Vodacom launches the Nokia 2720 flip phone for elderly users, people with impairments

Nokia 2720 flip phone 4G Vodacom South Africa

Vodacom has launched the Nokia 2720, a 4G-enabled flip phone designed for elderly users and those with disabilities, in South Africa.

The network announced the new device on 28 May.

The local launch coincides with Global Accessibility Awareness Day which was observed on 20 May.

In a statement, Vodacom said the 2720 is designed to promote cellular access for those who struggle with communication barriers.

“For more than two decades, Vodacom has been addressing the need for more inclusive technologies by providing products and services that are accessible to all,” said Vodacom’s Principal Specialist of Specific Needs Karen Smit.

“By expanding our portfolio with Nokia, we now offer a device equipped with features that meet the specific communication needs of the elderly or those living with disabilities.”

The Nokia 2720’s local debut comes almost two years after it first debuted overseas in September 2019.

A phone for the elderly and people with disabilities or impairments

Apart from being a feature phone, the Nokia 2720 is aimed at senior citizens and disabled users who struggle with typical smartphones.

Instead of a touchscreen interface, the 2720 offers a large T9 keypad that’s easy to read and use.

The phone features Google Assistant which lets users make calls, ask questions and send messages by simply speaking to it.

In addition, the phone has a built-in emergency button that send an SMS with location details to five contacts. The user can pre-determine and load the contacts they want to message. The phone also stores essential medical information and emergency contacts.

On the lid, users can check notifications and the time on a small 1.3-inch TNT external display. Inside, the phone has a 2.3-inch QVGA display mounted on a hinge above the keypad.

The 2720 uses a Qualcomm 205 Dual Core processor to run KaiOS, a mobile platform based on Linux for feature phones. Despite not being a touchscreen device, the phone supports apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and Google Maps. It offers 512MB of RAM and 4GB of on-board storage.

The phone has a 1 500mAh battery pack which offers up to 30 days of battery life, according to Nokia.

On the back, there is a 2MP camera lens that serves as the phone’s only camera.

You can see a summary of the Nokia 2720’s specs below

  • Display: 2.8-inch QVGA internal display/1.3-inch external
  • Processor: Qualcomm 205 Mobile Platform
  • Battery: 1 500mAh
  • Camera: 2MP main lens
  • Selfie camera: None
  • RAM: 512MB
  • On-board storage: 4GB

Nokia 2720 price in South Africa

The phone is available exclusively at Vodacom and costs R1 549. It is available on prepaid or on a postpaid contract.

For more information, you can visit the Vodacom Specific Needs website.

Feature image: Supplied/Vodacom

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Sam Spiller, Staff Writer
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