Nokia announces $30 handset and four other emerging market devices

Nokia 1280

Nokia 1616

Nokia 1800

Nokia 2220

Nokia 2690

Nokia has announced five affordable new cell phones for emerging markets, including the manufacturer's cheapest phone ever, the Nokia 1280, which costs only 20 EUR (US$30). The company also launched the Nokia 1616, 1800, 2220 and 2690 handsets, all targeted at markets where cell phone penetration is low.

At only 20 EUR, the Nokia 1280 comes packed with a variety of features. Users can use a flashlight built into the handset, listen to FM radio, and can store phonebooks for five different users - for easy phone sharing. The handset also claims 22 days battery life on account of its low-resolution monochrome display. The 1280 additionally features a dust-proof body.

The Nokia 1616 includes a color display with similar features, like a flashlight, FM radio, and dust resistance, all for 24 EUR (US$35). For 2 EUR more, 26 EUR (US$38), users can purchase the Nokia 1800, an attractive phone considering its price. The 1800 comes bundled with a headset for listening to the device's radio or taking calls. It also includes a powerful 22-day standby battery life with a color display.

The Nokia 2220 is an affordable slider phone that brings support for Ovi Mail, MMS, and a 1,000-person address book. Users can snap photos with the 2220's VGA camera, too. The device is priced at 45 EUR (US$67). Finally, the Nokia 2690, at 54 EUR (US$80), is a great looking device that offers 2GB of internal memory, an FM radio, and a 3.5mm audio jack for whatever you decide to listen to.

All of the devices are bundled with Nokia Life Tools, which helps improve the lives of people in rural, emerging markets. The app provides crop prices, education tools, and entertainment all delivered by SMS. Each device is expected to be available by the first half of the year.