Vodafone launches handset at Rs.809 in Delhi

Cellular services provider Vodafone Essar Monday said it has launched here a low-cost handset at Rs.809 to make mobile phones accessible to the rural millions.

The company said it would roll out the phone, Vodafone 150 (VF 150), in other parts of India over the next few days.

"The cost of the handset can be a significant barrier for people in accessing and benefiting from the mobile revolution. At the price point of VF 150, many more people will become part of the connected world," said Sanjay Warke, the company's chief executive officer.

Telephone penetration has remained low in rural India.

Vodaphone said the handset will enable customers to avail voice and text-based services.

Vodafone Essar is the Indian subsidiary of UK-based Vodafone Group. It has over 100.85 million subscribers in India.