A former tech giant's flagship smartphone is reportedly equipping a lower SoC. Nokia 8 will allegedly ship out with the SnapDragon 660 SoC instead of the faster 835 chip. Interestingly, Nokia's comeback bid may base on producing rugged functional phones. A strategy that will either backfire or bring the company back to the market leader board.

The piece of information might be Nokia's way of telling us of its own production schemes. Apparently, a Forbes contributor does agree with the company's practical approach. Ewan Spence believes that not having a "high spec" handset during the first year is a valid ploy.

It's worth to consider that the improved 3310 is already shaping up as a hit among masses. Plus the new Nokia 5 and 6 are already being queued by many people, especially those who can't afford $800 units.

There is no argument where Nokia is going with the said strategy. Why risk getting into the crowded $800 smartphone market when they can dominate the $150 zone?

South American, Indian and, Southeast Asian consumers are likely to buy cheaper phones. In fact, the $150 market far outnumber the market for high-end handsets in population. Curiously, these people will likely fall for Nokia's trap, especially to thrifty buyers.

However, this might also turn out as a bad marketing strategy. "Lower spec" units is not likely going to impress younger buyers. The SnapDragon 660 SoC might not be able to deliver the processing power to play heavy games and apps.

This setback will probably hurt Nokia in the coming months. Depending on the situation, it could still go both ways. Leaked performance benchmark seems to show acceptable computing prowess.

Nonetheless, judging from the reception Nokia is receiving, things are looking well. Hopefully, HMD Global (Nokia's new owners) will not mess up. An old trailblazer that paved way to today's phones is finally back.