Nokia has announced that its much-anticipated first touchscreen device – the 5800 XpressMusic – is now shipping in selected markets around the world, including Russia, Spain, India, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Finland. The device is considered the world’s largest handset vendor’s response to Apple’s iPhone, and follows the recent launch of touchscreen devices by other rival handset vendors such as Samsung, LG, HTC and Research In Motion. The 5800 is also the second major handset launched by Nokia that supports its pioneering ‘Comes With Music’ service; the first – the 5310 XpressMusic – was unveiled in the UK last month. However, it is thought that the 5800 will not begin supporting Comes With Music until early next year.

Nokia said last month that the device would cost €279 before operator subsidies and taxes, making it significantly cheaper than the iPhone. The music-orientated device includes a graphic equalizer, 8GB memory able to store up to 6,000 tracks, support for all main digital music formats, a 3.5mm jack and built-in surround sound stereo speakers. Accessing music, video and photos is made via a one-touch ‘Mediabar’ drop down menu that also offers a direct link to the Web and to online sharing. The device is believed to be the first in a series of touchscreen products from the vendor; it has previously hinted that it could soon launch a new touchscreen device as part of its Nseries range.