Orange launches disposable handset

Tue Jul 15 2008, 14:50 PM

French telco Orange is launching a one-time-use mobile phone in partnership with plastic manufacturer BIC and handset maker Alcatel-Lucent. The new handset, designed to sell at convenience stores, stations and airports, will come with a pre-installed SIM card and 60 minutes of traffic, which users will be able to extend by buying Orange's top-up vouchers. The carrier has suggested a EUR49 (USD77) price tag for the handset, which will support voice calls, text messaging and FM radio.

Deal Details

The idea behind the product is to offer a ready-to-use, inexpensive handset using the BIC brand, known for disposable pens, razors and lighters. However, customers will need to call Orange and register in order to use all their traffic time and their SIM card will be disabled after one year from activation. The BIC Phone will reach the French market after the summer, but Orange has not disclosed whether it will launch abroad.