Nokia’s Performance in the First Half of 2008
New Generation, Nokia Mobile Phones
Ever since the advent of mobile phones, Finland’s conglomerate, Nokia, has enjoyed pedestal position among all mobile phone brand players, not just in any particular country but throughout the world. Today, Nokia enjoys more brand loyalty than any other brand of mobile phones in virtually every market where they have presence. The immense popularity of Nokia mobile phones can be attributed to three major factors – easy, user-friendly handling, quality network reception and most importantly, their sturdy durable construction
In the initial stage of the mobile phone boom, the Nokia handset had a distinct edge over its nearest rivals owing to the ease of its use versus the comparatively complicated handsets of the latter. Added to this was the similarity in navigation between all Nokia handsets which made it hassle free for users when changing from one Nokia to another. However, as users became more acquainted with the different features and functions of their handsets, new players introduced handsets equipped with more and better features at a price noticeably lower than Nokia mobile phones. To counterbalance the entry and introduction of new brand players and their more advanced handsets, Nokia introduced the highly acclaimed, target specific, new handsets – the E series for the business user segment, the N series for multimedia user enthusiasts and the L’Amour collection targeting the fashion conscious segment.
The first half of 2008 witnessed the introduction of some of the most exciting and advanced mobile phones until now. Leading the charge was Nokia’s new super shiny, Symbian-powered N96 model. The N96 Nokia mobile phones are equipped with a 5megapixel camera, an amazing music player, built in GPS and gaming options unprecedented in mobile phones. Looming large is a serious competitor in the all-new, Apple iPhone 3G to be launched later in the year and considered the most anticipated mobile phone ever. The two big Korean brand players, Samsung and LG have also launched the ultra-advanced U900 Soul and the Kf600 Venus respectively. If rumours are to be believed, LG are likely to launch their stunning, Google Android-powered mobile phone sometime this year. To add to the excitement and anticipation, among mobile phone buffs, is the two handsets that the other mega brand player, Sony Ericsson aims to launch – the Xperia X1 with its 3megapixel camera, GPS, full Qwerty keyboard and the state-of-the-art windows Mobile interface. All these features have been packed into a sleek, pseudo-metal body. Perhaps, THE mobile phone of the year will be Sony Ericsson’s Symbian-powered P5 model which is believed to have a 5megapixel camera, full touch screen interface, GPS, Google maps and HSDPA.
Despite the backdrop of threats from other top brand players, a weakening dollar and the worldwide economic slowdown, Nokia still managed to post positive first quarter results but nevertheless observed a 11% drop in its share value. Although, Nokia achieved a 39% market share up from 36% a year ago, it was still down from the 40% market share recorded in the fourth quarter of 2007. Mobile phone industry watchers and Nokia predict that the world handset market is likely to grow by 10% in 2008, however, Nokia believes that in Euro terms, the value of this market will decline. The major factor influencing this decline is the continuing negative impact of the weakened US dollar, the general economic slowdown in the US and possibly a similar economic forecast for Europe. Despite all odds, Nokia mobile phones are expected to retain their leadership position in the dynamic, exciting world of mobile telecommunications in the coming years.
About the Author:Joslene is a mobile phone industry analyst. She works to analyse the effect of low cost mobile phone deals on the UK and global mobile phone industry.
Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Nokia’s Performance in the First Half of 2008