Nokia Asha 501: the smartest featurephone The Asha 501's software offers a choice of just two main screens homescreens, called "Home" and Fastlane. Nokia says "Home" is a traditional, icon-based view for launching individual apps or accessing a specific feature while Fastlane "is inspired by how people really use their phone. Recently accessed contacts, social networks and apps, unique to each person, are stored and presented in Fastlane. It provides a record of how the phone is used, giving people a glimpse of their past, present and future activity, and helping them multi-task by providing easy access to their favourite features. Nokia says its web browser compresses data by 90 per cent, making the device ideal for those with limited web access or low data packages. Neil Mawston, executive director of Strategy Analytics, said "Nokia has surpassed expectations of what's achievable in the sub-$100 phone category with a new Asha handset that is unlike any other, with design cues from Lumia and a mix of features, services and affordability that is valued by price-conscious buyers," he said. This is a welcome addition to the market and a refreshing option for consumers looking to upgrade from feature phones. Apps from EA Games, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter will be available on the Asha platform. Nokia claims the standby time for the 501 could theoretically run to 48 days. A 3.2MP camera is included and a dual SIM option is also available. The talk time is up to 17 hours. UK pricing has not yet been announced.