Nokia has chosen India as the location for the first in a series of satellite design studios across the world. Established via a two year partnership with the Srishti School of Art, Design and Technology in Bangalore, the design centre will give Nokia designers and India’s youth the opportunity to work together on new design ideas for India and the global markets.

Alastair Curtis, Nokia’s chief designer, said “The new satellite studio will help us further develop our understanding of this vibrant country and to work more closely with its extremely talented designers. Reflecting India’s status as one of the hottest countries for design right now, I expect our work here to influence not only our thinking on new design trends and ideas for India, but also for many other markets around the world.”

The satellite studio will explore a range of design trends and themes including detailed research into colour and material trends in India, mobile use of the internet in India and its implications for design, and examining innovative new features and uses for mobiles.

“Nokia’s decision to open its first design satellite studio in India underscores our commitment to the market and strengthens our presence in the country– distribution and sales, R&D, manufacturing and now design. Our vision for India is to connect the next billion and our design and R&D centres will be instrumental in giving us insights to cater to the needs of this market,” said D Shivakumar, VP and country general manager, Nokia India.