Nokia 301 launched; comes with 3.5G

Nokia has taken us back in time, when we use to be very fond of its handsets with the just launched Nokia 301 which has the same ‘Candy Bar’ form factor that its range of handsets besides the name which sounds just like erstwhile range of handsets such as the 3300, 6600 etc. But Nokia has decided to target the budget smartphone market with renewed zeal – it offers 3.5 G for better internet connectivity along with a 2.4-inch screen, 3.2-megapixel camera and a UTV movies app. It comes at a price of Rs. 5349.

Mr. Viral Oza, Director, Marketing, Nokia India says,” The Nokia 301 is a power packed feature rich phone with 3.5G internet experience and smart camera. Being the first feature phone that can take panoramic pictures, there’s a lot more that you can do with its camera with 5 in one camera app, panorama mode, sequential shots and a clever little self-portrait mode that audibly prepares you for your next glamorous  picture”

There are two features that Nokia is boasting about with this handset: Firstly, 3.5G. The obvious question is how is it different from 3G?  Well, you might recall that we keep hearing about HSPA+ handsets. 3.5G is just another name for that. Simply put, it will guarantee higher internet surfing and download speeds since it can connect to links better.

Secondly, why would anyone call a 3.2-megapixel camera a ‘smart camera’? Well, even though the camera supports a low resolution, Nokia has jazzed it up by adding few treats such as the 5 sequential shots with one click and voice prompt for self-portraits. It also boasts of a 5-in-1 camera app, that lets you put some Instagram-esque frames.  The phone is dual-SIM and provides battery back-up of upto 20 hours.

At Rs.  5349, it is an option on the shelves for economy consumers to choose from. But, we believe Nokia can do much better considering companies like Micromax and Spice are offering even more at the same price.