Nokia will be focusing on improving messaging and social networking tools with the launch of three new handsets – the Nokia C3, C6 and E5 - all of which feature full QWERTY keyboards.
Nokia C3
First to the new line-up is the Nokia C3. With an estimated price of EURO 90 ($122) this fairly budget handset offers a very reasonable variety of features considering its price. Based on Nokia’s popular Series 40 cell phone platform, the C3 will incorporate Ovi Mail and Ovi Chat and, for the first time, users will be able to set up email and chat accounts straight from the device, without the need for a PC. The in-built camera on the C3 is more of a gesture than anything though, only coming in at 2-megapixels. However, added Wi-Fi connectivity, a 2.4-inch screen and support for a 8GB memory card may sway your vote. This reasonably low-cost handset may end up being a favored choice for younger cell phone users, especially considering its availability in bright tones such as hot pink, golden white and slate grey.
Nokia C6
Ticking the box for a Symbian-based smart phone, the Nokia C6 features a much larger 3.2-inch touch screen with a full slide out QWERTY keyboard and a higher res 5-megapixel, complete with in-built camera with auto-focus and flash. Also steering its users towards down the social networking path (it’s possible to view Facebook feeds directly on the cell phone home-screen), the Nokia C6 comes complete with the free walk and drive navigation feature, Ovi Maps.
This model is expected to be available in the second quarter of 2010 with an estimated price of EUR 220 ($298).
Nokia E5
Finally, rounding off the trio is Nokia’s latest addition to its E series range, the Nokia E5. Based on the design of previous handsets, the Nokia E72 and Nokia E63 this Symbian-based model is promised to offer direct access to over 90 per cent of the world’s corporate email through Mail for Exchange and IBM Lotus Notes Traveler.The Nokia E5 is expected to be available in the third quarter of 2010 with a recommend price of around EUR 180 ($244).