Vodafone Launches Solar Powered Mobile Phone for Rural India

Vodafone has launched solar-powered mobile handset VF 247. Priced at Rs, 1500, the phone is apt for rural India and will be available next month onwards.

VF 247 offers basic functions like Torch, FM radio, a prepaid balance indicator making it a great utility for rural population. The phone boasts of Sun Boost, an inbuilt hardware and software that ensures the phone charges under normal daylight also.

Companies like Micromax clock 80% of mobile sales from Rural India and Nokia recently announced taking the microfinance route to sell mobiles in rural parts of the country.

Some of other interesting projects aimed at Rural India

• Cycle lovers Rejoice – Nokia launches Bicycle Charger Kit [Boon for Rural India?]
• Agrocom – QnA Service meets Rural India
• Vortex – Solar Powered ATM for Rural India
• Nokia enters Dual SIM Phone Market with C2

Recommended Market Research : What Rural India Wants? A Reliable Phone, Privacy Control and Direct Communication]