Smartphone like Freedom 251 would cost ₹2,300, finds telecom ministry
With questions being raised over the promised price of ₹251 for a 3G smartphone by new entrant Ringing Bells, the telecom ministry has found that a device with such specifications would cost about ₹2,300.
With questions being raised over the promised price of ₹251 for a 3G smartphone by new entrant Ringing Bells, the telecom ministry has found that a device with such specifications would cost about ₹2,300.
"The ministry has analysed the issue and it feels that such a device can be manufactured for about ₹2,300," sources said.
However, they refused to say if any action will be taken against the company in the matter.
Earlier this week, Noida-based firm Ringing Bells launched the world's cheapest phone -- Freedom 251 -- priced at ₹251, hogging limelight globally.
Also Read | In pics: Freedom 251, cheapest smartphone rings up trouble
Indian Cellular Association, which represents the handset makers industry in India and has members like Apple, Samsung, Microsoft, Lava and Micromax, had also written to telecom minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.
The body said the bill of material value for a product like this when sourced from the cheapest supply chain cost approximately $40 (₹2,700).
When translated into retail price after addition of applicable duties, taxes and distribution and retail margins, the cost of the product would be at least ₹4,100, it added.
ICA requested the minister to get into the depth of the issue, saying the price could not be below ₹3,500 even after a subsidised sale.
Despite the controversies, the device has continued to grab attention from consumers. Following a heavy demand, Ringing Bells suspended bookings for 24 hours on Thursday. It resumed bookings on Friday.
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