Samsung lines up 8-10 smartphones

After launching two new smartphones Samsung Wave and Galaxy S recently, Samsung plans to launch 8-10 smartphones in India soon. The company also plans to continue launching affordable handsets in the Indian market.

"We recently launched two new smartphones in the Indian market last month. We plan to launch three more handsets on the Bada platform this year and are looking at a total line-up of 8-10 smartphones. We expect a market share of 20 per cent in the smartphones category this year. Our current handset line-up is priced from Rs. 1,600 – 40,000 and we will continue to develop the brand to suit all price points," said Ranjit Yadav, Director- IT Business at Samsung India.

Currently, Samsung, is focused on addressing the mobility needs of varied consumer segments and believes 3G will be a key driver for mobility in India. "We are offering Indian consumers a wide portfolio of around 17 handsets at present that are 3G enabled across price points between Rs 3900/- upwards. 3G handsets will be contributing around five per cent of the total handsets sold by Samsung and we are aiming it to double within a year," Yadav added.

Samsung expects 3G services to give a strong boost to the touch screen segment as data downloads/video downloads require large high resolution screens and provide an enriched consumer experience. "We expect 3G services to also give a strong boost to the touch screen segment since data downloads/video downloads will require large, high resolution touch devices with easier user interface. Further, as we make a strong foray into applications, the onset of 3G services will provide the necessary eco system to enrich the consumers' experience of these applications and their mobiles. The coming in of 3G will herald a new era in the booming telecom industry of India. 3G will provide bandwidth to enable customers enjoy better quality of service and a richer end user experience which will have a defining impact on mobility consumption patterns and drive the use of content-rich applications.," Yadav added.

Samsung has recently launched - Star Nano 3G, an affordable 3G full touch handset. Priced at Rs. 7320 and positioned as 'My first 3G phone', Star Nano 3G is designed for youth who want to explore the whole new 3G world . The phone has advanced connectivity with 384kbps DL/UL (3G ready), Pop Up SNS and fast multimedia downloads. The Touchwiz 2.0 Plus in the phone ensures seamless navigation home screen widgets, gesture control and an interesting UI.