Nokia N75 Review - Conclusion

Conclusion

As a reviewer I try to remain as objective as possible, but I’ll admit that I’m a big fan of Nokia handsets, their N-Series in particular.  When it comes to smartphone functionality, I prefer Symbian to Windows Mobile, and Nokia’s Series 60 is a great implementation of the Symbian OS.  As such, I was very excited to see the N75 bring the S60 experience to a carrier-supported handset in the US.

But I must say the Cingular (now AT&T) N75 left me a little cold.  Few people likely associate Nokia with “style,” but this handset is pretty big and blocky even for a Nokia.  Compared to competing handsets in AT&T’s lineup - like the Samsung Sync - the N75 looks kind of clunky and odd.  Moving past its looks, the N75’s performance is a mixed bag and frustrating for what it could (and really should) be:  A better camera, stereo Bluetooth support, and the addition of HSDPA data would go a long way towards boosting this phone’s profile.  Beyond that, the suspect battery life is also bound to be a big issue with potential buyers -- even if it’s an issue that’s partially correctable via software settings, you really shouldn’t have to think twice about battery life on a phone that’s this physically big and technologically advanced.

The N75 has a lot going for it, including smartphone power, excellent Web and music player apps, and two superlative displays.  But it’s clumsy size and a few key issues really detract from what should have been a more noteworthy debut for a high-end Symbian handset on an American carrier.  Here’s hoping that Nokia comes back with another AT&T or T-Mobile backed N-Series device soon, and that they’ve learned from the small handful of missteps that hamper the N75.

Compare prices »