Samsung Electronics unveils REX series of phones in India

Samsung Electronics said yesterday it has introduced a new “smart” feature phone lineup in India, a move aimed at bolstering its clout in emerging markets.

In a launch event on Thursday in New Delhi, the company unveiled the “REX Series” that consists of four models, Samsung said in a press release. The four devices have 2.8-inch to 3.5-inch displays, with cameras ranging from 1.3 megapixels to 3.2 megapixels, according to Samsung.

While the full-touch phones do not run on the Android platform, users can download apps from the preinstalled “Samsung Apps” function and connect to social media services.Samsung said it plans to expand to Russia, Africa and South America, without elaborating on the schedule.

The REX series comes as global manufacturers are shifting their focus to the low-end segment amid growing market competition. No. 3 handset maker Nokia Oyj has introduced the Asha lineup, while LG Electronics has rolled out the L series for the third-generation market. The global market for feature phones and low-end smartphones is expected to reach 653 million units this year.