Nokia phone business, which will be part of the software giant Microsoft next year, has shown its long term commitment in the smartphone and tablet world that is currently dominated by Samsung and Apple.
First, the struggling handset maker chose Dubai as the launch pad to announce a number of devices — six new – with a promise to better applications and experiences.
Middle East has seen BlackBerry launching Gold phones. No doubt, rich community in the Middle East can change the market share of Nokia as well.
These six devices include Nokia’s first Windows tablet (Lumia 2520), two Lumia smartphones with 6-inch screens (Lumia 1520 and Lumia 1320) and three Asha phones (Asha 500, Asha 502, Asha 503) that support 3G. It will be ideal for mobile markets such as India and China.
The strategy of Nokia is clear. It needs to play in the volume and value market of smartphone and tablet. It does not lose market share in the phablet segment. At the same time, Nokia is ready to test in the rapidly growing tablet market.
Stephen Elop, executive vice president, Devices & Services at Nokia, who will move to Microsoft next year, announced the launch.
Nokia also showed new accessories to make life easier and more fun, and announced an array of new Nokia and third-party applications which enhance the Asha and Lumia experience.
Stephen Elop made an interesting appeal to fans of Samsung, Apple, LG, Sony, BlackBerry, etc.
“Today we’re inviting people around the world to switch to Nokia. With our latest range of Lumia and Asha products, we’re delivering industry leading design and imaging innovation to bigger devices at more accessible prices,” Elop said.
Nokia Lumia 1520 will be priced at $749 before taxes and subsidies in Hong Kong, Singapore, U.S., China, U.K., France, Germany, Finland and other European markets, with other markets to follow.
Nokia Lumia 1320 will be priced at $339 before taxes and subsidies in China and Vietnam, followed by other Asian markets, India and Europe.
Nokia Asha 500 will be priced at $69 before taxes or subsidies in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.
Nokia Asha 502 will be priced before taxes or subsidies at $89 in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe and Middle East.
Nokia Asha 503 will be priced before taxes or subsidies at $99 in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East.