At the core of the N800 is a conundrum: This device does a number of mobile tasks quite well, but it is missing other key capabilities. That means it won't replace your smart phone or laptop, yet at $400, it is an expensive purchase given its limited functionality.

Nokia could easily bridge much of its functionality gap by including the ability to sync with desktop personal information applications such as Microsoft Outlook. Since the device is based on Linux, there certainly is the potential for additional applications to be available. In fact, a list of currently available add-on applications is available at Maemo.org. But Nokia should include key applications and not expect them to be available separately.

Given its lack of built-in functionality and the fact that the N800 is at least twice as expensive as many leading-edge smart phones, such as or even , the N800 is a tough sell. It is one of those devices that is genuinely fun to use but difficult to justify buying.