S60 5th edition software

Mobile-review have posted their review of the S60 5th edition software. Here is their final conclusion.



There are no perfect things, and the S60 5th edition isn't a flawless OS either. Nevertheless, it's a well-rounded solution for an ordinary user. Apart from the browser, our only gripe with it is about application compatibility - at first custom apps will be thin on the ground (although the most popular ones will come along really soon). Also it's not quite clear whether we will see a wealth of Java applications, and I doubt they will work outside the compatibility mode. Probably we'll get more of them in a year or so, when the platform will make it to the mainstream.

As far as new features go, we can't overlook the 5th edition's adaptive search function. Also, it now allows more flexibility for WiFi connectivity, brings about a better phonebook, improved MS Outlook synchronization, support for more languages out of the box and so on. While its Organizer doesn't really brim with features, it's a generic problem of all Nokia-branded handsets; at least it seamlessly synchronizes with PC. Plus the 5th edition comes with slight enhancements in the way of IMAP mail, home screen setups and gallery.

All in all, it's a pretty decent user-friendly solution without any major hiccups in terms of functionality (expect for the browser) that will suit most consumers out there. Those who aren't looking for any bells and whistles, will be content with S60 5th edition as it is. Furthermore, other manufacturers simply don't have operating systems of the same caliber in their portfolios: Samsung offers less sophisticated solutions, yet beefs them up with Widgets; Motorola doesn't have anything newsworthy on this front; and Sony Ericsson can't stand any comparison when it comes to functionality and extensibility. So, one of the biggest challenges S60 5th edition will have to face is Apple's MacOS for mobile phones. Going for it are smoother animation effects, glossy menus and a dazzling browser. But in all other departments, the 5800 delivers exactly the same functionality or surpasses MacOS and the iPhone in particular (it lacks some crucial features, which makes it more suitable for music players rather than mobile phones).