Strength, flexibility drive rush for new Google-backed FreetelICE 2 Android phone
Few days after leading telecoms giant, MTN and Sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest mobile device distributor, TD Mobile, unveiled the Google-backed AndroidTM smartphone, Freetel ICE 2 in Nigeria, early buyers of the device have described as the best in terms of user friendliness and power.
Some of the users who spoke to our correspondent said they are now convinced that the device is designed for the Nigerian market.
The ICE 2 smartphone is one of many devices from the stable of Freetel, Japan’s largest selling smart phone brand in open market.
The device is designed in the state-of-the-art design center in Tokyo, Japan while manufacturing is overseen by Japanese engineers with over 40 years of experience. In addition, the device is Google GMS certified confirmation that it meets Google’s performance requirements and properly runs the Google Apps. Book lovers will also be thrilled by the ICE 2 which comes pre-loaded with World reader’s free e-library of 50,000 e-books, which enables Nigerians to read their favourite book at no cost.
The smartphone will sell for about N13,000 ($35), an attractive price-point that is expected to deepen the pace of smartphone penetration in the country.
Powered by Google’s most recent Android operating system – Android 7.0, the revolutionary ICE 2 comes fully equipped with the latest software and security updates including Google Play Protect; a newly-developed software which continuously works to keep one’s device, data and apps safe. In addition, the smartphone is pre-loaded with MTN’s latest apps including MTN Music Plus.
In his remarks, MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Rahul De, said “We are excited by this partnership because our focus over the years has been on connecting millions of Nigerians to each other and the world, thus expanding access to information, entertainment and endless opportunities. The affordable and innovative ICE 2 takes us further along this journey, allowing more Nigerians make the transition to smartphones.”
Massive incentives await the first 200 subscribers to get the Freetel ICE 2. In addition, all customers who buy the device will also enjoy double data bonus on every data bundle they buy for three months, courtesy of MTN.
On its part, Google’s Head of Nigeria for Android Partnerships, Adama Diallo emphasized: “We have been truly impressed by the quality of the Freetel ICE 2 at this price point. We are excited to continue working with ecosystem partners like Freetel, TD & MTN to offer Android devices at every price point and connect more Nigerians to the internet.”
In her address, Managing Director of TD Mobile, Mrs. Gozy Ijogun disclosed that the launch of the FreetelICE 2 is a testimony to the company’s landmark strides in making ICT products and devices accessible, affordable and usable across Africa.
According to her, “Since inception, TD Mobile has been the leading driver of smart devices penetration in the West African sub-region”.
“The launch of the FreetelICE 2 resonates with our mission of spear-heading a technology revolution in Africa and further shows why we have remained in the forefront of bringing the best and latest technology products to the sub-region. Through the strategic partnerships with our massive network of operators, dealers and retailers, we are sure to see the ICE 2 Android smartphone in the hands of millions of Nigerians in no time,” she enthused.
In a brief comment, the Chairman, Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh averred that “When you are looking for partnerships; go all out and partner with the best.”
In attendance was a host of dignitaries including former Executive Vice-Chairman, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, Chairman, Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh; Chairman, Board of Directors, Technology Distributions Ltd., Prof. Anya O. Anya; representatives of Corporate Nigeria and bank CEOs; representatives of partner organizations MTN, Google, TD Mobile, sub-dealers and other stakeholders from the ICT eco-system.
The ICE 2 is already sale nationwide and also available at all major online and offline retail stores including MTN’s retail outlets and Yudala.
