Updated 25 May, 2012, 6:23 pm IST

Nokia's Linux-based N900 Is Now Official

28 Aug, 2009, 9:06 am IST | by Shayne Rana |

Finally the Nokia N900 has made an official appearance as the company has marked the next phase in the evolution of Maemo software with the new device recently. Taking its cues from the world of desktop computing, the open source, Linux-based Maemo software delivers a PC-like experience on a handset-sized device.

The Nokia N900 has evolved from Nokia’s previous generation of Internet Tablets and broadens the choice for technology enthusiasts who appreciate the ability to multitask and browse the internet like they would on their desktop computer. Running on the new Maemo 5 software, the Nokia N900 is designed to empower users to have dozens of application windows open while running simultaneously and taking full advantage of the cellular features like the touch screen and QWERTY keyboard.

“With Linux software, Mozilla-based browser technology and now also with cellular connectivity, the Nokia N900 delivers a powerful mobile experience,” says Anssi Vanjoki, Executive Vice President, Markets, Nokia. “The Nokia N900 shows where we are going with Maemo and we’ll continue to work with the community to push the software forward. What we have with Maemo is something that is fusing the power of the computer, the internet and the mobile phone, and it is great to see that it is evolving in exciting ways.”

The Nokia N900 will feature –

a 3.5 inch touch-sensitive widescreen display with an 800 � 480 pixel resolution
full physical slide-out QWERTY keyboard and on-screen virtual keyboard as well
32GB of storage, which is expandable up to 48GB via a microSD card
3.5mm earphone and handsfree socket
5 megapixel CMOS sensor autofocus camera with Carl Zeiss optics and a Tessar lens as well as a Dual LED flash
Photo editor on device
Video recording
TV Out (PAL/NTSC) via Connectivity Cable (included in box) or WLAN/UPnP
Bluetooth v2.1 with A2DP
Integrated GPS with A-GPS support (Ovia Maps preloaded)
Video playback includes XviD support (FINALLY)
Built-in FM transmitter and radio
Maemo browser powered by Mozilla technology and Adobe Flash 9.4 support

The Nokia N900 is equipped with an ARM Cortex-A8 processor, up to 1GB of application memory and OpenGL ES 2.0 graphics acceleration. The result is what should be PC-like multitasking, allowing many applications to run simultaneously. Check out the video showcasing the UI.

Switching between applications will be simple as all running content will be available through the dashboard. The panoramic homescreen can be fully personalized with shortcuts, widgets and applications. Maemo software updates happen automatically over the internet. Nokia Messaging service is on board as well which mobilizes up to 10 personal email accounts.

The Nokia N900 will be available in select markets from October 2009 at an estimated retail price of about Rs. 35,050 (EUR 500) excluding sales taxes and subsidies.

Tags: Touchscreen , 5 Megapixel , QWERTY , N Series