Nokia unveils ‘TV Edition’ of its 5330 device

Richard Goodwin

Nokia has released a new “entertainment hub” version of its 5330 handset which puts an emphasis on Mobile TV.

The device, which is officially known as the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition, utilises Europe’s favourite brand of mobile TV - DVB-H -, as well as social networking services, music, and gaming.

According to Nokia, some 300 million people will be watching television on their mobiles by 2012.

"The introduction of the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition responds to the arrival of DVB-H broadcast mobile TV networks in new markets and offers an affordable device for new and existing customers alike, said Nokia vice president, Mark Selby.

He added: “Customers are increasingly watching a variety of programmes on their mobiles, such as drama programs, news and sport, for a longer period of time. The Nokia 5330 Mobile TV Edition has the sound and image quality to hold audiences captive."

In addition, the new device will support Nokia’s Electronic Program Guide and is reported to allow up to six hours of viewing time in one sitting.

At present, the device is only available in Austria, Finland, Ghana, Kenya, India, Italy, Namibia, Nigeria, Netherland, Philippines and Switzerland. But the device is set to launch in another 20 countries over the next 12-18 months, according to Nokia.

The device itself is priced at 155 Euros pre tax and subsidies.

At present there is no word on an official UK release date.