Nokia phone navigates WiFi and wireless

Nokia unveiled a handset last week that will hand off a live call made on a cell network to a WiFi connection when one is sensed. The Nokia 6301 uses UMA (unlicensed mobile access) to make use of wireless hot spots for calls. Aside from saving minutes on a cell plan, the dual-mode phone offers the promise of better coverage where traditional reception is spotty.
The 6301 is reported to be one of a handful of UMA phones, given the potential for them to eat into the lucrative wireless business model. The unit will be introduced in select European markets for about $322. Orange will provide a service package, Pocket-lint reports.

Just one day before the 6301 was introduced, Nokia debuted the latest addition to its E series enterprise line with the $485 E51, also a dual-mode unit scheduled for a market debut in Q4. The rise of the dual-mode handset will further blur the demarcation between land line and mobile service.

For More:
- PC World has more details about other UMA phones here
- The TimesOnline piece includes a a perspective on mobile calls from fixed points and how femtocells factor in, here

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