Orange to support launch of first Intel-powered smartphone in UK on June 6 with multi-million pound ad campaign
Orange will launch the first smartphone to use an Intel processor in the UK on June 6 in the shape of own-branded handset the Orange San Diego.
The handset, which was originally called the Santa Clara when it was unveiled at Mobile World Congress in February, will be offered on prepay for £200 plus a £10 top up, with a 250MB per month data allowance free for the first 12 months.
It will also be available on two year contracts for £15.50 per month until July 25.
Orange said the San Diego will be supported by a multi-million pound marketing ad campaign across TV, outdoor, print and online.
The handset features a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, an 8-megapixel camera and a 4.03-inch capacitive touch screen.
It is made by Taiwan-based Gigabyte, a firm better known for producing PC motherboards.
The San Diego’s home screen will feature quick links to an Orange Wednesdays app, a Your Orange app for managing an account and an Orange Gestures app, which allows users to control their phone with on-screen gestures.
Orange UK director of products and devices Paul Jevons said: “We’re proud to be working with such an exciting partner as Intel, and offering our customers the first Orange Intel powered smartphone on the market.
“The San Diego is a great addition to our own-branded device portfolio, and is testament to our heritage in offering consumers great value innovation.”
Intel has long dominated the PC processor market, however most smartphones use processors based on designs from UK firm ARM because they have traditionally provided the better energy efficiency needed for mobile devices.
However, Intel is trying to build market share in mobile devices, and the San Diego is the first smartphone released in Europe to use their new range of more efficient chips.
Intel vice president and mobile and communications group general manager Mike Bell said: “Orange is truly a progressive operator who has its finger on the pulse on its customer base.
“The new Intel-based smartphone exemplifies Orange’s focus on delivering a well executed product to its users, from the quality and feel of industrial design to the overall software and applications experience.”