Business | Technology
Multimedia mobile phones gaining popularity
Cellphones offer functionalities of portable single-purpose devices enabling users to use and share digital content
- By Naushad K. Cherrayil, Senior Sub-Editor
- Published: 23:21 August 18, 2008
Dubai: Content digitalisation and internet services are changing the world as people expect immediate access to entertainment and information today, whether to purchase content, communicate or participate in web 2.0 communities, a top official said.
"Mobile devices are becoming a popular platform - the 'fourth screen' - for people to enjoy digital content and share their experiences. High-end mobile phones have evolved into multimedia computers that offer the functionalities of many portable single-purpose devices [camera, music player, pocket computer, GPS and more] in a multi-purpose converged device that is always with you and always connected," Tala Toukan, Communications Manager of Nokia, Lower Gulf, Middle East and North Africa, said.
Nokia is expanding into offering services and software that empower and enable Nokia device owners to fully realise the benefits of mobility.
"According to our consumer research, making phone calls represents only 12 per cent of the time a Nokia N-series owner uses the device during the day - the remaining 88 per cent of the time is spent on other activities [music, photos, browsing, email, and messaging].
"We expect this trend to expand as advanced devices become more affordable in emerging markets," Toukan said.
Nokia today offers a range of internet services with the introduction of Ovi. The core principles of Ovi are to empower and enable owners to realise the full potential of the internet, with services that include music, navigation and games.
"As we work on rolling-out Ovi services across the world, we are continually ensuring that these services are delivered to Nokia users in the region in a manner that is relevant and easy to access. Our maps service today covers all the Gulf countries. Voice guided-navigation is available in over 30 languages, which can be used to navigate anywhere in the world, he said.
Recently Nokia has announced the launch of a range of mobile applications and content tailored for Ramadan.
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