Nokia today said it would start selling a new handset, the 6212 Classic, with integrated Near Field Communication (NFC). NFC allows users to share content by connecting two phones which can receive audio files and other downloads from service providers simultaneously. The phone can also be used for payments.

Nokia 6212 Classic More Photos View Specs

By tapping an NFC-enabled tag, users can receive content such as weblinks, audio files or contact data. Consumers can activate profiles in their handsets or open applications like FM radios or web browsers. Photos and videos can be shared by tapping another NFC-capable phone and pairing with a Bluetooth NFC-enabled device happens with one touch.

The 6212 Classic can also be used as a travel ticket or for mobile payments. Travel tickets can be charged over the air, so there is no need to wait at the service counter. Users can store their credit card information on the device and access their account online directly from the handset. Security for transactions is assured by allowing payment only when users expressly authorizes the transaction via an additional passcode.

The Nokia 6212 Classic allows users to personalize and edit their own NFC tags, be it for writing calendar entries or setting the alarm clock. The sales pack of the Nokia 6212 Classic comes with three sticker tags, one of which opens the NFC introduction in the phone.

"NFC-capable handsets such as the Nokia 6212 Classic are set to change the way mobile phone users interact with devices and services in their surroundings," says Jeremy Belostock, the Head of Near Field Communications, Nokia. "With the Nokia 6212 Classic, people can swap items like business cards or calendar notes by simply tapping their handsets together. With ever-increasing device functions and services available, ease-of-use is essential. One way to keep things simple is NFC."

The slim 6212 Classic comes with an extensive set of features such as a 2.0-megapixel camera, bright 2.0-inch QVGA display, stereo FM radio and music player supporting multiple formats. An optional microSD memory card of up to 4 GB provides ample space for personal content such as images and songs.

The Nokia 6212 Classic is expected to start shipping in the third quarter of 2008 in select markets in Europe and Asia with an estimated retail price of EUR 200 ($316 USD) before taxes and subsidies.

- Nokia 6212 Classic Specs