The next model in Nokia's popular N-series has been given a price and a release date for the UK. The Nokia N97, which follows the N96 and the immensely popular N95, departs from the traditional look of its predecessors by coming in a silver casing instead of black.

An online retailer has the mobile device available to pre-order on its site - though a lack of official confirmation from Nokia has caused some bloggers to speculate over whether the listing is legitimate. In any case, the device will probably come packing Nokia's own operating system, Symbian, and could form a challenge to the hugely popular iPhone 3G sold by market-grabber Apple.

As well as the release date, which sits on June 23, the accompanying price was also posted at £689.99 which has caused a stir with mobile phone fans, as many feel it is a steep price tag. However, this may not be the final price Nokia comes up with.

The N97 is to be featured as Nokia's flagship model over some time, according to unofficial Nokia site noknok. It will come with full touchscreen capabilities and serve as Nokia's smartphone gauntlet to battle with other top manufacturers such as Samsung, Motorola, LG and Sony Ericsson.

It is also possible that the device will come equipped with internet calling programme Skype. The smartphone will also challenge business phone maker Research in Motion, which created the famous BlackBerry mobile device that is predominant in many organisations as the ideal phone for the business needs of the staff.