Software developer Microsoft Corporation (MSFT) has launched its two most affordable smartphones, Microsoft Lumia 435 and Lumia 532. Both the handsets will be priced within the range of 69 to 79 euros ($81 to $93) pre-tax and will be available in February in the Middle East, Africa, India, other Asia and Europe. Microsoft hasn’t announced any U.S. plans as of now.
The launch of the Lumia 435 and Lumia 532 translates into more choices for customers when it comes to budget-friendly, powerful and innovative smartphones backed by Windows Phone 8.1 operating system (OS) and Microsoft’s latest services. The launch not only brings two more cost-effective options but also gets Windows Phone 8.1 experiences to new price points.
These handsets are the most affordable Lumia devices to date and will help Microsoft push its Windows Phone OS, thereby increasing its market share. It will help the software maker target first-time smartphone buyers globally.
The phones will be available in various colors — bright green, bright orange, white and black. Microsoft is coming out with two versions of both the phones- one of which will have a single SIM card slot. The other version will have slots for two SIM cards so that users can switch between service providers.
Prices will vary according to the market but it is estimated that Lumia 435 and Lumia 532 will be available for 69 euros and 79 euros before taxes and subsidies, respectively. Lumia 435 is Microsoft’s first 400-series phone and the most affordable Lumia so far. Both the phones will support 3G networks.
Microsoft is trying to make its mark with economical devices. Last week, it unveiled a new ultra affordable Nokia (NOK) Internet-ready mobile phone called Nokia 215 for the entry-level market.
It is also trying to increase its market share in the global smartphone market as Windows Phone still has a very tiny market share in comparison to Apple’s (AAPL) iOS and Google’s (GOOGL) Android mobile platforms.
So we need to wait and see whether the company’s initiatives to draw customers and gain traction in the entry-level mobile phone market and global smartphone market pay off.
Microsoft shares carry a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
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