A pair of new smartphones have been unveiled by Nokia. The new smartphones are the result of a partnership between Nokia and Microsoft. The two companies collaborated for eight months with periodic executive meetings in Iceland to manage the project.
The result is two smartphones that target different types of consumers. At a cost of $584.00, the Lumia 800 flat screen device is aimed at high-end users. The more cost effective Lumia 710 priced at $376.00, is aimed at cost conscious consumers. However, if these devices are to be competing with the yet to be released stallions from South-Korea & Cuppertino, the alleged Samsung Galaxy S3 & iPhone 5, then Nokia will still need some Houdini acts to be able to make a chance.
Anyway, experts and Analyst view the partnership between Nokia and Microsoft as something that could help Nokia. Nokia has recently seen a decline in the share of the smartphone market where it trails Apple’s Iphone and Google’s Android phones. Some Analyst are calling this a new start for Nokia. “This helps stop the bleeding and will help Nokia get back in the game.” said Peter Cunningham, an analyst with the research firm Canalys.
The result of the partnership’s finished product was seen immediately as shares of Nokia rose 1 percent in European trading to €4.88 following the announcement. However, some investors point out that Nokia and Microsoft have a long way to go in catching up with Google and Apple. Still, many in the business including network operators, are hoping the partnership will be successful.