The C1 Brethren Tweet

NAIROBI, Kenya - Alongside the Nokia C1-00 announced today come two further models in the range. The C1-01 and C1-02 offer relevant variations on the theme of inexpensive, no-nonsense mobile access, but with some thoroughly modern features. Colour screens, web browsing, a music player, Bluetooth, GPRS and email mean that even the most careful phone buyer won’t be far behind the curve.

Once again designed with emerging markets in mind, the C1-01 and C1-02 look similar and have the same dimensions. Both boast a Series 40 interface in a stylish yet unmistakeably ‘classic’ design. Frankly, they look a lot nicer than a lot of my friends’ phones. Both offer dual-band ECSM and GSM communications, as well as GPRS for data.

The C1-01 is a low-cost ‘feature’ phone with an estimated retail price of EUR 39. Nonetheless, it comes with a VGA camera, an SD memory card slot for up to 32 GB of storage, mail and chat. There’s also an FM radio and music player.

The C1-02 is even more affordable, with an expected retail price of EUR 35. It’s designed as anyone’s first phone and first access to the world of mobile and digital communications. Despite the price, beyond making phone calls, buyers once again get Ovi Mail and Chat, Bluetooth and the same SD memory card slot and music features.

Nokia is placing considerable emphasis on the presence of a web browser and email on these inexpensive phones. That’s with good reason: almost anyone in the world will soon have the opportunity of having some sort of digital identity and communication options.

In selected markets, the two models will come with Nokia’s Ovi Life Tools and Nokia Money. The former allows access to local market information, educational tools and entertainment, while the latter allows for mobile banking without the need to visit a bank.

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