Nokia, the world leader in mobile communications, today announced the launch of its premium handset Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte. The handset captures the essence of timeless beauty and fine craftsmanship, which would appeal the discerning and style-conscious consumers. The Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte inspired from nature makes a unique statement with its single Sapphire (world’s most durable material) as the center-key. The elegantly designed handset features 3G capabilities to the highly acclaimed Nokia 8800 series along with 3.2 megapixel auto focus camera and boasts a stunning OLED display.

Mr. Devinder Kishore, Director Marketing, Nokia India said,"As part of its premium range, Nokia brings yet another iconic mobile phone. Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte sets the benchmark for quality and craftsmanship. The high-end materials and seamless surfaces celebrate the art of individuality - inspired by natural light with minimalistic design.”

The Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte combines elegant appearance and uncompromised functionality. The handset has a high-end metal and glass composition. A smooth slide mechanism – comprised of state-of-the art ball bearings and a unique spring mechanism – ensures that the handset is a pleasure to touch and behold. The Nokia 8800 Sapphire Arte adds to the sense of exclusivity by further enhancing its polished steel case with a genuine sapphire gem stone and an accent of soft brown napa leather, creating an even richer, sensual feel.

The handset comes with unique tap-for-time and turn-to-mute features while living wallpapers move organically throughout the day to give unique on-screen decoration. By double-tapping the steel surface below the display, an analogue clock appears – indicating time in its most classic form. Incoming calls can be silenced on the phone inconspicuously by simply turning over the phone, screen-side down.

Continuing the tradition of incorporating exclusive soundtracks in its premium handsets, Nokia has created a unique and exclusive soundtrack for the new device composed by internationally-acclaimed master producers Kruder & Dorfmeister with visuals by Fritz Fitzke - adding an extra touch of sophistication and individuality.

Nokia Sapphire Arte comes with an innovative silencing mechanism, which gets activated when the phone is turned over, screen-side down. Meanwhile, Nokia’s new anti-fingerprint coating reduces smudges on metal and glass and unsightly outer seams are hidden with a unique all-in-one microUSB connector.