Imaging giant Kodak is about to enter the smartphone market when it launches its new Android smartphone at the Consumer Electronics Show 2015 in Las Vegas in January.
The mobile device, offering “offering best-in-class image management software and features along with great design and UI,” is a joint effort between Eastman Kodak Company and British mobile phone and consumer electronics company Bullitt Group Ltd.
According to Bullitt, the smartphone is aimed at people who are seeking a high-end experience but are not always comfortable using complicated mobile devices.
The new smartphones and tablets will be pre-loaded with bespoke image capture, management and sharing features. Bespoke means custom-made or tailor made, i.e., made according to customer spec.
Friends and family will be able to provide help and support through a pre-installed remote management system.
Mr. Schulte believes there is a sizable market niche for the new smartphone.
Bullitt Mobile’s CEO, Oliver Schulte, said:
“Kodak is one of the world’s most recognizable brands. It is trusted by consumers as a marque of quality and innovation. We’ve taken that heritage and used it to inspire a range of beautifully designed devices that will let users take great pictures and edit, share, store and print them in an instant.”
The two companies say they will not compromise on design and user experience as they aim for this target audience. They believe their range of products will stand out in a market segment that is hitherto under-served.
Mr. Schulte added:
“Delivering simplicity without compromise, these devices will address a segment of the mobile device market that has been poorly served to date. By giving customers easy access to printing and sharing services while still offering the latest Android OS and features found on high-end smartphones, we will appeal to a large audience of users who value ease of use and stylish design as highly as they value functionality.”
Kodak’s Vice President of Brand Licensing, Eileen Murphy, said regarding her company’s joint venture with Bullitt:
“We are impressed with Bullitt Group’s commitment to delivering a portfolio of products that embrace the quality and innovation that our brand is known for around the world.”