Sony Ericsson sexes up mobile email with iPod-esque device

It may remind you of an iPod but it's not meant to remind you of a smart phone - Sony Ericsson has taken the wraps off its newest messaging-focused phone.

The M600 is the latest Symbian OS-based phone to come out of the Sony Ericsson stable and is aimed at push-email-hungry users. It comes with support for Microsoft's ActiveSync, RIM's BlackBerry Connect and a number of others including Intellisync and Seven's offerings.

The device also comes equipped with scaled-down versions of Microsoft programs including Excel, PowerPoint and Word, as well as security software.

And, like the all conquering BlackBerry, the device will come without a camera, in an effort to appeal to IT managers' budgetary sensibilities. It is also devoid of wi-fi.

As well as capitalising on the popularity of mobile email, Sony Ericsson is hoping the device – which is just 15mm thick and comes in black or white - will also charm the visually discerning.

A Sony Ericsson spokesman said: "It's the iPod among messaging devices. A lot of consumers buy with their eyes."

Despite bearing all the hallmarks of the smart phone, such as a multitasking operating system, the device will be advertised to potential buyers as a 'messaging device', the spokesman said.

Sony Ericsson has also announced new functionality for the previously announced but yet to launch P990 smart phone, including the addition of push email support, WLAN and business card reading functionality.

Both the P990 and the M600 will be available from the second quarter of this year.