(November 26, 2001) - Nokia today kicked off the Nokia Mobile Challenge, a series of contests for developers of mobile applications around the world. Themed as 'Shortcut to Success', the contests encourage developers to create Symbian OS and MIDP Java(TM) based applications for Nokia's state-of-the-art mobile devices, such as the newly launched Nokia 7650 imaging phone and the Nokia 9210 Communicator.
Application categories include communications, entertainment and productivity enhancers. The winning applications will be those which demonstrate the best combination of innovativeness, quality and usability. The MIDP Java contest will open immediately, and for Symbian OS based applications, the contest begins on December 10, 2001. Winners will be announced in March 2002. Entry and evaluation criteria together with contest rules and registration information are available at www.forum.nokia.com.
Nokia invites all developers globally - both companies and students - to enter the Nokia Mobile Challenge. The most compelling entries may be offered the opportunity to be distributed via Nokia's various sales channels. Winners may also be demonstrated at Nokia's customer events and trade shows during the first half of 2002. In addition, the company with the winning application will have a chance to appear in a Forum Nokia print and on-line advertising campaign. Moreover, the winners will be awarded Nokia mobile devices. All applications submitted to the contest will remain the property of their owner, also if they win.
"Nokia is happy to arrange these contests in order to create awareness for open platforms and to challenge developers to design innovative applications for mobile devices," said Jouko Hayrynen, vice president, Forum Nokia. "Through these various market-making efforts, Nokia wants to foster a superior range of software based on Java technologies and the Symbian OS. These applications help us generate attractive and compatible services for mobile phone users and create a cohesive business ecosystem."
Forum Nokia, the on-line service for developers of mobile applications worldwide, is hosting the contests and will play an active role in supporting the entrants in their development work. The applications can be created and tested by using the tools and emulators provided by Forum Nokia free of charge.
Applicants to the Nokia Mobile Challenge can receive more information, including contest rules, by visiting forum.nokia.com or sending an e-mail to mobile.challenge@nokia.com.
About Nokia
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed broadband and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.
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