The Nokia 2600 and 1209

Nokia has just announced two new handsets geared towards emerging markets and first-time mobile users. While these devices aren’t quite as exciting as Nokia’s higher-end S60 handsets, they will go a long way in emerging markets just as their predecessors have. The Nokia 2600 (pictured left) is the more sophisticated of the two phones, and sports features such as a FM radio, a VGA camera, email and MMS support, Bluetooth and MP3 ringtone support. It also features a battery life of more than 24 days in standby mode and a price tag of €65 ($95). The second handset, dubbed the Nokia 1209 (pictured right), is the more likely candidate for newer emerging markets. With a low cost of €35 ($50), the 1209 is far more accessible. It cuts out much of the functionality but includes many useful features such as a flashlight, a dust-resistant keypad, a cost-tracking application and support for up to five unique phonebooks. Low-cost devices such as the 2600 and 1209 have been a huge part of Nokia’s business in the past thanks to good build quality, price point, and their ability to produce them quickly and efficiently. From the looks of these two new handsets, Nokia will continue to own the low-end market in 2008; the 2600 is already shipping and the 1209 is due in Q2.