Vodafone Announces Ultra-Low Cost Handsets

Vodafone has recently unveiled its first Vodafone-only branded ultra-low cost consumer handsets, the Vodafone 125 and Vodafone 225. The new entry-level mobile phones are aimed specifically at the emerging and developing markets.

The Vodafone 125 and Vodafone 225 are part of Vodafone's strategy to expand access to mobile communications in emerging markets, where mobile technology and networks are often the only viable and cost effective telecommunications service. The handsets are therefore keys to offering a range of services, particularly in rural areas where mobile penetration is often at its lowest. The handsets will have a retail of about $25-$45 (19 -35 euros) depending on the specific model and the local market conditions.

The Vodafone 125 and Vodafone 225 are the first handsets manufactured for Vodafone by China's ZTE Corporation, following a global handset procurement agreement signed between the two companies in December 2006. The handsets operate in GSM 900/1800 networks and are almost identical in functionality, the difference being the display - Vodafone 125 has a black and white screen, while the Vodafone 225 is equipped with a color screen.

"The Vodafone 125 and Vodafone 225 are the first of a range of ultra-low cost handsets which will be manufactured exclusively for Vodafone and its affiliates by ZTE Corporation, "said Jens Schulte-Bockum, Vodafone's Global Director of Terminals." We are delighted that they represent everything that customers have come to expect from Vodafone - high quality and exceptional value for money. We believe that the Vodafone 125 and Vodafone 225 will help enfranchise millions more people across the world, giving them good quality, attractive handsets, with popular features and functionality, at a reasonable price"

Vodafone Romania, Vodafone Egypt and Vodacom (South Africa) will be the first countries to launch the Vodafone 125 and 225 handsets in the next few weeks.