Nokia has done it again with a great looking, feature packed N series phone that takes mobile entertainment to an all new level. The Nokia N81 is attractive, stylish, and one of the most enjoyable handsets of the year. From music and games to pictures and messaging, the N81 is the ultimate boredom buster and a complete entertainment package wherever you go.

Typical of N series handsets, the N81 is a bit chunky in its design. Nevertheless, this shiny, black slide phone is a fashionable handset that demands a second look. The brilliant, 16.7 million colour display screen offers excellent resolution and a clear image, but the screen is significantly smaller than the Nokia N95. Beneath the display, the navigation pad features an iPod-like touch wheel that is innovative, but not very user friendly.

Paling in comparison to the N95′s superb 5 megapixel camera, the N81 has a 2 megapixel camera that does include a flash feature, but lacks auto focus and is disappointing for a modern handset, especially an N series phone. If music and games are more important than a camera, however, the Nokia N81 is ideal.

Dedicated controls for the music player are conveniently positioned around the touch wheel so it is easy to listen to your favourite tunes without accessing the N81′s menu or opening the slide. Memory is not an obstacle and there is no need for a memory card with an astounding 8 GB of internal memory. Playback is quite enjoyable, whether you’re listening through the included headphones or through the built in stereo speakers. A standard 3.5 mm headphone jack is also included, as well as support for Bluetooth stereo headphones. Nokia also remembered all the little details that appeal to music lovers, including play list support, an equalizer, and an FM radio with Visual Radio.

If games are your passion, the Nokia N81 supports the newest trend in mobile gaming, N-Gage and is preloaded with three popular demo games. In addition to the music controls, there are also dedicated game controls and the high resolution display screen can be used in both landscape and portrait modes for more gaming pleasure.

The N-Gage gaming platform is relatively new, but features some of the best graphics and quality available in mobile game technology. The Nokia N81 supports the Ovi Web platform, presently in its testing phases. This unique portal allows mobile users to download music, games, and videos, as well as maps and other information. It will also support image sharing and storage.

The 3G Nokia N81 has Wi-Fi capabilities, supports Bluetooth and video calling, and features the useful Nokia Maps application. Wireless GPS is also an option. The N81 is typical of Nokia’s quality, with clear reception and acceptable battery life. Extensive use of the Wi-Fi or the music player can mean more frequent charging.

The Nokia N81 is a bit larger than other phones on the market and quite heavy compared to the ultra thin, ultra light handsets available, but the impressive memory capabilities and cutting edge entertainment features make the N81 a perfect choice for those who want to have fun wherever they go.