While the tech industry waits with baited breath for Apple's iPad refresh, Nokia hosted its own event in Abu Dhabi. Due to the time difference, the announcements didn't clash, but Nokia has given us plenty to talk about in the run up to Apple's event. The Finland-based Microsoft subsidiary added a host of new phones to its line up including the Asha 500, the Asha 502 and the Asha 503, all follow ons to the Asha 501 announced earlier this year.
These are billed as affordable phones, which means the specs aren't exactly out of this world, but they're not bad. The Asha 500 packs a 2.8-inch display, a 2-megapixel camera, and is available in single-SIM and dual-SIM variants. It'll start at just $59 when it launches later this year. The Asha 502 packs a 3-inch display, a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash, and dual-SIM support. Pricing will start at $89. The Asha 503 is the most 'high-end' of the lot and packs a 3-inch display, a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash, dual-SIM support, and a $99 price tag.
Availability for all three is set for Q4 of this year, with the Asha 500 and 502 scheduled for launch in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. The 503 is also headed for Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Middle East, though it's not clear which regions will get the phone before the end of the year. All three handsets will be available in bright red, bright green, yellow, cyan, white and black.
Jane McEntegart is a writer, editor, and marketing communications professional with 17 years of experience in the technology industry. She has written about a wide range of technology topics, including smartphones, tablets, and game consoles. Her articles have been published in Tom's Guide, Tom's Hardware, MobileSyrup, and Edge Up.
That phone isn't Android or Mobile 8.1 - think it's a Nokia Asha software platform 1.2. But I bought a new for 2013 Nokia 105 - Backlight keypad, flashlight, standard headphone jack, SMS,clock/calendar/notes, etc. , FM Radio, over 1 month standby time, and makes phone calls to!
It's even weather-proof and has a stronger signal than the more high-end N97. Not bad for a $10 phone.
Nokia is great at making these kinds of phones - I hope M$ doesn't ruin this side of Nokia.
