Nokia 3650 was announced on September 6, 2002. While still running Symbian OS 6.1 and the initial version of Series 60 interface, the new model incorporates a series of changes and improvements making it a serious upgrade to the Nokia 7650 model.

Nokia 3660, announced on 9th October 2003, is basically a new version of the 3650 model with more traditional keypad and the screen upgraded to display 65,536 colors. All the following information about the 3650 also applies to the 3660 model.

The 3600 and 3620 models are American versions of the 3650 and 3660 models, accordingly.

Just like Nokia 7650, the 3650 is equipped with digital camera. The camera still offers VGA resolution (640x480, 24-bit) but this time the device also incorporates a video recording software making it possible to record short movies. Video Player and RealOne Player are also included for both local and streaming playback of multimedia content.

Nokia 3650 preserves full compatibility with the previous model, which makes it possible to use most of Nokia 7650 software on the new device. Some programs are also available in a special Nokia 3650 version, taking advantage of all enhancements and new features.

One of the most important improvements over the 7650 is support for memory cards (Multimedia Cards - MMC). By using a memory card, you can enhance the internal storage memory by up to 128 megabytes providing you with enough space to install dozens of applications, store video clips, data, audio files and more.

Unlike 7650, the 3650 uses XPress-on covers that let you quickly change the look of your phone. Nokia offers 6 different covers (3 colors and 3 patterns) and many others are available from 3rd party manufacturers. Among other useful enhancements one can find add-on lenses designed to take close-up pictures at short distances, digital pen that remembers what you write, so you can save and send digital copies of colorful handwritten notes to a compatible phone or PC or image viewer that displays digital images on TV screen or video projector.

Nokia 3650 is lighter than 7650 (130 gram), but slightly larger than 7650 with keypad closed (129.5h x 52.7w x 25.6d mm). Its round keypad requires getting used to but works well and provides immediate access without having to open it. Joystick has been replaced with a round five way key providing the same functionality.

Among hardware improvements one can find extended Bluetooth functionality. Nokia 3650 supports Bluetooth audio, but its compatibility (due to using different than 'common' profiles) is limited mainly to Nokia wireless headsets. Some other manufacturers (like Jabra) offer modifications that make their headsets work with the 3650. Nokia 3650 uses new type of Lithium-Ion battery, much slimmer and lighter. Its capacity (850 mAh) provides up to 200 hours of standby and 2-4 hours of talk time.

Just as the 7650, Nokia 3650 supports HSCSD and GPRS transmission, infrared connectivity, multimedia messaging (MMS) and is a fully open platform making it possible to install third party applications. With reach selection of Symbian applications, but also Java MIDP midlets as well as OPL and MobileVB (Visual Basic) programs, you will quickly need the largest available memory card to provide enough storage space and use your device to its extent. Full and always up-to-date collection of freeware and commercial applications available for the Nokia 3650 can be found on our Applications list. Last but not least, Nokia 3650 is a tri-band (900/1800/1900 MHz) world phone.

• tri-band phone (900/1800/1900 MHz)
• video recording software built-in
• memory card slot - up to 128 MB of additional storage memory for data and applications
• improved Bluetooth functionality - Bluetooth audio
• better, smaller and lighter battery
• XPress-on covers
• improved camera
• video playback software - Video Player and RealOne Player
• improved XHTML/WAP browser
• slightly cheaper
• accessories: add-on lenses, digital pen, image viewer and more

• "plastic", cheaper look and feel
• keyboard requires getting used to
• problems with 3rd party Bluetooth headsets
• no USB connectivity
• memory card slot hidden inside - no hot swap

Nokia 3650 is an important upgrade to the 7650 especially because its memory cards support making it possible for users to install more software and data and for the developers to create more advanced applications, with rich graphics and audio and extended data (eg. dictionaries). Its improved camera, video recording functions and imaging accessories (like add-on lenses) can be a good choice for multimedia enthusiasts. It is aimed at young users, thus its extravagant look and keypad, but given its extended functions it should not repel more advanced users who can take great advantage of large storage space.