Stories by Olabisi Olaleye

Technology Distribution (TD) Mobile recently unveiled the Google-backed Freetel ICE 2, an  android smartphone.

Chairman, Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, who said partnership with the Japanese manufacturers was a game changer, declared that, “when you are looking for partnerships, go all out and partner with the best.”

Designed for the Nigerian market, the ICE 2 smartphone is one of many devices from the stable of Freetel, Japan’s largest selling smartphone brand.

The device was designed in the state-of-the-art design centre in Tokyo, Japan, while manufacturing was overseen by Japanese engineers with over 40 years of experience. In addition, the device is Google GMS certified, confirmation that it meets Google’s performance requirements and properly runs the Google Apps.  Book lovers will also be thrilled by the ICE 2, which comes pre-loaded with Worldreader’s free e-library of 50,000 e-books, which enables Nigerians to read their favourite book at no cost.

According to MTN’s Chief Marketing Officer, Rahul De: “We are excited by this partnership because our focus over the years has been on connecting millions of Nigerians to each other and the world, thus expanding access to information, entertainment and endless opportunities. The affordable and innovative ICE 2 takes us further along this journey, allowing more Nigerians make the transition to smartphones.”

Also speaking at the event, Managing Director, TD Mobile, Mrs. Gozy Ijogun, noted that the launch of the Freetel ICE 2 was a fitting testimony to the company’s landmark strides in making ICT products and devices accessible, affordable and usable across Africa.

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“Since inception, TD Mobile has been the leading driver of smart devices penetration in the West African sub-region. The launch of the Freetel ICE 2 resonates with our mission of spear-heading a technology revolution in Africa and further shows why we have remained in the forefront of bringing the best and latest technology products to the sub-region. Through the strategic partnerships with our massive network of operators, dealers and retailers, we are sure to see the ICE 2 Android smartphone in the hands of millions of Nigerians in no time,” she said.

On its part, Google’s head of Nigeria for Android partnerships, Adama Diallo, said, “We have been truly impressed by the quality of the Freetel ICE 2 at this price point. We are excited to continue working with ecosystem partners like Freetel, TD and MTN to offer Android devices at every price point and connect more Nigerians to the Internet.”

Similarly, HMD Global also unveiled the Nokia 8 smartphone, designed with content creators in mind.

According to the manufacturer, Nokia 8 brings three world-firsts to Android smartphones, including a debut collaboration with ZEISS optics. With performance and pure Android at its heart, as well as the most advanced aluminium unibody design to date, the Nokia 8 represents all the hallmarks of a true flagship Nokia smartphone.

Nokia 8 is also the first smartphone to feature Nokia OZO Audio, placing exclusive Hollywood technology in the palm of your hand. OZO spatial 360° audio brings a fully immersive audio experience to your 4K video.Leading-edge 360° audio capture ensures the playback lets you truly relive the moment so your memories never fade.

Speaking,General Manager, West, East and Central Africa, HMD Global,Joseph Umunakwe, said:“We know that customers are creating and sharing live content more than ever before, with millions of photos and videos shared every minute on social media. People are inspired by the content they consume and are looking for new ways to create their own. It’s these people who have inspired us to craft a flagship smartphone which perfectly balances premium design, an outstanding experience and powerful performance.” Adding that Nokia 8 will be available in two colours: Polished Blue and Steel.