Samsung will launch a new low-cost mobile phone, the Samsung Chief Hero, for users in Africa in early September 2012
The phone will be equipped with a GPRS Smart dual-SIM and has, according to the company, been designed to fit needs of cost-sensitive users.
Jaco van Zyl, product manager of HHP Business Group at Samsung Africa, said, “After the launch of our chief range earlier this year, we have seen that there is a need for mobile phones that suit the unique needs of developing countries and, more importantly, Africa.
“The Samsung Chief Hero mobile phone is a Smart dual-SIM phone that is targeted at these markets,” he added.
Research has shown that a significant percentage of mobile phone users in Africa carry multiple SIM cards to take advantage of several pricing plans on offer from various operators.
By allowing users to automatically switch between two SIM cards without having to carry an additional handset or turn off the phone to swap a SIM, Samsung has said it would help users meet a critical need. The new phone’s Smart Dual SIM technology will allow both SIM cards to be active and ‘always on’.
The Samsung Chief Hero will support GPRS dual band technology and feature a 1000mAh battery. It will also allow an 11-hour talk time and 550 hours of standby time.
Zyl added, “With the Dual-SIM Always On functionality, a user will never miss a call. Couple this with the 1.8” TFT screen, MP3, and FM Radio, the Samsung Chief Hero will keep users always in touch wherever they go.”
The phone will also support an additional 13 languages, including Yoruba, Swahili and Igbo.
“Whether users want to take advantage of different calling plans or want to keep their business and personal calls separate, Always On Smart dual-SIM handsets will provide the convenience of two cell phones with one-mobile solution. There is a perception that low-cost mobile phones are not reliable. The Chief Hero is not only cost-effective and reliable, but it is also durable and has great battery life,” van Zyl concluded.
