Nokia Maemo Browser: one step further into a better web in our pockets
With the introduction of the new N900 (available for pre-order in the US here), Nokia will debut its new linux-based Operating System, called Maemo.
Despite the weird name, the OS seems to be very cool and, as one would expect, the highlight is its built-in new browser. With Flash and Web standards support, easy access to history and copy/paste, a nice resolution for a smartphone (800x600) and innovative new gesture controls, the experience seems to get closer to a "full" web navigation done from a computer.
Compared to the iPhone, the Maemo browser has some inevitable similarities, since Safari was the first mobile browser to unlock us from the WAP horror. However, one interesting difference is the gesture made to zoom-in on a page. Instead of the well-known pinching, Nokia added a swirling gesture, as you can see on the video above. Another difference is the fact that Maemo uses Mozilla as its engine, which is good news for those worried about compatibility.
Since the N900 will start selling for USD $649 in the US, the Maemo will probably take a while to become mainstream. In any case, it is always good to see a giant like Nokia bringing a significant evolution to the mobile web experience.
