NOKIA and Safaricom have partnered to offer a new messaging service aimed at helping users interact with each other through email, chat and messaging on a newly launched handset as well as a range of Nokia devices.
Dubbed Nokia Messaging Service (NMS), the new messaging service brings mobile messaging and social networking into the hands of more people, at affordable prices.
The solution is an easy-to-set-up, easy-to-use push email service which allows user to mobilise up to 10 personal email accounts on one device. Nokia messaging supports all leading consumer email solutions such as Gmail, Windows Live, Hotmail and Yahoo! Mail as well as local email service providers. It will be available to subscribers of mobile network, Safaricom.
Speaking during the launch, Safaricom Chief Commercial Officer Peter Arina said the devices launched would greatly improve the uptake of data-based communication in the Kenyan market. He lauded the affordability of the devices on offer.
“This launch is particularly important to Safaricom as it is fully aligned with our commitment to partner with quality handset and equipment makers in our quest to widen the reach and appeal of data-based communication in the Kenyan market.
“The high cost of internet-enabled devices has been a major entry barrier for users keen to enjoy a full data experience in this market.
We note with satisfaction that NMS converges both mobile messaging and social networking and, most importantly, puts it in the hands of more people at an affordable price,” said Arina.
“Our messaging device range is very successful,” said Kenneth Oyolla, Nokia General Manager for East and Southern Africa.
“Services that provide easy access to the world’s consumer and corporate email and instant messaging are really popular on our QWERTY smartphones such as the Nokia E71 and Nokia E63. People want the best messaging and social networking experience on an affordable device, whether it’s sending a simple text or instant message, an email, or a direct message from their Twitter account. The Nokia C3 and Nokia E5 are made for just that.”
The Nokia C3, which was launched on the Kenyan market, is the first device to bring a full QWERTY keyboard to the world’s most popular mobile phone platform — Series 40 — and is the first in the range to enable access to social networks directly on the homescreen. People can view, comment, update their status and share pictures on their favourite social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.
At an estimated price of 90 Euros before taxes, the Nokia C3 also comes with Ovi Mail and Ovi Chat, meaning first time users can set up email and chat accounts straight from the device, without the need for a PC.
Other notable features are the Wi-Fi connectivity, a two-megapixel camera, rich color 2.4 inch screen and support for up to an 8GB memory card.
The Nokia C3 is expected to go on sale on Wednesday September 29 in a variety of appealing colors, including golden white, slate grey and hot pink.
BRIAN ADERO in Nairobi, Kenya
