Ericsson launches updated business devices

It may remind you of an iPod but it's not meant to remind you of a smartphone — Sony Ericsson has taken the wraps off its newest messaging-focused phone.

The M600 is the latest Symbian-based phone to come out of the Sony Ericsson stable and is aimed at push-email-hungry users. It comes with support for Microsoft's ActiveSync, RIM's BlackBerry Connect and a number of others including Intellisync and Seven's offerings.

The device also comes equipped with scaled-down versions of Microsoft programs including Excel, PowerPoint and Word, as well as security software.

And, like the BlackBerry, the device will come without a camera, in an effort to appeal to IT managers' budgetary sensibilities. It is also devoid of Wi-Fi.

As well as capitalising on the popularity of mobile email, Sony Ericsson is hoping the device — which is just 15mm thick and comes in black or white — will also charm the visually discerning.

A Sony Ericsson spokesman said: "It's the iPod among messaging devices. A lot of consumers buy with their eyes."

Despite bearing all the hallmarks of the smartphone, such as a multitasking operating system, the device will be advertised to potential buyers as a 'messaging device', the spokesman said.

Sony Ericsson has also announced new functionality for the previously announced but yet to launch P990 smartphone, including the addition of push email support, Wi-Fi and business card reading functionality.

Both the P990 and the M600 will be available from the second quarter of this year.