Nokia Launches 3 More Handsets for Emerging Markets

Nokia brings the Internet in emerging markets closer to reality with the announcement of three new mobile phones that open the door to information, entertainment, family and friends. The Nokia 2730 classic, Nokia 2720 fold and Nokia 7020 each come Internet-ready, and work with Nokia's range of emerging market services such as Nokia Life Tools and Ovi Mail.

"The power of the Internet is undeniable," says Alex Lambeek, Vice President at Nokia. "We've seen mobile technologies catalyze the growth of the informal sector across the world, empowering local entrepreneurs and having an immediate and lasting impact on people's lives. Services like Nokia Life Tools and Ovi Mail, combined with the mobile phones we're launching today, bring powerful solutions that can be the gateway to knowledge, entertainment and people, without the need for a PC."

Nokia 2730 classic

The Nokia 2730 classic is Nokia's most affordable 3G phone offering faster access to the Internet at Rs. 5155 (EUR 80). The Nokia 2730 classic is expected to start shipping in the third quarter of 2009.

Nokia 2720 fold

The Nokia 2720 fold is a compact fold phone with a mirror-effect design, which helps people stay organized with easy access to email, calendar, Internet connectivity and file sharing applications. Email can be activated by completing a simple three step set-up process, and in select markets will be offered with Nokia Life Tools. The Nokia 2720 fold is expected to begin shipping in the third quarter of 2009 for an estimated retail price of Rs. 3576 (EUR 55) before subsidies and taxes.

Nokia 7020

Another fold phone from the company, the 7020 uses light, color and metal finishes conveying personal style. It has a stardust effect when a call or message comes in, or users can tap twice to have the cover light up. It also has options to connect to social networks and share pictures taken with the 2 megapixel camera. The Nokia 7020 is expected to begin shipping in the fourth quarter of 2009 for an estimated retail price of Rs. 5799 EUR 90 before subsidies and taxes.

According to extensive Nokia consumer research, nearly half of emerging market customers state that they would rather connect to the Internet over a mobile phone than a PC. As a result, Nokia has developed solutions that consist of affordable mobile phones and applications, designed and built from the ground up to meet the specific needs of customers in the developing world. Lambeek continues, "Whilst many people are still primarily using voice and text, the Internet does offer a whole new range of opportunities."