Microsoft launches old legendary ‘plain Jane’ Nokia phone

If you thought the old legendary Nokia had passed away into the other world, this news might cheer you. In these times of smartphones where our phones have become much more than mere calling and messaging tool, Microsoft’s decision to launch a ‘plain Jane’ kind of phone under Nokia brand is a bit surprising and strange.

Microsoft, which is selling off its phone division to Foxconn, has announced a brand new Nokia 216 Dual SIM handset that packs a 2.4-inch QVGA screen, so don’t expect to enjoy any HD games or movies. For pictures, you get a 0.3 Megapixel camera on the front and back.

The device supports 2.5G and comes in single and dual-SIM varieties. Features included are a torch, FM radio, and MP3 and video players. Seems like we have rewinded two decades back.

But there is some entertainment stuff as well. The phone does offer Facebook and the Opera Mini web browser to install games.

The mobile phone is available in black, grey and blue, and is crafted with a polycarbonate shell that is built to last, Microsoft said, adding that it has an "outstanding" battery life that will keep users connected for longer. The phone offers a standby time of 19 days, supports 18 hours of continuous voice conversation, and 47 hours of music playback.

A good option perhaps as a backup phone.

The Nokia 216 that will be available in India from October 24, at Rs. 2495 could well also find acceptance among people as a souvenir of their old fond memories with Nokia.