Nokia's 1st Wi-Fi Only Device

As I mentioned in a recent article, Nokia became the first mobile phone developer to create a phone that can operate using WiFi in addition to using traditional cellular technology. More recently, Nokia and Cisco have teamed up to further develop the concepts with phones that can seamlessly transfer service between a wireless Internet connection and a cellular network.

Now, Nokia has gone a step even further, partnering with Google to create a device that relies completely on wireless Internet connectivity. The device, which will be a multifunction wireless Internet appliance comes with a version of Google's GoogleTalk instant messaging program. Like many instant messengers, GoogleTalk includes support for voice conversations. The device also incorporates other entertainment functions, including audio and video.

The move is interesting because it marks Nokia's first major foray outside of the traditional mobile phone market in addition to the company's expanding its focusing on a WiFi as a connectivity alternative to traditional cellular networks.