We previously heard a rumor that Nokia smartphones would be launching in 2016. The news apparently came from Nokia’s China president, who recently commented that the company would get back into the smartphone business in 2016.
At the moment, Nokia is not allowed to release any Nokia smartphones until the fourth quarter of 2015. This restriction is a result of the sale of their mobile phone business to Microsoft. The agreement between Nokia and Microsoft included a non-compete clause that prevents Nokia from entering the smartphone market until the specified period has elapsed.
Nokia’s Official Statement
Nokia has now released a statement clarifying their position on the matter. According to the statement, the company has no plans to re-enter the smartphone market at this time. You can see the statement below:
Nokia notes recent news reports claiming the company communicated an intention to manufacture consumer handsets out of a R&D facility in China. These reports are false, and include comments incorrectly attributed to a Nokia Networks executive.
Nokia reiterates it currently has no plans to manufacture or sell consumer handsets.
This statement from Nokia aims to put to rest any speculation about their immediate return to the smartphone market. However, it is worth noting that the company has not ruled out the possibility of re-entering the market in the future. The non-compete clause with Microsoft only lasts until the end of 2015, which means Nokia could potentially start developing new smartphones in 2016.
Future Prospects for Nokia
While Nokia has officially stated that they have no current plans to manufacture or sell consumer handsets, the landscape of the smartphone market is ever-changing. Nokia’s brand still holds significant value and recognition worldwide, which could be leveraged if they decide to re-enter the market.
In the past, Nokia was known for its robust and reliable mobile phones, which were a staple for many users around the globe. The Nokia 3310, for example, became iconic for its durability and long battery life. If Nokia were to re-enter the smartphone market, they could potentially capitalize on this legacy by offering devices that combine modern technology with the reliability that the brand is known for.
Moreover, the smartphone market has seen a growing trend towards nostalgia, with several companies re-releasing updated versions of classic phones. Nokia could follow this trend by reintroducing some of their classic models with modern features, appealing to both old fans and new customers looking for something different.
Another potential avenue for Nokia could be focusing on emerging markets. Many regions around the world are still experiencing rapid growth in smartphone adoption, and a trusted brand like Nokia could find a receptive audience in these areas. By offering affordable yet reliable smartphones, Nokia could establish a strong presence in these markets.
In conclusion, while Nokia has officially stated that they have no plans to re-enter the smartphone market at this time, the potential for a future comeback remains. The company’s strong brand recognition, combined with the evolving dynamics of the smartphone market, means that Nokia could still have a significant impact if they choose to return. For now, we will have to wait and see what the future holds for Nokia in the ever-competitive world of smartphones.
Source Nokia
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