Microsoft has announced the launch of its Nokia 215 Dual SIM phone in India. Touted as Microsoft's most affordable Internet ready phone, the new phone is priced at Rs. 2149.
The Nokia 215 Dual SIM runs Nokia Series 30+. It has 2.4-inch QVGA display. Other important features include 1100 mAh battery, 900/1800 MHz, : micro USB, 3.5mm AV connector, Bluetooth 3.0 with SLAM and HSP/HFP profile connectivity, preloaded Facebook and Messenger, access to Facebook in 9 local languages, VGA Camera and Up to 32GB Micro SD supported.
The Nokia 215 will be available in a range of colors including bright green, black and white.
| Device | Nokia 215 Dual SIM |
| Operating system | Nokia Series 30+ |
| Display | 2,4” QVGA |
| Battery | BL-5C ,1100 mAh |
| Talk time & Standby time | Talk time: up to 20hrs |
| Camera | VGA Camera |
| Connectivity | 900/1800 MHz, : micro USB, 3.5mm AV connector, Bluetooth 3.0 with SLAM and HSP/HFP profile |
| Memory | Up to 32GB Micro SD supported |
| Dimensions | 116mm x 50mm x 12.9mm |
Speaking at the launch, Raghuvesh Sarup, Director-Marketing, Nokia India Sales Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Microsoft Mobiles Oy, was quoted saying, “India is a ‘mobile-first’ market, and feature phones are the first port of access to internet for a large number of mobile users. Microsoft remains dedicated to driving innovation and introducing phones to first time mobile phone users with great technology packed inside.”
He further added, “With the launch of Nokia 215 we are proud to partner with Facebook to improve the user experience further allowing more people to enjoy online experiences for the first time – like Facebook, Facebook Messenger, MSN Weather, and browsing with Opera Mini at an affordable price”.
Popularity of smartphones is growing, however still a large number of users are using feature phones. Lack of affordable devices has been one of the main obstacles for the adoption of smartphones in rural areas. While a number of smartphone brands are selling ultra low-cost smartphones, Internet-enabled feature phones are also welcome initiatives.
Microsoft recently launched the Nokia 130 Dual SIM feature phone for Rs. 1750. The Nokia 130 Dual SIM sports a 1.8-inch QVGA screen. It runs Series 30 OS. Other important features of the feature phone include built-in video and music players, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, FM Radio and support for 32GB microSD expandable memory. The phone is powered by a 1020 mAh battery that is rated to deliver 13 hours of talktime.