Nokia N series phones have revolutionized the ways in which mobile phones were thought about. N96 is the latest flagship product from the nokia stables. The phone features a king size specifications list and a relatively broader review is being attempted in here. The phone features a 2.6” monster screen for starters. The picture is reproduced crystal clear. The brightness of the screen has been slightly reduced compared with the n95 8gb, probably to save a couple of hours of battery backup. Contrast of the screen is also praiseworthy. One of the gripes affecting phones with large screens is the visibility in broad daylight. N96 is perfect in those fields too and is legible under extreme conditions of sunlight. The colors do appear washed but it is hardly noticeable to the eyes of the common user.

The phone features an alpha-numeric keypad too. Although the keypad may look cheaper they are a pleasure to type on. The borders separating the keys are virtually absent and hence it may take certain time for the user to get accustomed to the keypad usage. Music keys and gaming keys are the two unique modes of the keypad. The upper four and two keys are activated respectively according to the need at hand. Yellowish tint of the back lighting is also noticeable. The pure white light of the N95 may be preferred by many.

The phone runs on the latest Symbian OS which is 9.3. The interface is S60 third edition. Firmware of the phone is also updatable and is a boon when it comes to ironing out the existing bugs and enhancing the features of the phone.

Different viewing modes are included with the phone. Animated icons can be enabled or disabled. The phone is shipped with just three themes but custom themes are available in plenty on the nokia website and on nokia n96 related user forums. The phone is also good in the call department. Little interference and call drops were experienced even when the phone was tested in low coverage areas. Voice recognition system works flawlessly too. Unlimited number of phone book entries can be saved on the phone. The call log feature also keeps a tab on the calls being made and received. SMS, MMS and email is supported by the phone. It also features an audio message editor. POP and IMAP facility is also included. The music player which is integrated into the phone can practically play any format which is thrown towards it. A2DP is a boon for the Bluetooth freaks too !!.

Audio quality although improved, but not much as its predecessors. The audio is distorted at high volume levels. Real player is used to viewing video clips on the phone. The phone can be suitably placed on the desk with the help of a kickstand and the user can enjoy a good viewing experience. Digital TV broadcast tuner is also integrated into the phone not to mention the FM radio facility too. GPS, N-Gage gaming can be enjoyed too.