Mobile phones expected this year

Mobile phones are not just communication tools; they have become a status symbol for many. People these days look for mobile phones with advanced technology supporting newer applications. These days consumers in Nepal get the latest gadgets within days of their launch in the international market.

According to people involved in mobile phone business, customers start enquiring about the new models once they are launched in the international market.[break]

Companies dealing on mobile phones have been launching new phones to meet the demand from these people. International Marketing Services (IMS) – the authorized distributor for Samsung mobile phones in Nepal – introducing latest offerings from South Korean electronics giant in Nepal within a few weeks of their launch in the international market.

Dikesh Malhotra, president of IMS, said the company will focus on Android phones this year. “We will launch Samsung Galaxy Grand this month. Similarly, we will be introducing Samsung Rex 70 and Rex 60 soon,” said Malhotra.

According to Malhotra, customers can get Samsung Galaxy S4 by the end of April and Galaxy Note III by the end of this year.

Another leading mobile phone manufacturer is not far behind when it comes to launching new products. Nokia is introducing new phones in Asha and Lumia series this year. Local distributor of Nokia plans to introduce Nokia Lumia 620, 820 and 920 powered by Windows 8 in the Nepali market very soon.

CG Impex – the authorized distributor of LG mobile phones in Nepal – will also focus on Android phones this year. “We will introduce around nine models of Android phones in Nepal this year. LG Optimus G will be available in the market by the end of February,” said Ramesh Shrestha, general manager of CG Impex.

Lately, Indian mobile phone brands are increasing their market share in Nepal. Micromax, Karbonn, Colors, Spice and Lava are launching new phones this year.

CG Impex, which bagged Lava dealership, plans to launch 5-6 models of Lava phone this year. Allied Trade Link International recently introduced Karbonn A21 and A 30 in the Nepali market. Similarly, Teletalk – the authorized distributor of Colors mobile for Nepal -- recently unveiled two new Android phones -- X Factor Bold and X Factor Shine -- in the Nepali market.

Mobile phone dealers are mostly focusing on Android phones as the popularity of these phones is growing due to their user-friendly functionalities, open source nature which allows designers to develop applications and distribute freely on web, availability of numerous applications and multi-tasking functions, among others.

Dealers expect smartphones to replace feature phones within the next few years as they are competitively priced and come with loads of attractive features.

Smartphones start from Rs 7,000 in the Nepali market.