Aspera Mobile releases simple new phones for customers to stay connected after the 3G shutdown

With the shutdown of the 3G networks looming, Aspera Mobile has launched two affordable and easy-to-use phones to ensure customers have a connection to loved ones and emergency services after the 3G closure.

Aspera Mobile has introduced the F50 flip phone ($99) and the F48 candy bar device ($69).

Vodafone has already shut down its 3G network with Telstra to follow in June and Optus in September.

This means customers with older phones will need to upgrade to a device that can connect to not only 4G networks but also with emergency services.

These devices are suitable for 3G upgrade options for customers who don’t want to get caught out after the 3G shutdown.

“At Aspera we understand that some people want to keep it simple and not everyone needs all the functionality of a smartphone, nor the distractions that can come with being permanently connected,” Aspera MD Allan Robertson explained.

“For these people, phones that are simple and easy to use are the best way forward and those two features are perfectly embodied by the F50 and F48.”

Aspera Mobile ensured the F50 and F48 products met key market requirements including 4G connectivity, ease-of-use and value for money.

They are ideal for customers who want to keep things simple to make and receive calls and send and receive text messages.

The F50 is a flip phone that comes with its own charging cradle and a one-touch SOS call button.

The device has indicators on the front panel which show when a call or message is coming through and when the phone is charging.

There is also a handy torch on board and a simple 2-megapixel camera to capture basic images and videos.

The F50 is available in 2 colours – red and midnight blue- and each has a soft touch feel.

“The charging cradle is a real bonus particularly for those less dexterous as it offers the convenience of a permanent location to place the phone for charging,” Robertson said.

“The SOS button could be a real lifesaver as one push of that button will place an emergency call and send a text to a series of pre-defined numbers, which gives great comfort and peace of mind for older people living alone.”

The F48 is a candy bar phone which includes a 2.4 inch display and a physical number pad and navigation keys.

“With our 4G range there is a model for everyone who still wants to keep and use a more basic style of phone when upgrading from 3G,” Robertson added.

“That said, we still purposely offer choice, excellent value for money, attractively designed phones and features that satisfy users looking at a simpler style of phone throughout the range.

“The F50 and F48 continue in the theme that Aspera has built its business on over the last 10 years in this market – best value for money propositions, attractive styling and design with an understanding of matching and exceeding user requirements.

“We know parents, grandparents and even great grand grandparents will be more than happy with these phones and that’s why we made them.”

The $69 F48 and $99 F50 are available now from Big W, Mobileciti, Mobile Experts, Retravison and convenience stores around the country.

ASPERA MOBILE F50 SPECIFICATIONS

– 4G and 3G Connectivity

– 2.4″ display

– 2.0MP rear camera

– Messaging SMS and MMS

– 1000mAh battery

– Bluetooth 4.0

– FM Radio

– Loudspeaker

– Micro SD card to 32GB Maximum

ASPERA MOBILE F48 SPECIFICATIONS

– 4G and 3G Connectivity

– 2.4″ display

– 0.3MP rear camera

– Messaging SMS and MMS

– 1000mAh battery

– Bluetooth 5.1

– FM Radio

– Loudspeaker

– Micro SD card to 32GB Maximum