Microsoft is to continue to use the Nokia brand to target emerging markets with entry-level handsets, despite its decision to rebrand its Lumia smartphone range.

Last week’s announcement that Nokia Lumia phones would now be branded Microsoft Lumia had led to speculation that the Nokia brand would be quickly phased out.

Microsoft had posted on Facebook: “In the next few days you’ll receive a message directly from Facebook about this page changing name. We’re about to become Microsoft Lumia UK! Watch this space for more news soon.”

With Microsoft only permitted to use the Nokia brand for 18 months, following its acquisition of the handset-maker in 2013, many observers supposed Nokia mobile phones would soon be a thing of the past.

However, in an interview posted on the Nokia website, Tuula Rytilä, senior vice president of marketing for phones at Microsoft, insisted the brand would remain for entry-level products such as the Nokia 130.

When asked if consumers can expect any additional Nokia phones from Microsoft, Rytilä replied: “Yes! Microsoft will continue to sell Nokia-branded, entry-level category of phones, such as the Nokia 130. We have licensed the Nokia brand for such devices.”

Microsoft has this week launched the Nokia 130 handset in India, priced at around $30, positioning the device as ideal for consumers “looking for their first mobile phone, or for those looking for a rock-solid backup phone”.