As Suanie Sees It

The package I received from Nokia a couple of weeks ago (including the box which Ryan is using as a head gear) was actually an invite to Nokia’s media launch for the N96 at the KL Hilton. Thanks to David, I was able to take Pinky along with me (she was here for a week).

James, Ringo, KY, me and Pinky before the launch

Once there, there were many familiar faces. As we were heading home after a different event last night, KY remarked that these events are a great excuse and opportunity (not to mention being relatively inexpensive, ahem) to catch up with friends. I had to agree with him. In the immortal words of Roberto Benigni, la vita è bella.

There were speeches, video presentations and booths showcasing what the N96 is capable of. And dinner. Dinner is always awesome. And beer. I didn’t touch a single drop because I was driving. Go me.

The GM of Nokia (M), Mr. Vlasta Berka

The N79 (candybar, comes with change-able covers that also changes your phone theme) and the N85 (slide phone) will be launched sometime in the fourth quarter of the year. The highlight of the day, the Nokia N96 is already in stores, with the RRP of RM 3,338. Besides being an upgrade for the N95, the flagship N96 comes with a very nice 2.8″ display screen, 16GB internal memory, 5MP camera with Carl Zeiss optics and dual LED flash, built-in 3D stereo speakers, A-GPS, along with the usual awesome stuff that you can get with the S60 software.

The Nokia N96

As you can see from the image above, the N96 comes with a little stand so you can prop your phone up to watch movies and stuff. I think it will work great with the Nokia bluetooth keyboard, as I think that the latter’s metal prop is a bit flimsy to hold even my N95, and the allowed space was not that great. The N96 also supports streaming video from the web or live broadcast mobile TV.

My birthday is coming soon, you know…

Lightcraft performing at the event

There were 2 bands from the Nokia Independent Artists Club (IAC) performing their stuff — The Deserters and Lightcraft. Pinky and I rather liked Lightcraft’s songs, though the band sometimes drowned out the lead singer’s voice. Sounded a bit Coldplay-ish, mod-type. You can check out their MySpace here, click to listen to the song ‘Those Beautiful Shapes’. I like.

Pinky, me and Hazel from Nokia

I had a great time Cheers. The entire Flickr set for this event (17 photos) is here.