New smartphone is aimed at over-65s

A smartphone aimed at over-65s is to launch in Europe this year - created by Doro, a Swedish company specialising in simpler handsets for older users.

The new Doro Phoneeasy 810 will offer email, web and simplified apps with large, simplified touchscreen controls.

Doro claims that it is exploring a large and untapped market with the new handset, which is set to launch in the second half of this year.

More than 80% of people aged 65 years and up have mobile phones - and half are considering a smartphone when they next upgrade, according to Doro's research.

[Related: New six-inch touchscreens blur lines between tablets and phones]

Doro previously released a touch-enabled model, the Phoneeasy 740 (pictured), which enjoyed what Doro describes as 'phenomenal success'.

The Phoneeasy 740 still used button controls - similar to cheaper smartphones. The new Phoneeasy 810 will be the first to offer a 'full' smartphone experience.

Chris Millington, Managing Director of Doro UK commented on the launch: “The senior mobile market is rapidly changing and we understand this. In response to these changes we’ll be launching our smart phone later this year."

"The reason our devices succeed is that we give absolute granular attention to every possible detail in the design process. Most importantly our new smart phone will not be another ‘me too’ touch screen device. Our handset will be a liberating device and a technology challenger in true Doro style. We will offer a significant point of difference.”