5-inch Nokia XL blends Android, Asha, Windows Phone (pictures)

The largest of the Nokia X family of phones, the Nokia XL is an unusual mashup of Android, Asha, and Windows Phone operating systems.

At 5 inches, Nokia is positioning the XL as a larger-but-still-affordable handset for emerging markets.

Although it runs on Android code, it does so invisibly. In other words, you'll download apps from the Nokia store, rather than from Google Play.

The XL's 5-megapixel camera trumps the smaller Nokia X's 3-megapixel shooter, and also adds a 2-megapixel front-facing camera. Image quality is passable, but not terrific.

A substantial handful of a phone, the XL also lacks the physical camera shutter on the right spine of most Nokia-branded Windows phones. A slightly curved back makes it more comfortable to hold.

For more in-depth pros and cons, pricing, and a video tour of the larger Nokia X phone, read CNET's full Nokia XL review.