14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft has admitted that Windows Phone isn't doing quite well in the United States, but the company is at least willing to challenge Android's and iOS' domination in the country with affordable phones running its own mobile operating system.
Redmond has recently launched the new and very affordable Lumia 530 in the United States, thus trying to give Americans a very cheap Windows Phone device coming with most of its latest features, including the Cortana personal assistant.
The 530, which is currently available from T-Mobile, but can be found on Microsoft's online store and Best Buy, can be purchased in the United States for only $69 (55 euro) without a contract, which kind of makes it the most affordable Windows Phone device currently sold in the country.
Microsoft announced the Lumia 530 in July this year and confirmed a US launch during the same month, but the company officially acknowledged the American debut of the phone in early September.
At that time, Microsoft revealed that Lumia 830, 735 and 530 would also launch in the United States, but no further details were provided at that moment.
Lumia 530 technical specifications
Microsoft's Lumia 530 comes with the very latest Windows Phone 8.1 version and is powered by a quad-core 1.2 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 200, while also boasting 512 MB, 4 GB of storage space, and support for microSD cards with a maximum of 128 GB of space.
The 4-inch display has a resolution of 480x854 px, while the device also includes a 5 MP camera and a 1430 mAh battery that should provide up to 10 hours of talk time in 3G mode.
“Running the latest Windows Phone and packing a robust quad-core processor, the Nokia Lumia 530 is designed for folks who want high-end tech without the high price. It features a bright 4-inch LCD display and a lightweight body that fits in any pocket. And with interchangeable shells, you can pick and choose your color whatever your mood,” Microsoft says.
Windows Phone 8.1 and Cortana also offered
Even though it's the most affordable Windows Phone device on the market, the Lumia 530 also runs WP8.1 and comes with high-end features such as Cortana, the personal assistant, just like its more expensive siblings.
“With Windows Phone 8.1 comes the personal assistant who gets to know you. Smart as a whip, she uses what she’s learned to help you out. Enjoy all the latest Windows Phone 8.1 features, including Word Flow, Wi-Fi Sense, and Live Folders,” Microsoft says in the description of the phone.
Of course, such an affordable phone isn't quite the best option for well-developed markets such as the one in the United State, but Microsoft expects it to sell in high numbers nevertheless.