Nokia launches Ovi Mail, new entry-level Net-enabled phones

MANILA, Philippines – In its efforts to make the Internet much more accessible to consumers in emerging markets, Nokia introduced at a press conference held in Dusit Hotel last Tuesday a new range of low-priced mobile phones and solutions that open the door to information, entertainment, family and friends.

The new handsets are the Nokia 2330 classic, which is now available in stores, as well as the Nokia 2323 classic, 2700 classic and 2730 classic, all of which will soon be commercially available.

The four new handsets, the most expensive of which is expected not to exceed P6,000 at current exchange rates, are Internet-ready and work with Nokia’s Ovi Mail, giving first-time e-mail users the opportunity to set up and start using an e-mail account (i.e. [email protected]) directly on their mobile phone.

“The power of the Internet is undeniable,” said William Hamilton-Whyte, general manager of Nokia Philippines.

“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 Ovi Mail, combined with the mobile phones we’re showcasing today, bring powerful solutions that can be the gateway to knowledge, entertainment and people, without the need for a PC,” he added.

According to extensive Nokia consumer research, nearly half of the 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 locally relevant 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. 

“While many people are still primarily using voice and text with their phones, the Internet does offer a whole new range of opportunities. Ovi Mail has the potential to be the first digital identity for many people in emerging markets,” Hamilton-Whyte said.

“Unlike most other e-mail services, an Ovi Mail account can be created and used directly on a Nokia device without ever having to use a PC. Since the launch of the beta service in December 2008, around 90 percent of the e-mail accounts have been created on a Nokia phone,” he added.

Aside from offering support for Ovi Mail, the Nokia 2323 classic offers an FM radio with recording, GPRS, Bluetooth and an Internet browser.

With a choice of black or dark blue, the Nokia 2323 classic will make its debut in retail stores next month.

The Nokia 2330 classic, on the other hand, is a low-cost camera phone with contemporary design and enhanced features, which include a VGA camera, BT and Stereo FM radio and radio recording, and support for MP3 ringtones. It comes in black or deep red and is now available at all Nokia Stores and authorized dealers nationwide for P3,600. 

The Nokia 2700 classic is one of Nokia’s most affordable, full-featured handsets. Offering up to 2GB of storage via the memory card slot, the phone also has an integrated digital music player and a 2.0-megapixel camera, making it equally competent for imaging and music.

The Nokia 2700 classic also allows users to set up an Ovi Mail account directly on their device. It will be released commercially in the third quarter.

Last but not least is the Nokia 2730 classic. It, too, works with Ovi Mail, and is Nokia’s most affordable 3G phone, offering faster access to the Internet and a richer browsing experience.

With the steady spread of 3G data networks across the developing world, the Nokia 2730 classic is ideal for staying connected with friends and family, and sharing one’s life with others.

The Nokia 2730 classic is expected to be commercially available in the third quarter.

“With our long-standing commitment to emerging markets, a Nokia customer can be confident that any product we offer meets a strict and consistent set of high-quality standards. This is particularly important in markets where technical assistance and repair shops are not easily accessible,” Hamilton-Whyte said.