Nokia Nixes N93 Form Factor, For Now
Of all Nseries handsets that Nokia has issued over the years, the N90 / N92 / N93 / N93i have what is by far the most unique form factor. Is it a phone? Is it a digital camcorder? Is it a messenger? Yes, yes and yes. The camera quality, especially on the latter models, was incredible and arguably trumped even the 5 megapixel camera found on the N95 line of handsets. Yes, the handsets where a bit wide around the waist and that was likely the biggest complaint users had, but these devices attracted a pretty big ‘cult’ following that was and is reluctant to pick up another phone. These die-hards are in for some bad news unfortunately. It has been quite a while since the release of the N93i and many would say Nokia is about due for an update. According to a reliable Nokia Blog source however, that update won’t be hitting shelves any time soon. In fact, it could be more than two years before a flip-and-swivel successor makes its way to market. The source placed the time line at 2010 but failed to specify a quarter or any additional details. Whatever the case may be, we hope that once a successor comes along it sees some solid updating and refinement. First and foremost of course, how about some quad-band GSM love and a little US high speed data? Oh and please be sure to put the thing on a treadmill until it works off some of that bulk.
I really liked the design of these flip phones.. The only thing holding me back from buying one is the fact that they’re aging. Another product like I would like to see Nokia update is their e70.. Maybe some T-Mobile 3G love?
“First and foremost of course, how … a little US high speed data?”
Argh. Why should Nokia spend $$$ developing and selling multiple 3G band phones? How about AT&T and T-Mo joining the 2100 party – is that too much to ask?
“Yes, the handsets where a bit wide around the waste”
I’m pretty sure you mean “waist” – it made me do a double-take.
@ Canisminor
You obviously dont know and understand the frequency issue in the US/North America. ATT and T Mobile cant just decide to use 2100….the 2100 spectrum is used by the government in the US, and that is why they are using 850/1900/1700 for 3G. If they were able to use the 2100 band, they would have used it a long time ago.
Actually, it is a little much to ask simply because T-Mobile’s 3G spectrum is 1700/2100 which does not match what AT&T has.
You actually think you will see Tmo 3G data before you A) collect social security or B) see the deployment of LTE by Verizon and ATT? Dream on suckers.
Aw damn, these were like the best looking Nokias by far.