Idea launches new dual-SIM 3G smartphone

Idea Cellular, the country's third largest mobile operator, has launched a dual-SIM smartphone, expecting more of its 2G users to upgrade to 3G services.

The new handset, 'Aurus' is an Android 2.3 (Gingerbread) operating system handset with video calling facility and is priced at Rs 7,190.

The other 3G phones in Idea portfolio are ID 918, Idea Blade and ID 280.

The device is being shipped with an 800 Mhz processor, 3.5-inch multi-touch screen display and cloud backup functionality. With its large, bright screen, it is the perfect device for watching movies and playing games, and the built-in music player with supplied in-ear headphones offer excellent sound quality.

The handset packs a 5 megapixel primary camera (using software interpolation), along with a front camera to support video calls allowing users to not only talk but see the person live in real-time.

''3G is becoming an enabler in smaller towns which don't have good broadband access. Deep-rooted mobile network and availability of affordable smartphones are making acceptance and adoption of 3G services faster in Tier II and III towns. The new Aurus will offer key 3G features like video calling which will be a new experience for users of all age groups, especially the youth and working professionals, who want to own high-end, feature rich smartphones but find them unaffordable,'' Idea Cellular Chief Marketing Officer Sashi Shankar said.

Idea has witnessed rapid uptake of its 3G smartphones, especially in semi-urban and rural markets of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh among others. It had already sold more than 1.5 lakh handsets.