The users hoping for a slightly smaller recreation of the Nokia N97 may be slightly disappointed when they get their mits on the mini version, not much has changed. Little changes can sometimes make a big difference though!
The N97 mini will cost around 430 GBP and will have similar specs to its larger brother. Nokia has reduced the structure size by replacing the navigation pad with precision keys and done away with the camera lens cover (we guess everything helps). Apart from that the N97 mini is very similar to its larger brother. The handsets display is slightly different and still no signs of a capacitive screen, – choosing to stick with the resistive screen so a good old “poke” will be needed.
The main changes are under the skin, the mini being loaded with Nokia’s new version 2.0 of the OS. Nokia say this will improve the problems with the resistive screen but we think it will need to be seen to be believed!
User functionality of the mini’s bigger brother still remains here, Nokia state the device is a “portable computer” and not a mobile phone. Along with reducing the size of the handset, the on-board memory has also been reduced, axing the 32GB from the N97 to just 8GB for the mini! However, this can be expanded by addition of a MicroSD card, expanding the memory capacity up to 24GB. This seems very poor compared to the mini’s bigger brother, but sacrifices have had to be made to reduce the size.
The other eye catcher is the mini’s support of the new life casting feature in connection with the Ovi suite which would appeal to the Facebook fanatics. The feature allows you to update a status exactly wherever you are, enabling you to add your location and pictures straight from the handsets home screen.
Adding to the mini’s location facility Ovi Maps, joined with A-GPS Support gives the handset the ability to offer voice guidance for walking and driving. Thousands of POI’s are available (with thanks to Michelin and Lonely Planet) straight from the handset.
To sum up, the mini looks to be a good addition to the Nokia fleet. The new OS and reduced dimension can only attract more buyers. Its just disappointing that the memory has been reduced so dramatically and the screen has still not been brought forward to match newer technologies.
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