In a recent announcement Microsoft has revealed that are launching a new mobile phone which will be €19, “yes folks just €19” although the US giant has said the handset is being predominatly aimed at developing markets.
The new handset called the Nokia 130 is apparently designed for first time mobile phone users or those who want a reliable second handset alongside a smartphone.
According to a recent survey the market for cheap mobile phones is growing rapidly, as mobile networks develop in emerging markets in Asia, Africa and the Middle East. This complies with recent figures which suggest that over 300 million people buy phones priced at under $35 (€26) each year.
The new device will apparently have a 1.8 inch colour screen, music and video players, a torch, FM radio and is chargeable via USB. Microsoft claim the battery life will last up to 36 days’ standby for the single-SIM variety and 26 days’ standby for the dual-SIM model. They also claim the phone can store 16 hours of video on its microSD card, which can be expanded up to 32GB. However before any of you are thinking purchasing the handset, it is understood that device does not have an internet connection.
The handset is due to go on sale in the third quarter of this year in select markets, including China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines and Vietnam.