We know that Microsoft and Nokia are hard at work getting ready to wow us with the first Nokia Windows phone, but it looks like Symbian too will benefit from the closer relationship between the two companies. Symbian Belle: 10 things you need to know
Nokia announced today that Symbian Belle will be receiving a series of updates called Microsoft Apps, a series of productivity tools aimed at boosting Symbian Belle's appeal to business users.
The next-gen Nokia OS won't launch with Microsoft Apps on board, but will be delivered over the air in two instalments starting just after the new year.
The tools are focused on delivering tougher security features to help protect the business user, along with the whole host of Microsoft productivity tools.
The first update will introduce Microsoft Lync 2010 Mobile, Microsoft OneNote, Microsoft PowerPoint Broadcast and Microsoft Decument Connection – which provides access to Microsoft SharePoint.
Following that will be a second update in the first half of next year, which will include Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint as native applications for the first time outside the Windows platform.
The updates will be available both over the air and via PC download, and best of all they'll be completely free.
Nokia says Microsoft Apps will be compatible with the Nokia N8, Nokia C7, Nokia C6-01, Nokia E7, Nokia E6, Nokia X7, Nokia 700, Nokia 701, Nokia 600 and Nokia Oro – plus of course any further Symbian Belle handsets that appear between now and then.
It's a significant boost to Nokia's already strong business credentials, plus many of the features – especially Word and Excel – will also deliver significant benefit to ordinary consumers too.
What do you reckon? Will these exciting new features give Symbian Belle the edge on the boardroom? Let us know what you think in the Comments below.
