Hi,

I'm a newbie to this forum, the N900 and Maemo myself. Had the N900 since christmas, and would have to say that you need to think about why you want an N900 very carefully before you get one.

I've got mixed feelings myself.

Yes, the N900 is a fantastic piece of technology, and the developers here seem to be incredibly keen on making it work.

However, what it is not, and where other phones win over it (even less technically capable phones) is the user experience. It's not a flawless experience by any stretch of the imagination.

If you're looking for a tool you can make the most of, out of the box, stay with the Iphone, that device at least is geared for the end user. If you want the most of the N900 you need to be prepared to delve into Linux a lot further than the average user is prepared too.

If you are an average user, with little linux knowledge you'll find this device very underwhelming. It is not a computer in your pocket. I have a computer, if I want to extend it's functionality I install the relevant program that i've either bought or got for free. I don't have to write, port or ask someone to develop the program for me. Until Nokia get a store working where developers can get paid for their programs, why should they waste their time devoloping for a platform the manufacturer doesn't even seem to be supporting very well.

As for it being open source, all well and good if you are a developer, rubbish if you are just a user who wants to get the most out of your device.

So while the N900 has got huge potential, it is still just potential. I'd steer clear at least for a few months to see what develops.