Windows Phone, like Microsoft Zune, is something that won’t die (or be forgotten). While Microsoft’s mobile efforts failed, at least with its own OS, the passion of those who owned a Nokia Lumia is still unparalleled.
Grid Studio has been around for a few years now and specializes in selling back our mobile memories but mounted and framed. And it’s not just the device, which would be boring. Instead, each electronic item is broken down into its components or “exploded,” meticulously labeled, and re-mounted.
Grid offers old-school devices such as the Game Boy Color, Xbox One Controller, iPhones, Apple Watch, and BlackBerry Bold 9000.
But now, the company has created its first Windows Phone mount with the framed Nokia Lumia 520. The Lumia 520 was the phone that kicked off significant momentum for the Microsoft ecosystem selling more than any other Windows Phone.
Announced in early 2013 at Mobile World Congress, the Lumia 520 was the most affordable on the market, coming in at $99 (it later dropped to just $19 on Amazon and $30 from Microsoft, which is crazy). It also won the Mobile World Congress award for 'Best Low-cost Smartphone' that year.
As a refresher, the Lumia 520 launched with the Windows Phone 8 OS (later going to 8.1). It had a Snapdragon S4 1.0GHz processor with just 512MB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. On the rear was a single 5MP camera, and there was none for the front because selfies weren’t a thing yet, which is weird in hindsight.
Grid Studio Lumia 520: Fit and finish
When ordering, the Grid Studio kit comes from China in an excellent package, wrapped and protected so that the frame and cover don’t get damaged.
There is no glass, and the 11.7 x 16.5-inch frame is on the more affordable side, but that’s also because you’re paying for (most) of a Nokia Lumia 520, its disassembly, mounting, plus free shipping.
The frame has mounting options on the rear (two hangers on each side), and you can easily take it apart (and use your own frame if you want).
For those concerned about the battery, don’t. While it is a genuine Lumia 520, the battery is fake for safety reasons so that it won’t expand or explode.
Looking more closely at the Grid Studio Lumia 520, you can read many details on the various parts like the speaker, the complete camera module, the main board, and cables. It's all super cool looking.
A nice touch is the inclusion of the “The more fun smartphone” tagline, which was used in the original marketing for the Lumia 520. There is also the date that Lumia 520 launched, which was April 2013.
Grid Studio Lumia 520: Worth it?
Overall, I can give a big thumbs up to the Grid Studio Lumia 520 as it commemorates a milestone for the Windows Phone era and arguably its peak popularity. If you (or someone you know) are a diehard Windows Phone fan, this seems like an obvious gift that will delight you for years to come.
My only complaint? I’d love to see a similar Grid Studio mount for the Nokia Lumia 920 or Lumia 1020. My guess is if enough people order a Lumia 520 the company would consider offering other Windows Phone displays, so spread the word.
The Grid Studio Lumia 520 kit retails for $199 but is on sale for $169. Shipping is global and free.
Hardcore Windows Phone fans (or anyone who appreciates mobile phone history) will want to grab this "exploded" and authentic Nokia Lumia 520 framed and mounted. It's the perfect gift for yourself or your favorite Windows Phone lover.
