Just like the N95 before it (the higher-numbered models are older), the N85 is a two-way slider, which turns out a standard number keypad from the bottom and media playback/gaming keys from the top. It packs one of the best-looking AMOLED screens we've seen so far and comes with all the good things (along with the bad) we've come to expect from higher-end Nokia devices.
The N85 features a clever design that tapers inwards, making it both look a tad smaller and feel better in the hand. Most would also likely appreciate the attractive-looking backlit icons used throughout the phone, which changes depending on what feature you're using (e.g. when playing games, the game icons get highlighted instead of the media playback ones).
Display is a bit limited at 2.6 inches (with 320 x 240 resolution) though you'll definitely appreciate the longer battery life due to the OLED display. We're poised to be seeing a lot more OLED handsets this year but I really credit the N85 as being the first one with onboard display that's virtually indistinguishable from TFT.
Calls are great, as per Nokia standards, while texting is probably as comfortable as it can get on non-QWERTY keys. Multimedia is good, to the point that you can probably ditch the iPod if memory isn't an issue (it comes with just nominal storage, along with an SD card slot for up to 8GB).
Camera quality is pretty good on the 5 megapixel optics, although there is a noticeable lag (as with other Nokia phones we've looked at) when shooting. Other features include GPS (with Nokia Maps pre-installed), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, radio tuner (with transmitter, so you can feed it to external output devices) and very fast 3G. The controls available from the default browser on the device aren't the best, however, which is sad, because pages load really fast on the N85.
While a good phone overall, the high price point of the Nokia N85 makes it a pretty difficult handset to recommend. Considering the wealth of options available for consumers with the cash to blow, choosing this over other smartphones can prove a difficult proposition.
Photo Credit: Unwired View
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