Nokia has announced three new handsets - the Nokia C3, Nokia C6 and Nokia E5 - designed to put better messaging and social networking tools in the hands of more people around the world, at affordable prices. These new handsets feature full QWERTY keyboards, and enable access to a range of different email accounts, IM communities and social networks.

"Our messaging device range is very successful," said Anssi Vanjoki, Nokia's Head of Markets. "Services that provide easy access to the world's consumer and corporate email and instant messaging are really popular on our QWERTY smartphones such as the Nokia E71 and Nokia E63. Nokia has introduced a trio of "affordable" Twitter phones.

Nokia's E5: Twitbook ready

The Nokia C3 and E5 are both Qwerty keyboard jobs ready for Twitbook users to scrawl on their walls when they're on the move.

The sober black E5 has more of a work orientation, while the C3 - set to be available in a choice of "golden white, slate grey" or "hot pink" - is aimed at the young social networker. The C6, which as a touchscreen device, is clearly pitched at the more sophisticated punter.

The C3 sports Wi-Fi, a 2.4in colour screen and a 2Mp camera. The C6 has a 3.2in screen, 5Mp autofocus camera and Ovi Maps navigation. Both are due later this quarter, priced at €90 (£80) and €220 (£195), respectively.

The Mail for Exchange and IBM Lotus Notes Traveler supporting E5 will arrive in Q3 for around €180 (£159). Prices are pre-VAT and before whatever subsidy networks may apply. ®