Nokia prepping updated 5800 XpressMusic with capacitive screen?
By Chris Ziegler 
posted Apr 17th 2009 3:16PM
posted Apr 17th 2009 3:16PM
It's certainly not unheard of for Nokia to take existing models in its lineup, tweak 'em with slightly improved hardware and software, and re-release them -- see the N85 / N86, N93 / N93i, N95 / N96, and so on -- so we can totally buy that the company's hard at work at updating its 5800 for a future revision. DigiTimes (which admittedly doesn't have a pristine record for nailing these sorts of rumors) cites "sources" with Taiwanese component suppliers as saying that Nokia wants to replace the 5800's resistive touchscreen with a capacitive one -- the S60-based Samsung i8910 does that, by the by -- in an effort to better compete with its rivals. That would certainly make the device more usable and responsive, but in all likelihood, this isn't a simple matter of swapping out a component (how would you use that totally awesome plectrum, after all?) so we'd expect this to be more of an indication that Espoo's looking to move to capacitive going forward, particularly as it transitions over to the Symbian Foundation's builds.
unlike the apple fanboys im quite happy with my resistive 5800, thankyouverymuch. i enjoy the option of using the plectrum, stylus, or whatever-the-hell-i-choose-to-poke-my-screen-with. i also enjoy having handwriting recognition options. i dont see the resistive screen as such a downfall like everyone makes it out to be.
It would be nice if they put a capacity touchscreen in the N97
Does engadget have a pristine record for nailing these sorts of rumors?
Can you read?
"DigiTimes (which admittedly doesn't have a pristine record for nailing these sorts of rumors) cites "sources" with Taiwanese component suppliers..."
They're reporting on a story from DigiTimes, Engadget didn't make it up out of nowhere. If you're going to comment, atleast take the time to read the whole thing and analyze it. If that is too much for you, refrain from commenting at all.
Sorry folks. This rumour is false. Nokia is not replacing Nokia 5800 XpressMusic screens with capacitive screens.
Tchau,
Charlie
Nokia Conversations
conversations.nokia.com
I emailed them about the rumor, and here's their response.
Dear Devin,
Thank you for e-mailing the Nokia Care Contact Center.
I appreciate your interest in the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic phone.
At this time Nokia can not confirm if the screen will be changed to capacitive on the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic phone. I am very sorry that I can not provide more information at this time. When the information becomes available regarding any changes it will be updated on our web site at www.nokiausa.com.
I would also recommend that you continue to monitor our press release page for any updates regarding the Nokia 5800 XpressMusic phone. For your convenience I have provided the direct link below:
http://www.nokia.com/press
If you have any additional questions, please contact us. To ensure proper handling, please continue to use the current subject line.
Thank you for choosing Nokia for your mobile needs.
Tiffany
E-mail Specialist
Nokia Inc.
Check out all the phones and accessories you can purchase, direct from Nokia at NokiaUSA.com. If you have any questions, please call us at 1-866-596-6542 and we can help you find the right product for you.
If Nokia choose to rerelease the 5800, will i have the option to trade it in for the new one or will i have to stick with my resistive one?
I personally dont really mind, capacitive tech means i have multi touch and a much more expensive looking phone, resistive means i cant use my awesome plectrum stylus or handwriting meaning that the handwriting calculator wont be able to be used.
Although i heard its called something like induction technology. Whats that?
Just ordered a 5800 from vodafone in the UK. Asked them over the phone about this rumour and was surprised to hear them confirm it. Apparently the 'new' batch of 5800s on voda UK can be identified by the 'Gavin & Stacey' (a BBC comedy) branded boxes and preloaded episodes.
Mine comes on Tuesday so I'll be able to confirm then, but a brief search shows G&S branded unwanted upgrades have started appearing on ebay over here already.