Nokia VP admits that the company learned the hard way with the N97

Even way before it was launched, when pictures of the Nokia N97 were the closest thing to the actual handset, it managed to get people excited in many ways than you can imagine. Then launch day came around and soon the spark that once ignited the interest quickly began to fade inexplicably. Sure they managed to release the N97 mini in an attempt to really perfect the handset in a way – but just like its big brother, it too failed to build the momentum of keeping consumers compelled with the handset. In an interview with All About Symbian/Mobile Industry Review during MWC, they managed to sit down and talk to Nokia's vice president of markets, Anssi Vanjoki. Even though the N97 was completely able to meet the company's goals for sales volume and revenue, it proved to be a “tremendous disappointment in terms of the experience quality for the consumers and something [they] did not anticipate." It's very rare when you have someone high up in the ladder of a major company that actually steps out of the normal boundaries to offer the sober truth surrounding one of its flagship handsets. When you look at it, it pales in comparison to other platforms that rely heavily on the use of the touchscreen. With that in mind, it seems like Nokia is learning from the mistakes and taking up the monumental task of hitting on the opportunities they have when Symbian^3 handsets start to come about.

Nokia N97 Specifications | Review

source: All About Symbian via Engadget