Getting Symbian Software for your Nokia

Being a Nokia user for several years, one of my favourite “sports” is to search for new software. There are a lot of good applications, most of them freeware, ranging from Java, Python, Flash and, of course, native Symbian programs.

Today I want to share my usual ways to find new software. If you are new to Symbian you will see it’s not really hard to load your smartphone with games and useful apps. On the other hand, if you are an experienced user maybe you can find a link or two you didn’t already know. Let’s go.

First place to look it is, of course, your own phone. There is an app called “Download” that points to different software categories. Depending on your phone model you can find apps, games, videos or ringtones and some freeware goodies. One of the latest additions is the Ovi Store app, an evolution of “Download” with more content and improvements. The Ovi Store can be checked also from your computer at store.ovi.com.
Another useful tool is the phone Internet browser. The mobile site nokia.mobi has a few goodies to start, and many of the sites I’m going to show you are also mobile friendly.

In Nokia support sites you will find software already included on your phone and some applications worth to try. One tip is to compare the support page of different world areas: sometimes you will find new software that is not available in your regional site. PC Suite and other computer apps are a must for Nokia users, a lot of the hidden power of your phone reveals when you mix it with your PC. It is not just about backup or sending content to the phone, also converting your favourites videos at glance or firmware upgrades.

Another good one is Nokia for Business software site. Besides Microsoft Exchange and BlackBerry Connect clients and other useful tools, there is a whole catalogue of enterprise applications ready for your device. Nokia Beta Labs is the place to go to find new services and products, most of them just for early adopters.

Outside Nokia, there are a lot of sites and interesting blogs. Mobile software stores were on the web for years, for example Handango will show you just the apps and games compatible with your device. SymbianGear, GetJar and Softonic are also good places to check for new software.

I especially like Freeware Symbian which holds more than 1000 free titles. The Betavine community has also rare and free apps you won’t find in other places. It is sponsored by Vodafone operator so another hint here: check your network operator pages, they usually will have some store or developer program to take a look.

There are thousands of Symbian apps you will not find on these catalogues and websites. Independent developers and software companies not always publish their works open wide. Your best option in this case is to Google Bing for it, or subscribe to Nokia Mobile Talk.

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