Nokia Talks Up New N97, A Really Smart Smartphone

Danny Orr
http://www.crn.com/retail/212201347
Nokia Talks Up New N97, A Really Smart Smartphone
In Barcelona Tuesday December 2, 2008, Nokia introduced its response to the highly popular iphone. The iphone, created by Apple along with AT&T has controlled the market for a significant amount of time now. Verizon also has responded with its creation of the BlackBerry storm, which supposedly has the same capabilities as the iphone, if not more. The new N97 includes a full keyboard, WIFI, a 5 megapixel camera, 3.5 inch touch screen, 3G capabilities and GPS. Two new features that Nokia is most excited about revolve around users’ social browsing behaviors and habits. The Smartphone will have a quick contacts bar and a widgets screen to allow the customer to customize their personal cellular device. The full keyboard is an attempt to appeal to those who haven’t completely transferred over to the new touch screen technology. The phone mainly will be targeted to be sold in European and Asian markets because Nokia generally introduces most of its products to Europe, then gradually adapts to the needs of the US markets. The starting price in Europe and Asia will be approximately $695 US dollars and will be on sale in the beginning of 2009.
In my opinion, I believe this is absolutely necessary for the cellular device industry. Apple’s iphone has taken over a market that is rapidly improving technology on a constant basis. The iphone has begun to die down in the United States and the beginning of 2009 is a perfect time for a new, better smart phone to be introduced. Personally, I do not own an iphone and I am not a huge fan. I like to see that other companies are at least making attempt to compete and hopefully level the playing field in the industry. That being said, I don’t know much about the European markets in relation to the cellular phone industry. The 700 dollar price range is a bit pricey and with the economy taking a turn for the worst in many areas of the world, this phone may not appeal to the lower and middle class in many countries. Phone companies generally bill their customers a flat monthly bill, but with the introduction of these smart phones, companies now have the options of including internet service, music options, and other fees on the monthly bill. The upgrade of your personal cell phone may be beneficial for the time being, but the day that monthly bill is placed in your mailbox is the day the consumer realizes that these recent technological upgrades are not seeing eye to eye with your checkbook.

Hey Professor Pridmore, I apologize for posting the blog on my friend's account. My google account hasn't been working lately for some reason.
Thanks, Danny