NEW YORK, USA - Nokia has launched its latest Eseries smartphone in North America. The E72 succeeds the successful E71 and E71x, and is being promoted for its email capabilities.

An online survey conducted by Nokia showed that more than two-thirds (68%) of those interviewed respond to work-related email in less than 30 minutes, while 38% do so in less than 5 minutes. As the world enters the holiday season, Nokia is using the E72's email and communication features as a key point for those looking for a new handset or a communication device: "This year, time off doesn't necessarily mean logging off for most of us over the holidays," said Craig Coffey, Vice President, Marketing, at Nokia. "The Nokia E72 is an ideal gift for those who want to stay connected year round. With industry-leading messaging functionality, separate home screen profiles for work and personal time, and powerful multimedia capabilities, this sleek smartphone takes the hassle out of connecting and responding to obligations that don't stop for the holidays".

The Nokia E72 runs on the enterprise-dedicated version of S60. This brings advanced email, calendar and instant messaging solutions. Mail for Exchange, IBM Lotus Traveller, Windows Live Messenger, Google Talk, Ovi Chat come preloaded with the phone, while other apps can be installed from the Ovi Store for added functionality.

The device also has a dual-profile functionality thanks to its software platform. With a simple click of a button, the E72 can transform itself from a serious-looking handset, to one with personal shortcuts and different wallpaper.

Users will be able to make use of the A-GPS and digital compass features with Nokia's Ovi Maps. The component will also add geo-tagging functionality to the camera.

The phone also brings a full QWERTY keyboard below its 2.36" display; HSPA connectivity, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a 5 megapixel camera with autofocus and flash.

Although it doesn't bring any novelty to the market, where certain competitors offer touchscreen handsets with similar functionality, consumers may prefer the E72 for its software platform.

The device will cost US$469 at official retail stores.

For more information, visit the Nokia E72 Blog.