Nokia introduces lowest cost mobile device, Developed specifically for people in rural areas.

– In its ongoing effort to bridge the digital divide, Nokia today introduced a range of affordable mobile devices and innovative new services specifically for people in emerging markets. In addition to Nokia’s lowest cost handset to date, as well as its first handset for emerging markets with an integrated digital music player, Nokia unveiled a range of services that leverage the power of the Internet. Estimated retail prices of the new devices range from 25 to 90 EUR, with several models expected to begin shipping in 2008. Nokia’s suite of Internet services for emerging markets will be available beginning in 2009.
The first services Nokia will offer in emerging markets will focus on email, agriculture and education, which based on consumer feedback, present the strongest demand in emerging markets.
Mail on Ovi, which is enabled on Nokia Series 40 devices, offers the possibility to create an email account directly on the mobile phone without having to use a personal computer, giving millions of users the possibility to create their first internet identity and communicate in new ways. Mail on Ovi is easy to find, set-up and use, for immediate email access from your mobile phone.
Nokia Life Tools is a range of innovative agriculture information and education services designed especially for rural and small town communities in emerging markets. Nokia Life Tools helps overcome information constraints and provides farmers and students with timely and relevant information. These services use an icon-based, graphically rich user interface that comes complete with tables and which can even display information simultaneously in two languages. Behind this rich interface, SMS is used to deliver the critical information to ensure that this service works wherever a mobile phone does, without the hassles of additional settings or the need for GPRS coverage.
Seven new mobile devices offer a range features, styles and price points To support the range of new mobile services for emerging markets, Nokia also expanded its portfolio of affordable mobile phones, including:
The Nokia 1202 and Nokia 1661 offer exceptional value from a brand that represents quality and trust. At only 25 EUR, the Nokia 1202 is Nokia’s lowest cost mobile device to date. Developed specifically for people in rural areas, the Nokia 1202 includes standard features like a flashlight, extended battery life, loud ringtones and a phone book for up to five users. The Nokia 1661 is Nokia’s lowest cost color phone including an FM radio and a large color screen. The Nokia 1661 also supports flashlight, loud ringtones and multiple phonebooks. The Nokia 1661 is expected to begin shipping in the first quarter of 2009 with an estimated retail price of 30 EU