Bringing mobiles to the masses

Firms are now designing handsets and payment systems that work for those who would not normally be able to afford mobile services, reports CNN.

"Telecoms are realizing that $800 for the latest mobile phone handset is just too expensive for the average consumer -- particularly for those in low income countries.

Handset makers are targeting these markets by offering mobile phones which come with only the most basic functions such as voice calls and text. In China, some of the phones are even simpler.

Service providers have also come up with innovative ways to cater to the needs of the low-end consumer, using the text message as a virtual prepaid calling card.

The consumer sends a text message to a number saying they agree to pay, and in return receives a specific amount of airtime.

Smart Communications, the Philippines' biggest mobile phone company, allows people to add as little as 54 cents of airtime to a mobile phone electronically. The trend has spread to India, Indonesia and Thailand -- telecom analysts say China may be next."

emily | 7:52 AM | News, Buzz |
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