MTS launches three Android smartphones

Amid uncertainty about the future of its operations, Sistema Shyam TeleServices (SSTL) today expanded its handset portfolio with the launch of three new Android-based smartphones.

SSTL, whose 21 licences are among those cancelled by the Supreme Court in the 2G spectrum case, offers CDMA telephony services under the MTS brand name. The company's licences are valid till September 7 and to continue its operations, it will have to participate in auctions to secure fresh licences.

The handsets, in the price range of ₹ 5,499 to ₹ 7,499, run on Android 2.3 Gingerbread and would come bundled with unlimited data plans options. 'With the launch of these three smartphones, we have now brought four new Android Smartphones in less than two months.

MTS now offers a comprehensive range of Android smartphones for discerning, on the move, tech savvy youth,' SSTL Chief Marketing and Sales Officer Leonid Musatov said in a statement.

SSTL will also offer free access to MTS TV for 1 month from date of activation to its smartphone users.

The launch of these smartphones will be supported by an integrated communication programme that includes leveraging Out-of-Home (OOH) media, TV commercials, digital media and road shows in key cities across India.

SSTL is a venture, involving equity participation by Russia's Sistem, the Government of Russian Federation and the Shyam Group of India. It has over 16 million subscribers in the country.