The n900's hardware is currently unbeatable. As for software (OS, applications, etc) it's in a constant state of flux. Things are improving by the day. As of 2010/04/11,

What it's excellent at:

- Web browsing/flash
- Skype, IM messaging
- Multimedia (lots of codecs)
- Ourdoor (video)camera
- Unix functionality (you may find a use in the future)
- Exchange sync and contact organization
- Document editing (full openoffice support)
- Connectivity (bluetooth / wifi / USB)
- Stability and performance (especially when overclocking, which it loves!)
- Navigation (with Sygic navigator)
- Multitasking

What it's decent at:

- Productivity (email client is OK, but not great; calendar is weak)
- Phone functionality (phone works fine, but lacks some call management features)
- Indoor photos (low light)
- Gaming

What it's terrible at:

- Battery life (I average ~24h per charge, meaning a charge every night)
- GSM frequency support (I forget which bands it lacks, but it does not support them all, so 3G can be limited)
- Simplicity. Some see this as a positive: The interface is very powerful and configurable, and pulls no punches. But, for those who want something braindead simple, it's not the right choice.

Personally, it happens to be the best technology thing I've ever owned. Like others have said, if you're looking for a pocket computer that happens to have a GSM radio/telephony, this is the best device money can buy. If you're looking for a phone with a great web browser, it's competitive. If you're looking for a business tool or fashion accessory, Blackberry/iPhone's a better choice.

My $0.02.

I've used mobile phones since analogue days over 13 years ago. Have gone through at least 15 phones. Philips, Nokia, Ericsson etc.

Phone app - yes, it's not as good as it can be. But I haven't missed a single call due to an issue with the app. Dunno, iPhone phone didn't seem any better last time I tried.

Call log - just install extended call log. easy.

No mms - yeah. I use fmms. Does the job okay enough.

BT - Dunno. I haven't used BT headset. So maybe it's bad?

Maps - yeah. it sux with no voice guided navigation. Just use Sygic or wait and hope Nokia does something about it. But you can't say all other phones come with free turn by turn navigation. iPhone doesn't if I remember correctly and Windows Mobile doesn't either.

There's always going to be a bad side to every phone. I can list much more negative important stuff about other phones than the N900. =P

Bluetooth stereo works flawlessly (including AVRCP for track control). I used it all winter, every day, with several different headsets.

If your looking for a top smartphone then i wouldn't advise getting the N900. If your also looking to download countless safe apps and games then again this device probably isn't for you.
Also take into account that the N900 relies heavily on external developer support. At the moment Nokia don't seem to give 2 **** about internal support for the device.

For the average joe i would advice either iphone or a droid device.

Thanks to everyone that contributed here. I think I am going to go out and get the phone. That means I need to get T-mobile as well so will be switching from Sprint to T-mobile. T-mobile doesn't require you to sign a contract which works out perfectly. If the day ever comes that the N900 will be history and one of the other providers has a phone I like, switching will be easy. Sprint service works very poorly in my Queens NY home. It's not bad in general, but I happen to live in a total Sprint dead spot.

Well, then, welcome aboard.

If you do end up going for it, remember that it's pretty different than most phones, so come back when/if you have trouble. There are lots of great, helpful and intelligent people on this forum and no doubt answers to all your questions.

I am deff going for it. I am just deciding if I should head to the Nokia store in Manhattan tomorrow or just place an order.

I was much like you a few months ago, I had read up on the device and the things that appealed to me in particular were the browser, integration of IM/SMS and the vast codec support. However i was apprehensive as i knew nothing of programming or that kind of stuff.
One month after buying i am totally in love with this phone, and because of this brilliant forum i have even dabbled in a bit of modding, i have flashed the global firmware and overclocked the processor
In a way getting this phone has also given me more knowledge of computers and stuff so its educational!

Thanks for letting me know. I will update you guys when I get the phone. If I go to the store, I will have it tom. I think I am going to order it though. I will update everyone.

It's not really a fantastic native gaming device. There aren't many publishers for it. That said there is emulation, but emulation drains the battery exponentially.

If you want an app rich platform steer clear. Microsofts WP7 comes out at the end of the year, and iPhone OS 4 is due out in the American summer. Both look promising.