Microsoft just released its "most affordable Internet-ready entry level phone yet."
The Redmond-based tech giant recently unveiled a low-end smartphone that targets the Asian, Middle Eastern, and European markets that will not put a dent in the buyers' pockets. The newest device from Microsoft, dubbed as Nokia 215, may not be the most advanced smartphone to be released this year, but it boasts a powerful battery that will reportedly last for almost a month on standby.
The company claims that the single SIM version of the handset has a battery capacity that can last up to 29 days on standby, while its dual SIM variant has a battery standby capacity of up to 21 days. Both models can provide at least 20 hours of talk time, some reports say.
The entry level smartphone, which is set to be released at an incredibly low price of $29 in the first half of the year, is also packed with basic features that can be used for Internet and social media browsing. The announcement during the unveiling of the device said that "Browsing the web is super-easy, thanks to Opera Mini Browser and Bing Search."
It is also equipped with MSN Weather, as well as other popular social networking apps like Facebook, Messenger and Twitter. However, the device does not allow downloading of other additional apps because of its very small built-in memory that is only set at 8 MB.
Other notable features include a VGA camera, Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a built-in flashlight that "provides convenience, whether it's late at night or after you've turned off the lights." The flashlight is also meant "for 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 also said, "With a built-in MP3 player and FM radio, Nokia 215 keeps you entertained for up to 50 or 45 hours playback respectively."
Although the company declared that the smartphone will be released in international markets outside the U.S. in the first quarter of the year, there is still a clamor from the American market for the device's release on its shores.
