Nokia has announced two new Windows Phone devices and two feature phones at Mobile World Congress today.
Both of the Windows Phone smartphones are mid-priced handsets; the Nokia Lumia 720 runs a 1GHz dual-core processor and has a 4.3-inch screen plus a 6.7 megapixel camera. It’s expected to start selling in Hong Kong, Vietnam and Singapore in the next few weeks before becoming more widely available. SIM-free pricing is around €249 (£217+VAT). The Lumia 520 is currently the lowest-priced Windows Phone 8 smartphone, with an estimated SIM-free price of €139 (£121+VAT). Again, initial sales are expected from Q1 2013 in Hong Kong and Vietnam before a wider roll-out.
Two new basic phones, the Nokia 105 and the Nokia 301, echo some features and design aspects of the Lumia range.
The Nokia 105 is priced at €15 SIM-free - just £13+VAT, making it remarkably low priced - yet is dust-proof and splash-proof with a colour screen. It’ll go on sale from Q1 2013, as will the 3G-equipped Nokia 301.
Stephen Elop, President and Chief Executive Officer of Nokia, said “The momentum behind Nokia is gathering pace. The launches today reflect our commitment to broadening our devices and services portfolio to meet the demands of people and businesses around the globe. By offering better experiences at a more affordable price we are reinventing the battle for affordable mobile devices, and Nokia has the building blocks to win.”
In addition, Nokia has announced that its HERE location-based service brand will be available for driving and travel guidance on non-Nokia Windows Phone smartphones in some markets. As well as this, Nokia is opening up its imaging, location and music APIs to developers.
[Nokia Conversations blog]