Microsoft Launches Super Cheap Nokia 130 Handset

[[Coi] Mr.CLuBBeR]

An ultra-affordable mobile phone that isn't destined for the U.S., though maybe it should be

Wouldn't it be ironic if Microsoft's best selling mobile phone didn't run the company's Windows Phone platform? Hey, it could happen -- Microsoft today unveiled the Nokia 130, a super affordable mobile phone intended to bring the "digital experience" to millions of users in developing and emerging territories. It's only 19 euros (around $25 in U.S. currency) to own the phone outright with no service contract.
At that price, it's not meant to compete with high-end or even most entry-level handsets. It has a 1.8-inch Quarter-QVGA (160x120) color display, USB connectivity, microSD card slot with support for up to 32GB, built-in video player, MP3 player, FM radio, Bluetooth, flashlight, and a few other basic essentials available in single- or dual-SIM form. As for the software, it runs on Series 30+.
"As demand in the affordable mobile segment continues to grow, Microsoft remains committed to delivering market-leading mobile innovation at each and every price point," said Jo Harlow, corporate vice president for Phones, Microsoft Corp. "It is estimated that at least 1 billion people in the world still do not have a mobile phone, while at the same time there is increasing demand for reliable backup phones in both mature and high-growth markets."
Microsoft is only releasing the Nokia 130 in select markets, including China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Vietnam. However, we're in agreement with Geek.com that this would make a sensible handset for the U.S. market as well -- not for high-end users, obviously, but for kids or when traveling someplace where you don't want to risk losing an expensive smartphone.
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