STOCKHOLM -(Dow Jones)- Nokia said Monday that it has missed a self-imposed deadline for starting shipments of a new range of mobile phones intended to compete with Research In Motion's Blackberry devices and some additions to its flagship multimedia phone range.
Nokia had planned to start shipping its new E-series mobile phones, aimed at professional users, during the first quarter. However, the phones won't reach customers until some time in April, because of a need for more extensive technical testing than it had anticipated.
The E-series phones use technology that allows IT departments to manage security settings, corporate applications and data.
"Based on the business plans of many of our operator customers, they (E-series phones) will likely be available in large EMEA markets first," said Nokia spokeswoman Maria Kellokumpu.
In particular, Nokia said its E61 phone, which has a similar look to RIM's market-leading, e-mail-focused Blackberry devices, has enjoyed high interest from customers.
"We did reprioritize the Nokia E61 device in our development plans based on operator demand," Kellokumpu said.
Nokia has also delayed shipping three additions to its N-series line-up of advanced multimedia phones. The N91 phone, which doubles as a music player, was originally intended to be in stores before Christmas.
All N-series phones will now be available later this month, a company spokesman said.
At 1445 GMT, Nokia's shares were up 0.5%, or nine cents, at EUR17.17.
-By Magnus Hansson, Dow Jones Newswires;+46 8 545 130 91, magnus.hansson@dowjones.com
(END) Dow Jones Newswires"
Posted to the site on 3rd April 2006
Posted to: www.cellular-news.com/story/16799.php