After what seems like an exceedingly long development time, Nokia will release their much awaited Nokia N97 smartphone next month reports idealo.

Prospective N97 hopefuls can even pre-order the Nokia N97 online; so could the Nokia N97 be the oft spoke about iPhone challenger? Or will the Nokia N97 be like all the rest and simply fade into mobile oblivion like so many other Nokia models?

I have to say I do like the look of the Nokia N97, and it does stand a good chance of at least matching the iPhone as it has 32GB of memory which can be expanded further by 16GB, a 5 megapixel camera beating the iPhone, GPS, Skype as well, and applications via the Nokia Ovi Store.

In the UK, O2 is the only operator to confirm they will offer the Nokia N97 which will be available in June.