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Microsoft rolls out a basic phone that's big on selfies

The Nokia 230 could be perfect for people in developing markets.

Microsoft

Microsoft today introduced the Nokia 230, a successor to the Nokia 130 from last year. In similar fashion to its predecessor, this new handset is geared toward developing markets as well, featuring a straightforward interface and an affordable $55 price tag. The Nokia 230 does look different than the 130, however, with an aluminum back cover that gives it a more premium look. Spec-wise, don't expect to be blown away, since the device isn't designed to compete with the iPhones of the world. You'll find a 2.8-inch QVGA (320 x 240) display, a 2-megapixel front camera (because selfies are important) and support for up to 32GB of external storage (via microSD). There's also a dual-SIM model, appropriately named the Nokia 230 Dual SIM, for people who swap phones or networks often.

Although some could refer to the Nokia 230 as a "dumbphone," the device is actually capable of handling many familiar services, including Facebook, Twitter, Bing Search, MSN Weather and Opera's data-saving Mini Browser. Microsoft's bringing the Nokia 230 and Nokia 230 Dual SIM to India, Asia and the Middle East in December, while other undisclosed places around the world will get it sometime next year.