Apple’s iPhone OS 4 is now in previews, Microsoft is moving ahead with Windows Phone 7, and Android is gaining new followers. Yet Symbian is still a player in the world of mobile operating systems (OSs), with announcements of new models from major manufacturers in two key markets. 

The Docomo Style series SH-06B will use the Symbian platform, based on Symbian OS v9.4. Manufactured by Sharp, the SH-06B is a slim handset that includes a full-width VGA display. It also supports HSDPA 7.2 Mbits/s. And, its auto-focus CMOS camera provides face detection.

According to the Symbian Foundation, 123 Symbian-based models have either shipped or are in the process of being launched in Japan, including a Taiwanese variant model manufactured by Fujitsu Limited. More than 330 million units have shipped worldwide since the fist Symbian-based device launched in 2000.

Meanwhile, Nokia has announced the release of its Symbian E5 and C6 devices in Europe. Both feature full QWERTY keyboards and 5-Mpixel cameras. They also provide one-touch access to social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter as well as voice calls, texting, and instant messaging. Both have Ovi Maps with free walk and drive navigation preloaded, with thousands more apps available through the Ovi store.

Focused on the business market, the E5 boasts a battery life with 18.5 hours of talk time and 29 days of standby time, in addition to a 2.4-in. display. It uses the non-touch Symbian third edition OS. Running Symbian S60 fifth edition, the C6 sends Facebook updates directly to the contacts list and can access up to 10 e-mail accounts, all from the 3.2-in. touchscreen. Available in the third quarter, the E5 will cost €180. Scheduled for the second quarter, the C6 will cost €220.

Docomo

Nokia

The Symbian Foundation