BERLIN, March 18 — As of today, EU consumers can snap up a cheaper version of the company’s multi-colored handset.

The new entry-level version of the iPhone 5C only offers 8GB of on-board memory, half that of the 16GB version which, until this morning, was the base handset.

However, as well as having less storage, the new iPhone is €50 (RM227) less expensive — retailing for €549 unlocked compared with €599 for the 16GB version and €699 for the 32GB version of the same handset.

The handset is available in white, red, yellow, blue or green and boasts an A6 processor and an 8-megapixel rear-facing camera. It also has a 4-inch Retina display and the latest in wi-fi technology, meaning that web surfing is faster and the phone should have fewer problems connecting to hotspots pretty much anywhere in the world.

And although introducing a smaller capacity version of the device will make it more accessible to more potential owners, don’t forget, as Apple itself points out on its website: “The more gigabytes you have, the more content you can store on your iPhone — apps, games, photos, HD videos, music, films and more. For example, if you have a large music or photo library or you frequently download HD films, it’s a good idea to consider an iPhone with a larger storage capacity. If you have a relatively small music or photo library or rarely make or buy films, an iPhone with a smaller capacity may be better for you.”

Some commentators expected Apple to also do away with the iPhone 4S which remains in production, more than three years after its launch, however, the 8GB version of the once flagship device, available in black or white, is still on sale for €399 unlocked. — AFP/Relaxnews