HFCL Infotel announced the launch of its CDMA-based Ping branded mobile phones which are priced at Rs 499.

"Our aim is to make telephony available to people in all walks of life," said G. D. Singh, COO, HFCL Infotel Ltd.

The initial scheme offers the handset for Rs 499 with a prepaid connection available in recharge options of Rs. 151, Rs. 201 or Rs. 251. Local calls will be charged at 1 paisa per second and STD calls at Rs.1.50 per minute.