Microsoft has announced a new entry-level phone which the company says is designed to connect first-time mobile phone buyers to the Internet. Dubbed Nokia 215, the device is priced at $29 (before taxes and subsidies), and is available in both Single SIM and Dual SIM models.
The Nokia 215 features a 2.4-inch QVGA LCD display at 320 by 240 pixels, a 0.3 megapixel camera, 8MB of RAM, a microSD card slot supporting 32GB, as well as a 1100 mAh battery offering up to 20 hours of talk time, and standby time of up to 29 days or 21 days for Single SIM and Dual SIM models, respectively.
The phone runs Nokia's Series 30 operating system, and comes pre-loaded with Facebook, Messenger, Twitter, Bing Search, MSN Weather, and many other popular apps. Connectivity options include Micro USB, 900/1800 MHz band support, Bluetooth 3.0 with SLAM and HSP/HFP profile.
"With our ultra-affordable mobile phones and digital services, we see an inspiring opportunity to connect the next billion people to the Internet for the first time," said Jo Harlow, corporate vice president of Microsoft Devices Group, adding that the Nokia 215 is perfect for people looking for their first mobile device, or those wanting to upgrade to enjoy social media services, like Facebook and Messenger.
Both Single and Dual SIM models of the Nokia 215 will be available in Bright Green, Black, and White, and will roll out first "in select markets" in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, as well as Europe in Q1 2015.