Nokia E90 review: Heavyweight champion

Connectivity

The E90 package includes the latest version of the Nokia PC Suite. You get full synchronization and modem connectivity, phone memory back up, phonebook editing, composing and sending messages directly from the computer and upgrading the phone firmware. Quick transfer of images and music is also available. Mass storage mode is enabled.

The phone gets connected via a miniUSB cable, infrared port or Bluetooth • modem functionality is also available

Having mentioned the modem functionality, let us look closer at the HSDPA abilities of the Communicator. Our tests have shown that download speed when using the E90 as a modem is considerably lower than what a notebook with an integrated HSDPA card can achieve. This result of course depends on many variables: network status, time of day, number of users logged on.

HSDPA speed test

A pocketful of skills

You may be under the impression that the Communicator is an N95 in disguise. That maybe true, but at least, the disguise is a good and thorough work. Nokia have undoubtedly succeeded in creating the ultimate business device. For those, who can live with the few compromises we outlined, the E90 is an all-round tool, with multimedia and navigation just part of its armory. When makers of navigation software achieve better compatibility with integrated GPS, the Communicator may be a full fledged in-car navigation device. Its navigation skills have already been proven in a weekend of geocaching. As regards its Internet capabilities, the Communicator is beyond comparing with regular handsets.

Nokia E90 and N95: look-alikes on the inside only

So… Is Nokia E90 the new ruler? The mobile realm has long gone beyond mobile phones and portable computers. We now have UMPC and its derivatives and, what's more, we cannot afford to overlook competitive communicators powered by Windows Mobile. The answer is up to you. Anyway, we think the throne befits the E90.

Still, it goes without saying that Nokia E90 will not be a mass device. Size is hard to swallow, not to mention price.