Nokia N96 launch riddle

30 May 2008

Nokia's powerhouse handset looks set for July release, or is it August?

The rumour mill is getting in a right spin about when the much talked about Nokia N96 is going on sale. Play.com are already taking orders for the handset, with its 16GB in-built memory, five-megapixel camera and HSDPA data speeds, and the company is promoting the on-sale date as 31 July.

Meanwhile, back in February, we ran a story stating that Carphone Warehouse's website was advertising an on sale date of June for the Nokia N96. However, Carphone has since stated that those eager to get hold of the N96 will now have to wait until August.

Yet while Carphone Warehouse is yet to announce a price for the phone, Play.com is taking pre-orders for a SIM free, unlocked Nokia N96 for the rather steep price of £599.99 (though this will also get you a free delivery). This is a dramatic increase to the £400 originally touted by the Finnish manufacturer. Mobile Choice will continue to keep you posted to any possible on-sale dates or price discrepancies.