Nokia desktop web browser to join Chrome, Safari

Nokia is developing a full-fledged web browser for the desktop, Eldar Murtazin confirmed today after getting access to a beta. The famed target of Nokia said Ovi Browser would be based on WebKit, like Nokia's mobile web browser as well as Apple's Safari and Google Chrome, but would tie directly into Ovi services. Users could shop some of the Ovi Store and check their calendars, contacts and e-mail.

The browser's public availability isn't known, but Nokia has strongly hinted at the plan with a Twitter account and both Beta Labs and Ovi download pages that are locked but clearly reference Ovi Browser.

Nokia's reasons behind creating the browser aren't entirely evident. As many of the features are already accessible on the web, Murtazin noted that the efforts could largely be wasted as other browsers achieve the same effect. Nokia may be hoping to emphasize a link between Ovi on the desktop and on its phones to encourage the use of its services. It may also be simply following in Google's steps by adding a desktop browser to complement its phone app. [via Unwired View]

By Electronista Staff

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