Nokia rests on laurels, launches 6700, 6303, and 2700 classic handsets
By Thomas Ricker 
posted Jan 29th 2009 3:40AM
posted Jan 29th 2009 3:40AM
Nokia just launched three new handsets said to "build on the formula that made Nokia the world leader in mobile phones." The threesome includes the new 6700 classic (pictured) that continues the legacy of the Nokia 6300, a phone that "topped all sales records for a mid-range mobile phone" back in 2006 according to the tall slender cats from Espoo. As such, don't expect any fancy-pants software or touchscreen novelties here -- the "slim" 6700 classic (pre-tax €235 / about $311) plays it straight as a small-screened candybar with a 5 megapixel camera, aGPS navigation, and "high-speed" data access undoubtedly of the HSPA variety. Nokia has the nerve to call the 2.2-inch display on the (€135) 6303 classic, "large," but makes up for that assery with the inclusion of supposed "excellent" battery performance, a 3.5-mm audio jack, and aGPS with Nokia Maps. Bringing up the rear is the (€65) Nokia 2700 classic touting 2GB of on-board memory plus memory card expansion, a 2 megapixel camera, and full integration with Nokia's Ovi suite of services, natch. All are expected to ship before June. Hey, Nokia, we understand your quest for mid-market domination, but with market share in decline and your unlaunched, flagship N97 receiving a lukewarm response at announcement (think Palm Pre by comparison)... might we suggest looking forward, not back?
These are all cheap-to-mid level phones.
You know, mass volume devices for Asian and other emerging markets?
What were you expecting in a $100USD phone?
A 3" screen, multi-touch and an orgasmatron?
Use your brain, man.
Not to say Nokia doesn't suck, or that their high end phones don't suck as far as the screens go, but these are not high end phones.
What a lame statement... "might we suggest looking forward, not back?" Tsk tsk... Not all customers can be smartphone users and for this group Nokia 6700 is certainly a huge step forward, this is the best build midrange phone on the market. Quality is like Nokia 8800 but one third of the price and includes aGPS, 5Mpix, 3.5mm audio jack oh and BT STEREO. Bye bye Apple iPod sales.
Might I suggest taking engadgetmobile journalism a step forward, not back?
/Niels