The release of the netbook, which appears to run Windows 7, comes as something of a surprise, given that most of the company's products to date have been ARM-based phones running the Symbian OS or ARM-based tablets running Linux. However, Nokia and Intel in June announced a long-term partnership to develop "a new class of Intel Architecture-based mobile computing device and chipset architectures," and Intel has licensed Nokia's HSPA/3G modem technologies.


Nokia's Booklet 3G
(Click to enlarge)

The Booklet 3G appears to be better-finished than most competing netbooks, and will include integrated 3G wireless and a hot-swappable SIM card, according to Nokia. The device will also sport a 10.1-inch display, an HDMI output, a camera, an SD card reader, and three USB ports, according to images and brief specifications released by the company. Meanwhile, weight is specified as 2.75 pounds (1.25kg), and dimensions as 10.39 x 7.28 x 0.75 inches (264 x 185 x 19mm).

Nokia's Booklet 3G appears to run Windows 7
(Click to enlarge)

In a statement announcing the system, Nokia said the Booklet 3G will be "Windows-based" and will offer up to 12 hours of battery life. As depicted above and on the video embedded at the end of this story, the device appears to be running Windows 7 rather than Windows XP.

Kai Oistamo, Nokia's executive vice president of devices, stated, "We are in the business of connecting people and the Nokia Booklet 3G is a natural evolution for us." The company will "make the personal computer more social, more helpful and more personal," he added, by shipping the Booklet with the company's "Ovi" suite of software, including maps, access to the Nokia Music Store, and the ability to sync with a Bluetooth-equipped smartphone.

"We are fully aware [of] what has the margin level been in the PC world," Oistamo is quoted by our sister publication eWEEK as saying. "We have gone into this with our eyes wide open."

eWEEK also quotes analyst Jack Gold of J. Gold Associates as saying that the Booklet 3G is a direct evolution from Nokia's smartphones and Linux tablets.

"Netbooks are increasingly being sold as mobile device alternatives (or supplements) to smartphones. Many have 3G radios included, can make voice calls (via VoIP) and are increasingly being sold and subsidized by traditional wireless carriers. Therefore, it is logical to see Nokia make this move," Gold reportedly stated.

A promotional video for the Booklet 3G
Source: Nokia Corporation
(click to play)

Further information

Nokia says it will provide more detailed specifications for the Booklet 3G, plus information about availability and pricing, at a "Nokia World" event on Sep. 2. The company's current product page for the device may be found, here.

To see eWEEK's additional coverage regarding the Nokia Booklet 3G, go here.

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