Although the idea of using a dumb phone would be inconceivable to a lot of smartphone users, there remains a very large market for such handsets. In many developing regions worldwide, the problems of low income and a unreliable power grid often make smartphone ownership an unattainable aspiration.
In its announcement today, HMD recognised that over 1.3 billion people worldwide rely on a feature phone. Following up on the success of Nokia handsets launched over the past few years, the company unveiled the new Nokia 105 and Nokia 130 as an upgrade for these users.
Nokia 105
HMD Global
The Nokia 105 is now well established as the leading modern feature phone. First launched by Microsoft when the Nokia brand was under its tenure, the 105 has gone on to sell over 200 million devices worldwide. Today, HMD unveiled a refreshed design with a more ergonomic shape and a modified keypad. It retains the same basic look as previous 105s but HMD said it offers improved quality and reliability.
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HMD has fitted a larger 1.8-inch screen and expanded the storage capacity to 500 text messages and 2,000 contacts. There’s also two preloaded games, specially-ported versions of hit smartphone titles Doodle Jump and Crossy Road. Like previous Nokia feature phones, there’s a built-in FM radio and torch, important features in emerging markets.
Nokia 130
HMD Global
The new Nokia 130 has a similar design to the updated 105. It’s designed for users looking for a little more functionality, expanding on the 105 with improved media functions. There’s a built-in camera, Bluetooth and support for microSD cards.
To smartphone users, devices like the Nokia 105 and 130 may appear to be minor developments. HMD suggested they actually represent truly transformative technology, offering previously disconnected people the chance to communicate with each other and get online. In this respect, their launch is more significant than a flagship smartphone’s.
Nokia 130
HMD Global
“With more than 4 billion people remaining offline and unable to benefit from the social and economic development opportunities of the Internet, simply getting connected by voice and text is still such an important step,” said HMD Global CEO Arto Nummela. “We cannot underestimate the need and benefit of being connected and we are dedicated to delivering devices that can enable many people around the world to expand their horizon.”
Nummela added that 400 million new feature phones were shipped last year alone, indicating the appeal of such devices. The new Nokia 105 and 130 go on sale from today in several markets worldwide. The 105 is priced at $14.50 for the single-SIM variant or $15 for the dual-SIM version. The Nokia 130 is priced at $21.50.
