Microsoft is yet to release the consumer build for its most-awaited Windows 10 OS, but new budget handsets upgradeable to the new OS are already hitting the market. The latest entry in Microsoft's Lumia lineup, the Lumia 540 Dual SIM, offers low-end features but promises an upgrade to Windows 10 Mobile when it is rolled out later this year. Microsoft is apparently betting on this upgrade as a major selling point for its Lumia 540, which does not offer great specs compared to other budget smartphones.
The Lumia 540 Dual SIM is powered by a 1.2GHz quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 200 processor coupled with 1GB RAM and 8GB expandable storage. Taking advantage of its extensive cloud storage, Microsoft is also throwing in additional 30GB of free OneDrive space for buyers. The new mid-ranger sports a 5-inch HD IPS display and packs impressive dual cameras. The primary camera is treated with 8 megapixels with LED flash and a 5MP snapper is available on the front side for selfies.
To power up the phone, Lumia 540 Dual packs a 2,200mAh battery that promises up to 14.8 hours of 3G talk time.
There are exclusive benefits of choosing Windows Phone smartphones, as Microsoft bundles its phones with Office suite, which includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint and OneNote, as well as Outlook and Skype.
To make the handset more appealing to customers, Microsoft is also offering deals such as ₹1,000 cash back on recharges (₹200 cash back per recharge for first four recharges valued at ₹500 or higher, via Ola Money). Also, buyers get 2 months of free subscription to Gaana and "Double Data for 2 Months" offer from Airtel.
Microsoft will bring the Lumia 540 Dual in four colours, Cyan, White, Orange and Matte Black and pre-orders for the device open on Thursday.
