Is this the iPhone killer? Nokia launches £450 handset billed as 'world's most advanced mobile computer'

Nokia has unveiled a new mobile phone it hopes will blow the iPhone and the BlackBerry out of the water.



The N97 is being billed as 'world's most advanced mobile computer' and features both a large touchscreen, like Apple's iPhone, and a keyboard like the BlackBerry.



It is expected to go on sale next year and will cost around cost £450 for the handset alone - although this would be heavily subsidised on contract.



'The world's most advanced mobile computer': The Nokia N97 hopes to rival the iPhone and the BlackBerry

The 3.5in touchscreen display can be fully personalised with frequently updated widgets of favorite web services and social networking sites.

Nokia claim the phone makes it easy to update social networks automatically with real-time information, giving approved friends the ability to update their 'status' and share their 'social location' as well as related pictures or videos.



A hidden keyboard slides out from under the screen, allowing users to type emails and text messages.

The phone also boasts integrated A-GPS sensors and an electronic compass, which allow it to 'intuitively understand where it is'.

Other features include a five-megapixel camera and a huge 48GB of memory, capable of storing thousands more songs than the Apple iPhone.

Unlike the Apple iPhone, the N97 will be able to play the Flash videos used on many websites.

The Nokia N97 is expected to be available from next year for around £450

'From the desktop to the laptop and now to your pocket, the Nokia N97 is the most powerful, multi-sensory mobile computer in existence,' said Jonas Geust, Vice President, heading Nokia Nseries.



'The Nokia N97 mobile computer adjusts to the world around us, helping stay connected to the people and things that matter most.'

Despite its long list of features, experts say the phone could struggle in a hugely competitive market.

'It's an interesting device, but Nokia are undoubtedly playing catch-up to their rivals,' said Stuart Miles of gadget site Pocket Lint.



'However, it doesn't really have the cool factor of the latest BlackBerry or iPhone.



'Nokia has tried to merge its business and consumer phones, and they've lost all the sex appeal a phone really needs to do well.'