Nokia C3 Philippines - Price, Specs, Release Date, Photos

After commanding incredibly long lines at its launch in Indonesia during the first week of June, Nokia C3 will finally see release in the Philippines next month.

UPDATE as of July 23, 2010, Media Launch of Nokia C3 in the Philippines will be held on July 30, 2010. This phone should hit store shelves across the archipelago either this week or next week with an SRP of roughly Php 7,295.

Update as of July 28, 2010, Nokia Philippines will be holding a One Day Nokia C3 Promo on July 31, 2010. Get Php 1,000 OFF on your Nokia C3 purchase on that day at participating Nokia Solution Partners nationwide.

Here are some photos from Nokia C3's Indonesian launch courtesy of Nokia Indonesia:







OK. Needless to say, Nokia C3 is now big in our neighbor country. And why not? Selling for only about $100 USD before taxes and subsidies, it's really an affordable messaging and social networking tool.

But the question is 'Will it experience the same level of success in the Philippines?'

My answer: Yes, definitely. And I believe it will even be bigger and more successful here. Why, you ask?

Because...

1. 6 out of 10 Filipinos choose Nokia
2. The Philippines is the texting capital of the world and Nokia C3 is a very good messaging phone.
3. Philippines leads Asia Pacific Region in engagement in social networking websites and Nokia C3 is one of the most affordable handsets to support Wifi, allowing users to always stay connected in their online social hubs.

Specifications

The Nokia C3 is the first device to bring a full QWERTY keyboard to the world's most popular mobile phone operating system - Symbian Series 40. The device is also the first in the range to enable access to social networks directly from the homescreen; View, comment, update your status and share pictures to your favorite social networks such as Facebook and Twitter.

Nokia C3 also comes with Ovi Mail and Ovi Chat, which means that first time users can set up email and chat accounts straight from the handset, without the need for a PC. Other notable features are the Wi-Fi connectivity, a 2 megapixel camera, 2.4 inch screen and support for up 8GB memory card. Nokia C3 is expected to be available in the Philippines by July in a variety of appealing colors, including Hot Pink, Golden White and Slate Grey.

Photos

I had the chance to play with this phone at Nokia Connection 2010. It's not one of the new phones that were announced during the event but since it's relatively new, Nokia included it in the showcase nonetheless.













As you can see in the photos, Nokia C3 dons a sleek and slim form factor -- perhaps as slim as Nokia E71. Its tapered edges give it a well-constructed look while chrome accents on the navigation key, provide a tinge of sophistication.

The phone feels very solid in the hand - like it's just made from one block of carbon fiber.

TP Thoughts:

Keeping in mind that it's an entry-level release, I've got not much to say other than "I'm thoroughly impressed."

I can feel it in the air and taste it in the wind; Nokia C3 will be big in the Philippines. So if you're saving for an affordable full QWERTY phone that supports Wifi and offers a plethora of messaging and social network features, you best wait till July for this one.

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