As part of its C-series range, Nokia has released four new low-cost handsets which are being targeted at emerging markets.
The cheapest of the new models is the C1-00, which is priced at only EUR30 without taxes and subsidies. This model also features brand new technology in the form of a 2-in-1 double SIM solution. Nokia VP Alex Lambeek explains the advantages of this new system: "By simply holding down a key, people are able to switch between SIM cards. This enables them to take advantage of reduced call rates, flexibility when travelling from one country to another, or helps with sharing a phone within a family and still use their own SIM.”
Nokia claims that the C1-00 can boast the longest battery life of any Nokia device, with a standby battery time of up to six weeks. The device was designed for use in regions where electricity supplies are unreliable, or where access to electricity is limited.
The second handset – the Nokia C2 - also features dual SIM, but can keep both SIM cards active; meaning calls and text messages can come to either number while the phone is on. It is priced at EUR45.
The two other handsets are both part of the Nokia C1 range (C1-01 and C1-02) and are both single SIM products. The Nokia C1 (C1-00) is expected to ship in the third quarter of 2010, with the Nokia C1 (C1-01) in the early fourth quarter, and the Nokia C1 (C1-02) and Nokia C2 towards the end of the fourth quarter.
Alongside the new handsets, Nokia also unveiled the Nokia Bicycle Charger Kit, which uses a dynamo - a small electrical generator – to use the movement of the wheels to charge a handset fixed to a bike. The kit uses the standard 2mm charging jack used in most Nokia mobile phones. “This is a great solution to a real challenge, whether people will use it due to limited access to electricity, or to be more environmentally responsible," said Lambeek. The kit will be available before the end of the year.
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