Nokia's original N95 was pitched as a 'total mobile solution', something that has often been promised by others, yet never really matched people's perceptions. Nokia's attempt did. It was a huge success in Nokia's canon, no doubt their flagship device, replete with every single thing one could hope for. So they decided to make it better.

The N95 8GB is a huge phone in no uncertain terms, in terms of expectations as well as literally, adding a couple of grams to tip the scales at 128g. The trade-off is that they've managed to increase the original N95's screen size to 2.8 inches, making a great screen even better.

 It is a handsome phone, but such a textbook Nokia N-series design is never going to get the heart racing. The slider covers the keypad, whilst the sizable screen has a bewildering array of buttons beneath. The iconic Nokia d-pad is surrounded by all manner of buttons of differing shapes. Some of these are definitely more fiddly than functional, but are totally necessary given what the 8GB can do.

If that wasn't enough, the slider also moves in the other direction, reveling a set of simple controls for media manipulation. Granted they are basics for skipping and playing items, but dedicated controls are entirely welcome.  Despite all these buttons and hidden compartments, the phone still manages to avoid looking cluttered, with the metallic front plate being offset by the colourful back. The only problem is that the bunch of buttons on the slider is normally where one would push to reveal the keypad, making the process slightly fiddly.

The back is also where you can catch a glimpse of the Carl Zeiss 5 megapixel lens, an impressive autofocus number with a variety of modes, but only an integrated LED flash.  There are also specific camera keys on the side to allow the handset to be held in landscape when taking a photo. They needed to make the most of that lovely screen, plus the phone is a little too heavy top heavy to hold in that traditional camera phone manner. Unfortunately, the physical shutter that covered the N95's lens has gotten the chop, meaning the 8GB's is victim to the elements. The camera functionality does work a little more swiftly though, despite still taking (what feels like) an age to boot up.

To say that this phone has it all is no exaggeration. Full multimedia support for all major formats, a 3.5mm headphone jack, connectivity across all types from USB to Bluetooth and wi-fi, even a TV out option. 8GB of internal memory is ample for whatever you want to do, and it better be as there is no microSD slot any longerSupport for the N-Gage gaming network is also available, allowing for some downloadable games of varying quality. Connecting was a breeze and the d-pad certainly can handle itself during a frantic play session. However, the risk of pressing other buttons by accident was high, forcing the keypad to be used as an alternative when possible.

The GPS solution integrating Nokia Maps is novel, a robust alternative to software like Google Maps, pointing out areas of interest and important landmarks nearby. For full turn-by-turn and navigational aid, a monthly subscription is required, but the basic package is more than enough. Even touches like stereo speakers on the side of the phone give the impression that Nokia was going all out to wow with the N95 8GB, it is above and beyond expectations.

The browser is such a joy to use, the perfect balance between a lithe mobile browser and the full-fat desktop alternative. Flash playback, easy downloading capabilities, all of the important features are retained whilst the extra ram allows for fast loading of content and swift navigation.

The traditional feature of telephony was something that Nokia was never going to mess up, and the N95 8GB doesn't disappoint in the slightest. Reception is amazing, with train journeys that normally would experience frequent cutouts remaining clear as day throughout. The stereo speakers allow for a brilliant speakerphone, and those in need of a versatile business handset won't be disappointed by the sheer wealth of options.

To upgrade from the N95 to the 8GB is a no-brainer, the added functionality, improved build quality and acres of space make it a purchase you won't regret. What about the newbie? The phone has a few shortcomings with the glut of buttons on the fascia and a slightly bulky nature, making it a little offputting to someone used to a dinky little allrounder. However, after experiencing the breadth of simple yet effective functionality in this smartphone, converts may never want to go back!