In a bid to popularize 3G network services in India, a range of Idea 3G smartphones were introduced to the country a few days ago. They are said to be quite affordably priced for catering to the semi urban and township populations of India.
Idea Cellular had released its 3G network services, which currently offer coverage to about 1,600 towns in India, earlier this year. The new collection of smartphones will run on the Android 2.2 OS and feature touchscreens of two sizes namely, 3.5 inches and 2.8 inches.
Sashi Shankar, Chief Marketing Officer, Idea Cellular, elaborated, “Worldwide, smartphones are witnessing rapid uptake due to their multitasking capabilities and vast range of applications. While data uptake has witnessed steady growth ever since 3G services were launched in India, the progress and proliferation will be spurred with the availability of affordable 3G devices. Idea 3G smartphones will not only offer the best apps and technology experience to our users, at the most affordable price points, but are also loaded with huge data benefits and free offers exclusively for Idea users.”
The mobile devices offer users a variety of functionalities including, FM radio, GPS Navigator software, MP3 player, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and integration of social networking websites such as Facebook, Twitter, Orkut and the Operamini browser. They will also be pre-installed with Google, Idea TV and YouTube. According to Idea Cellular, the forthcoming handsets also serve as Wi-Fi routers.
For the introductory stage, Idea has decided to offer data services of Rs. 3,500 accompanied by a Rs. 259 pack along with the smartphones. Through this offer, the mobile devices priced at Rs. 5,850 and Rs. 7,992 will have a value of Rs. 2,609 and Rs. 4,751, respectively for Idea 3G users. The new Idea 3G smartphones are set to be available via leading mobile retail stores and Idea outlets across major cities in India.