Nokia World: Nokia aims to claw back share with E7, C6 and C7 launch

Phone giant hopes Symbian based handsets will help it compete better with Apple and Google

The E7 is pitched as the premier business class device

Nokia rounded out its latest family of Symbian smartphones today, hoping that a faster and more intuitive operating system, and tighter integration with Ovi services and apps, will help it better compete with Android and Apple.

The E7 was one of four handsets introduced at Nokia World 2010, and was described by departing executive Anssi Vanjoki as the premier business class device, and the true successor to the Nokia 9000 Communicator launched in 1996, which Nokia claims was the first 'smartphone'.

The device comes with a 4in touch screen and a full Qwerty keyboard, a form factor that Nokia believes is best suited to business people.

The smartphone can synchronise with Microsoft Exchange accounts, allowing access to corporate email on the move as well as the ability to view and work on documents, spreadsheets or PowerPoint presentations.

Nokia said that other important updates will be added after the phone's release courtesy of its partnership with Microsoft.

Vanjoki also touted the E7's Clear Black Display (CBD) technology, which offers a high contrast viewing experience by removing unwanted reflection and providing clearer outdoor visibility.

"[The E7] is the best business device by Nokia or anyone else," he said.

The E7 has an estimated retail price of €495, putting it in the same price range as the iPhone 4 and Samsung Galaxy S.

Nokia also unveiled the C6 and C7 devices, describing them as built for social networking on the move.

The C6 features a 3.2in Amoled touch screen and CBD technology, and offers access to music and apps from the Ovi Store as well as the ability to synchronise Facebook, Twitter and email accounts. It is estimated to cost €260.

Meanwhile, the C7 has much the same features but comes with a slightly larger 3.5in touch screen and will be priced at €335. The C6, C7 and E7 are expected to start shipping at the end of the year.

Nokia also showcased the highly anticipated N8, a device that will "take the Symbian platform to the next level", according to the firm. V3.co.uk looked at an N8 prototype back in July and was impressed with the device.

The N8 was showcased at Nokia World with its HDMI video output displayed on a giant screen, alongside pictures taken with the 12-megapixel camera.

Vanjoki stated that the device is capable of "intense multitasking", and can keep 25 applications running at the same time.

The N8 is shaping up to be the most successful Nokia phone ever launched. Niklas Savander, executive vice president of markets at Nokia, stated that the product has had the highest online pre-orders in Nokia's history.

"Symbian [has been] rewritten to be faster, easier to use, more efficient and more developer friendly," he added.