SKIP TO MAIN CONTENT

Microsoft launches cheaper smartphone

Microsoft has dropped the Nokia name in launching the newest Lumia smartphone, which is entering the low-cost market at a recommended 110 euros.

A Lumia 535 smartphone
Microsoft has unveiled its new smartphone, the Lumia 535, which it plans to sell for around $165. (AAP)

2 min read

Published

Updated


Skip to article content

Microsoft has unveiled a cheaper smartphone, costing about 110 euros ($A165), as it eyes emerging and other low-cost markets for growth.

The new model is the first Lumia smartphone under Microsoft's own brand name. The company has released a few Lumia models since it bought Nokia's phone business this year, but those models still carried the Nokia brand.

The Lumia 535 Windows smartphone will have a 5-inch screen, as measured diagonally. It comes with 5-megapixel front and rear cameras, which should snap sharper selfies than typical smartphones.

Microsoft is trying to expand its small market share worldwide with cheaper devices. To do that, it has cut manufacturing costs. For instance, camera and control buttons on many models can now be tapped on the screen rather than being physical buttons on the frame.

Despite the low cost, Microsoft said the new phone will offer the same Microsoft services that high-end phones do. That includes Skype video calls, Office apps and the virtual assistant Cortana.

News that makes sense

Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

As is common with phones for emerging markets, Microsoft is making a version with slots for two SIM cards so that people can switch between service providers more easily. In such markets, rates vary so much that many people have multiple accounts to take advantage of the best deals.

The Lumia 535 is expected to go on sale this month. Microsoft didn't announce any US plans.


Get SBS News straight to your inbox

Sign up now for daily news from Australia and around the world. You can also subscribe to Insight's weekly newsletter for in-depth features and first-person stories.

By subscribing, you agree to SBS’s terms of service and privacy policy including receiving email updates from SBS.

Follow SBS News

Download our apps

Listen to our podcasts

Get the latest with our News podcasts on your favourite podcast apps.

Watch on SBS

SBS World News

Take a global view with Australia's most comprehensive world news service

Stream now

Watch the latest news videos from Australia and across the world