Nokia Symbian Anna Released For N8, C7, E7 And C6-01

Nokia has begun the Symbian Anna roll-out, with the updated software beginning to show up for the N8, C7, E7 and C6-01. Bringing a new, portrait orientation soft-keyboard, boosted browser, better iconography and the much-demanded split-screen text entry, the Anna update also activates the NFC chip in the Nokia C7.

Distribution is either OTA – using the software updater app loaded on the phones – or via Nokia's Ovi Suite software for your computer. It's reportedly a fairly sizable download, too, amounting to around 27MB, so it's worth seeking out a WiFi connection if you plan to go the OTA route. User data and apps are reportedly left intact after the update, though some users may find a dual-stage process takes place if their current firmware isn't quite up to date enough for Anna to be added straight on top.

AllAboutSymbian has a full changelog, including such niceties as device encryption support – offering optional hardware-accelerated encryption for the device, mass storage and microSD memory – along with better Mail and Calendar apps, a draggable homescreen and Ovi Maps 3.6 fresh out of Nokia's Beta Labs. The C7 can now share contacts, photos, video and other content via tapping, using the new NFC support, as well as pair with NFC-enabled accessories like the upcoming Play 360 speaker. The N8, meanwhile, will also be prepped for an incoming camera update, which will include a modified UI, continuous auto-focus in video mode and higher frame rate support.