Oppo launches phones made for 'selfies'

Mumbai, Jan 28: Banking on India in the current year, Chinese device-maker Oppo Mobiles on Thursday launched several photography-focused models, notably the selfie-driven "F" series, while announcing that it will expand to 35,000 sales outlets in the country by December.

The 4G-enabled F1 comes with a a silk-metal back in golden and rose-gold colours, and has been priced at Rs.15,990. The F1 Plus, which the company says is a high-spec variant and has a more sophisticated camera function, will be available from April.

"By officially announcing our emphasis on 'Camera Phones', Oppo reiterates the focus on mobile camera technology", Sky Li, Oppo global vice president and managing director for International Mobile Business, said at a grand launch event here.

"This also reflects our long-term commitment to the Indian market and grow here."

Explaining the company's focus area for its devices, Oppo officials said smartphones today were taking over as personal cameras which makes this aspect the most important factor for buyers in the future. "Ooop has constantly been focusing on mobile photography."

Speaking about the specs of F1, officials said it features a standout 8 MP front-facing camera with a wide f/2.0 aperture lens and 1/4-inch sensor. It also offers Oppo's patented "Beautify 3.0" feature, that has a screen-flash to make snapping selfies in low-light conditions.

"It can also shoot selfies using hand gestures and spoken commands," said an official, adding that the F1's 13-MP rear camera has a focus time of just 0.1 seconds, and an anti-shake optimisation feature automatic selection of the clearest image from a huge buffer of data.

"We have another surprise for Indian consumers who pursue supreme photography performance. The F1 Plus will be a high-spec variant with 5.5" FHD Screen, a 4GB RAM and an enhanced front camera. This will be available from April for Rs.26,990."

Earlier this month, Oppo renewed its association with actors Hrithik Roshan and Sonam Kapoor to accelerate its campaign in the South Asia Region. It also has a three-year pact with FC Barcelona and with the International Cricket Council in the mobile phone category for four years.

The company says its mobile phones are currently available in over 20 markets and offered for online purchase in over 50 additional countries, with the brand already registered in 140 countries.

IANS