Nokia N82 spotted in live shot

Nokia's expected but so far only hinted-at N82 smartphone has been spotted in prototype form with improvements since its first appearance, according to a report from a Russian source. Unlike the gaming- and music-oriented N81, the new device is once again confirmed to be closer to a candybar adaptation of the popular N95 slider: the handset should still carry a 5-megapixel camera, a true GPS receiver for mapping, and Wi-Fi for short-range wireless Internet. The update additionally suggests that the N82 will have 3G data access for North America through HSDPA and legacy support for EDGE.

Teasers posted by Nokia in recent weeks suggest an official announcement of the N82 may come as soon as November 2nd with a release by the end of the year in at least one region. Support for American and Canadian networks would indicate a release in the area, though it remains unclear whether this will involve introductions through local carriers or will limit sales to an unlocked version similar to the N95.