Nokia updated its handset portfolio, including the official unveiling of its first device powered by the Meego platform, as part of a press launch which only served to highlight some of the issues it is facing. The company, yet again, “restated its commitment to Symbian,” despite the fact that this platform is being phased out in favour of Microsoft’s Windows Phone platform – and with reports that the channel is now lukewarm, at best, to Symbian OS devices. Over the next 12 months, the Finnish giant plans to introduce 10 devices powered by this platform, with the Symbian Anna update for its existing portfolio due to become available in August.

Meanwhile the press release for the new Meego-powered N9 (pictured), described as a “unique all-screen smartphone,” made no reference to the Meego platform at all, and marks the introduction of another “flagship” Nokia device powered by a platform which is no longer central to its long-term strategy. And while Stephen Elop, Nokia’s CEO, told reporters that Nokia is on track to ship its first Windows Phone device later this year, this still means the company currently lacks a device powered by its chosen platform for the future.

The new, flagship N9 differs from other smartphones by not featuring a “home” key – all navigation is done via the touch screen. It has an 8MP camera, and includes NFC contactless commerce support. Sales are scheduled to begin “later this year,” with pricing announced at this time. Away from its smartphone business, Nokia also added three new handsets to its “affordable” device portfolio (C2-02, C2-03 and C2-06). In a statement, Mary McDowell, head of the Mobile Phones business unit, said that “these phones all offer a web, maps and messaging experience second to none in the market. And with the choice of a touch screen or a keypad, we really have made everything available and easy to use in an affordable phone that comes in both dual or single SIM options.” The handsets also ship with a new Nokia Maps for Series 40 app, which stores local maps and places of interest on the handset, to reduce download costs. The three are expected to reach the market in the third quarter of 2011.