Nokia reaches out to farmers with limited internet access

The world's leading mobile phone maker, Nokia, has launched a message-based information service tailored for Chinese farmers who have limited access to the internet.

The service, called Ovi Life Tools, is the latest move by the Finland-based company that bundles handsets and services. It introduced mapping, navigation, e-mail and music to consumers earlier this year. The service is designed to provide poorly served people with information ranging from health care to agriculture, education and entertainment.

People in rural areas will be able to subscribe to the service for 5 to 8 yuan per month in a package available for two models of low-end handsets. It will also be available for more handsets in future.

'While China's urbanisation is growing rapidly, we believe there is a compelling need to provide mobile solutions in emerging markets, bringing affordable, quality and locally relevant information direct to the consumer,' said Chris Leong, senior vice-president for Greater China, Korea and Japan.

Nokia believes there is a huge market for the new service.

Phil Kemp, vice-president for services in Greater China, said it was an 'ambitious' move given the potential client base and the mainland's policy of developing rural areas.