Nokia launches 'walkie talkie' phone

HELSINKI: The world's largest mobile phone maker Nokia launched its first handset that also acts as a "walkie talkie," allowing users to speak immediately at the push of a button.

Nokia said the 5140 model would be available during the second quarter of next year. The phone's main feature, also called "push to talk," allows users to instantly speak to one or more people, with the service generating extra cash for operators on top of people's regular cellphone subscription fees.

"During 2004, Nokia will introduce a full range of push-to-talk capable GSM phones... From 2005 onwards push to talk will become available for all Nokia (GPRS and 3G) phones," Nokia said in a statement.

"Push to talk" is currently offered in the United States by operators Nextel and Verizon Wireless, a joint venture of Verizon and Vodafone Group.