Microsoft's new Internet-ready phone to sell for just over P1,000

 

 

As far as Internet-ready phones go, Microsoft may have found a killer feature: a low, low price—about $29 (P1,305).

 

Microsoft this week introduced the Nokia 215 and Nokia 215 Dual SIM, which it said is aimed at helping people in emerging markets.

 

"With a price tag of just $29 before taxes and subsidies, Nokia 215 is our most affordable Internet-ready entry-level phone yet, perfectly suited for first-time mobile phone buyers or as a secondary phone for just about anyone," it said in a blog post.

 

 

Preinstalled Opera Mini, Facebook

 

The Nokia 215 has preinstalled Facebook and Messenger with instant notifications, as well as Twitter.

 

Users can browse the Internet with the Opera Mini browser and Bing search.

 

On the other hand, the phone can be paired with a Bluetooth headset or speaker, and can share content using SLAM technology.

 

Other features include a built-in MP3 player and FM radio, and a built-in flashlight.

 

"(F)or those who have no access to electricity (in 2014, that’s still almost 20% of the world’s population), the torch is a necessity!" Microsoft said.

 

2G support

 

A separate report on The Verge said the Nokia 215 may not be that fast in terms of browsing, supporting only 2G networks.

 

"However, as mobile markets in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East continue to develop, consumers will get hungrier for more advanced devices and the 215 is another neat, intermediary phone," it said.

 

Long standby time, durability

 

The Nokia 215 also boasts of a long battery life, with the Single SIM variant lasting up to 29 days on a single charge and the Dual SIM one lasting up to 21 days.

 

Rollout

 

Microsoft said the 215 and Dual-SIM will roll out first in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe in the first quarter of 2015. — Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News