Nokia touts video recording in new Lumia phone

This undated handout photo provided by Nokia shows the company’s new Windows phone that promises enhanced video-recording capabilities. AP

NEW YORK—Nokia is selling a new Windows phone that promises enhanced video-recording capabilities.

The new Lumia Icon sports four microphones, compared with the one or two typically found in smartphones. The two on the front are activated when making phone calls, while the two on the rear are used when taking video—to better capture sound coming from the subjects.

The Icon takes video in 1080p high-definition resolution as well as still images of up to 19 megapixels. The resolution for still images isn’t as sharp as the 38-megapixel maximum on Nokia’s flagship Lumia 1020, but that allows the Icon camera to be flatter, without a protruding lens.

Nokia is one of the main companies making phones based on Microsoft’s Windows Phone 8 system. The system is growing in use, but it lags iPhones and Android devices in market share. Many apps come to iPhones and Android devices first.

Microsoft Corp. is trying to boost its Windows Phone system as sales of traditional personal computers decline. Microsoft is buying Nokia’s phone business and patent rights for $7.3 billion in a deal expected to be completed by the end of March.

The Lumia Icon will be available starting Feb. 20 through Verizon Wireless for $200 with a two-year service contract, or $550 without.

The Icon is similar to Nokia Corp.’s Lumia 1520, except its screen measures just 5 inches (12.7 centimeters) diagonally, compared with 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) on the 1520. The 1520 is available only through AT&T.

The Icon supports wireless re-charging and works with a variety of charging mats and other accessories sold separately.—Anick Jesdanun