens. The front houses a 13MP selfie shooter.
Both rear and front cameras support up to 2K video recording at 30fps. AI scene recognition and image enhancement are present across the board, aiming to improve image quality in various conditions.
Standout Feature: The Customizable Rear LED Lights
Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Nova 2 Pro is the customizable LED light strips on the rear panel. These lights can be personalized to alert you to incoming calls and notifications, adding a unique visual flair that sets this phone apart from the competition. It’s a small touch, but one that adds personality to the device.
Battery and Charging
Equipped with a massive 6000mAh battery, the Nova 2 Pro 5G promises exceptional endurance. This is complemented by 33W fast charging, which tops up the large battery reasonably quickly. For users who value longevity, this is a significant selling point.
Final Verdict
The Ai+ Nova 2 Pro 5G (8GB + 128GB) is priced at Rs. 17,999, with a Rs. 1,000 bank offer bringing it down to Rs. 16,999. At this price point, it competes fiercely with devices from established players.
The large 144Hz display, generous battery, clean Android 16 experience, and standout LED notification lights make it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers seeking both performance and personality. All in all, this is a great device to buy at this price point.
