The stable Nokia E61

Having finally seen the E61, I can confidently predict that this will be the must-have executive gadget for 2006. If it works as well as Nokia promises, and the signs are good, then our friends from Finland will have a hit on their hands as big as Motorola's RAZR. Moreover, with all the ho ha about Blackberry's patent dispute case, quite a few companies have started to consider alternative systems, such as the brick-like Nokia's 9300i, loosening Blackberry's hold on the market. (Big mistake by RIM not to reach an agreement faster.) Most notably, Nokia's E61 supports multiple push email software systems - in addition to Blackberry's own software. The E61 comes with the latest edition Symbian mobile operating system, which is reliable and has an attractive, intuitive user interface. As a result of Nokia's co-operation with Microsoft during 2005, the E61 will also sync with Outlook seamlessly - a big plus for corporate users. The really impressive thing about the E61 is that it is an excellent mobile phone as well as a great mobile email platform. It finally means that one gadget will finally perform both functions brilliantly, avoiding the need to carry around both a Blackberry and a phone. You'll also be able to surf the web and the E61 will support other 3G applications depending on local market availability.

Nokia has clearly designed this phone with business users in mind. Materials and build quality are second to none. The screen is gorgeous with 16 million colors and an ambiant light sensor that adjusts brightness automatically. The key board is well laid-out and has a slighty better feel the Blackberry 8700. Using the E61's phone or email functions is simple and intuitive, with Nokia's traditional call buttons placed exactly where you would expect to find them. It has been very well thought-out by designers who clearly know what they're doing. Bluetooth makes in-car use a no-brainer. Emails are easy to read and attachments can be readily accessed. The delay in Nokia announcing this model and its market launch is because greater functionality has been added in this area. In short, it is difficult to criticse the E61. Battery life could be an issue. Some people may prefer the key board of the Nokia 9300i. But all things considered, the E61 does everything corporate users could wish for. The functionality and form factor make it intensely desirable. Nokia may have been late to market with such a device, but boy oh boy, is it making up for lost time with a slick, beautifully designed pice of hardware that shouts: gotta have it!