With every other manufacturer focusing on mid range and high end Smartphones, Microsoft seems to be taking another root by focusing on the low end market. Focusing on the ‘forgotten market’ seems to be working fine for Microsoft as the company seems to be investing more on it.
Just last month, Microsoft introduced the Lumia 435 and Lumia 532 that stood out as being the cheapest Lumia Smartphones at the time. This has all changed with the Lumia 430 Dual SIM Smartphone that was announced today. The indicated price for this Smartphone is around $70 (around Ksh 6,500) before taxes and subsidies. Expect this price to be between Ksh 7,000 and 9,000 when the device gets to Kenya.
Focusing on the low-end part of the market is part of Microsoft’s strategy to bring the best Smartphone experience to the low end market segment.
The Lumia 430 Dual SIM will come preloaded with Windows 8.1 and the Lumia Denim update. Those who buy this Smartphone will be able to upgrade to Windows 10 when it is available. This is one part that I like about Windows Phone, even those with Low end devices are able to enjoy the latest updates.
Below are some of the specifications of the Lumia 430
| Operating system | Widows Phone 8.1 with Lumia Denim |
| Display | 4-inch WVGA (800 x 480, 15:9), 235 PPI |
| Battery | 1500 mAh replaceable |
| Processor | 1.2 GHz dual-core Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ 200 processor |
| Main camera | 2 MP, Fixed focus |
| Front-facing camera | VGA 0.3 MP |
| Memory | 8 GB + 30 GB OneDrive***, MicroSD up to 128 GB |
| Dimensions | 120.5 x 63.19 x 10.63 mm 127.9g |
As you can see, these specifications are good considering the price. The Lumia 430 will be available in bright orange and black. Expect to see this phone as from next month (April).
In addition, when buying the Lumia 430, you will be getting some few extra benefits we have come to associate Microsoft with. These are seamless Skype connectivity that allows you to turn any voice call into a Skype call. You will also get Microsoft Office preinstalled and 30GB of free One Drive storage.
Keep it here to be updated when the phone launches in Kenya.