The Nokia N8 has finally got an official release date from Nokia after much speculation online.

The Nokia N8 will be released across networks from the 1st October , although it will be available direct from Nokia in the last couple of days in September. Infact, you can pre-order the mobile from Nokia direct right now with it costs £429.00 Sim-free.

We'd expect a marketing barrage over the next few weeks , as the N8 is the most important smartphone Nokia has launched in a long time.

It not only marks the introduction of the Symbian^3 operating system , but is also the first real feature phone launched by Nokia since the N900. They are no doubt aiming to take on the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy S and other top smartphones and it will take a great mobile and a big advertising spend to succeed.

We're not sure how many networks will carry the Nokia N8, but its been confirmed that Vodafone will be launching the mobile and will get it in an exclusive Lime green colour. We also know that both O2 and T-Mobile will be carrying the Nokia N8.

You can register your interest and get updates on the Nokia N8 on Vodafone by clicking here.