Nokia expands Asha Touch range to offer 90% more efficient mobile browsing

Compared to conventional browsers, both Ashas enable up to 90% more efficient mobile browsing and faster access to rich web applications.

The new phones are Nokia's most affordable capacitive touchscreen devices to date, offering users a fluid 'swipe' user interface and an open environment for third-party application development.

The Nokia Asha 309 represents the single SIM variant with WiFi, while the Nokia Asha 308 is a dual SIM device which allows users to switch between multiple SIM cards without having to switch their phone off.

"Our innovative Asha Touch family of devices is designed for people who want a great smartphone experience with lower running costs," said Timo Toikkanen, executive vice president, Mobile Phones, Nokia. "By introducing the Nokia Asha 308 and Nokia Asha 309, we're expanding our affordable smartphone lineup and bringing new mobile experiences to more people," he added.

Nokia also introduced extensions to its Xpress Browser Internet platform. It represents the only cloud-based web browser to support web apps in the mold of Nokia Nearby web - an application which helps people discover new places and locations. Additionally, the new web-based tool Nokia Xpress Web App Builder makes it easier for developers to build new applications.

"Nokia's Asha Touch family delivers all the core smartphone experiences, and with the new software developer kit, provides ever-increasing flexibility for developers to build compelling new experiences for consumers," said Will Stofega, Mobile Phone Programme Director, IDC.

The phones are equipped with 40 premium EA games, social features such as standalone Facebook and Twitter clients, the Nokia Messaging Service, and video streaming through the browser from sites such as YouTube - a first within the Asha Touch range.