Grameenphone has partnered with Micromax and Lava to launch Cobranded Micromax Q354 and re-launch the Cobranded Lava Iris 505 in the market, pursuing their aim of bringing affordable smartphones in the hands of the Bangladeshi people.
The two devices were launched in a ceremony at a local hotel, following the success of their previously launched co-branded smartphones. It marks the increase in adoption of smartphones due to the wide internet coverage throughout the country.
Dr. Shahjahan Mahood, Chairman of BTRC launched the smartphones in the presence of Yasir Azman, CMO, Grameenphone, Sameer Kakar, Vice President & Head – International Business, Micromax, and Md. Zohorul Haque Biplob, Chief Operating Officer of Grameen Distribution Ltd.
Speaking on the occasion Dr. Mahmood said, “By introducing these affordable smartphones Grameenphone takes another step towards the implementation of Digital Bangladesh.”
The Micromax Q354 flaunts a 5.0” display, a 1.3 GHz Quad Core processor, and boasts “freedom of storage” with its 8 GB ROM paired with a 1 GB RAM. With a 5 MP rear and 2 MP front camera, it promises an amazing camera experience with a DY-tone LED Flash, and beauty features like smile detection, Gesture photo, Face detection, Face beauty mode, etc. Run by Android 6.0, with a 2200 mAh Li-ion battery ensuring continuous service all day long, the phone is priced at only BDT 3,999. It comes with a free back cover, screen protector and will be available with 2 magnificent colors- Midnight Blue and Silver.
The popular Lava Iris 505 packs a 4.0” TFT WVGA Screen, a 1.3 GHz Dual Core processor, a 4 GB ROM coupled with a 512 MB RAM, a 2 MP rear and a 2 MP front camera, and a 1400 mAh Lithium-ion battery. The phone will be available at an attractive price point of BDT 2,945.
Both the phones are 3G, EDGE, and WiFi enabled and come in metallic design with engrossed GP logo. While the phones are having 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, customers will get a 15-day Early Life Failure whereby if any device is identified faulty within 15 days of purchase, the customer will get a new smartphone as a replacement. They will also get 1.5 GB internet free (with 7 days validity) and an attractive ”Buy 50 minute @ BDT 29 and get 1GB internet Free” offer with both the purchases. Customers can avail this offer 12 times in 6 months.The handsets will have a 1-year warranty from respective manufacturers and promise to have sturdy and durable build.
Yasir Azman, Deputy CEO and Chief Marketing Officer of Grameenphone, during the launching ceremony, remarked that “The number of smartphone and mobile internet users in Bangladesh are increasing at a rapid pace every day. Grameenphone’s network now covers over 99% of the population of Bangladesh, which means that people all over the nation can access the internet. In order to facilitate their access to the digital sphere and make their lives more convenient in the process, we are launching these two smartphones which not only boast excellent performance but also come at affordable prices.”
Commenting on the launch, Sameer Kakar, Vice President & Head – International Business, Micromax said, “Micromax aims to extend and solidify its presence internationally and Bangladesh is a key market for us. We are confident that Q354 would help in catering the need of our consumers. Through this partnership with Grameenphone, we are confident that consumers will have a complete experience of the device”
In this grand event, Md. Zohorul Haque Biplob, Chief Operating Officer of Grameen Distribution Ltd. (authorized Distributor of Lava International Ltd.) said, “Lava International Ltd. focuses on design, R&D, Production and global brand promotion of smartphone. Lava is dedicated to establishing an International Premium Brand in Bangladesh. In this journey Lava and GDL is happy to tie up with Grameenphone, the largest operator of Bangladesh. Lava Iris 505 is also the most lucrative Smartphone and we are confident that Lava Iris 505 will create the highest traction in the market in this price point.”
The smartphones will be available at Grameenphone Centers, Grameenphone Express Shops, Grameenphone retail outlets all over Bangladesh, and online at GP Shop.