N8 Firmware Update: Anna's features

In Singapore, Nokia Connections was the venue for more announcements about the upcoming Anna firmware updates. Nokia will start shipping N8, E7, C7 and C6-01 with Symbian Anna in July but it will be possibly August when existing owners can get the download. If you don't have a new Nokia, it's probably best to wait till July and get one with the new firmware installed.

The new firmware promises the following features:

• New interface 
• Faster web browser (and we all know we need that!) 
• Portrait orientation QWERTY keyboard on screen 
• Improved OVI Maps allowing Public Transport options and location sharing
• Access to Intranet and Business level security for emails
• Social media integrated to the address book and homescreen

What's New in Ovi Maps 3.08?

Drive Enhancements: 

• Live traffic routing takes traffic information into account to avoid traffic jams automatically (available in Germany, France, US, UK and Russia).
• Turn on "Avoid traffic" in your "Route settings" to take traffic conditions into account while you drive. Always get the best route for right now.
• New Drive look & feel - home screen now has buttons for "Set destination," "Drive home" and "Just drive."
• "Just drive" or Drive assistance shows your accurate speed, gives speed warnings, the distance driven and real time traffic.
• New information bar on Drive navigation and Drive assistance screens.
• Also easily toggle between Estimated Time of Arrival in minutes or distance to your destination - just tap the icon on the screen.
• New option menus in Drive.
• Set a contact as a destination.
• Easily change your settings during Drive navigation. Changes in settings are immediate and can been seen instantly.

Additional improvements

• Long tap is now available to give quick access to "Drive to," "Walk to," "Share" and various lists.
• Settings reorganized to "General" "Maps & Walk" and "Drive."

Hop to it here

N9 brings Meego to reality

Stephen Elop, Nokia's new CEO, has announced the upcoming Meego Nokia device, the Nokia N9. Touted as the first completely touch device, the Nokia N9 will have a awesome 8MP autofocus camera which is one step back from the N8 12MP and will also include new technology which allows you to transfer files by tapping the phone on to another device. The device will be encased in a polycarbonate cover which apparently improves antenna performance.

The change to Meego will be an interesting one seeing as WP7 will be the future for Nokia. Not much is known about the N9 but if you want to check out the features and specs, head over to this page.