Editions

• The Nokia N73 smartphone comes in several editions. Two are the Standard and Music. When comparing these models, consider the inner workings of the smartphone (firmware) and the outer appearance (hardware).
  
  

Firmware

• Both of these N73 editions are similar, and the firmware, as of early 2010, is exactly the same for each. This means that the smartphone operating system functions identically in both versions. The preloaded applications, themes, sound profiles and interface are all alike. (The only reason the smartphones would function differently is if one has an older firmware version than another. In this case, the N73 with the older version would gain functionality by upgrading to the latest firmware.)
  
  

Hardware

• The differences of the these Nokia N73 editions are noticeable only in the hardware, or the physical appearance and casing, of each device. In order to market to different demographics, a manufacturer will often simply alter the packaging and the visual appeal of a previously existing model. The colors, materials and buttons vary slightly from version to version.
  
  

Main Differences

• The Standard Edition is the original version of the Nokia N73. It has a dark plum casing with a soft metallic feel. The front of the smartphone is a flat gray with chrome accents. This model would appeal more to a business person, or someone looking strictly for a smartphone.
  
  The N73 Music Edition has a completely black, glossy, plastic housing. The "multimedia" button found on the standard edition is replaced with a "music player" button on this version. The packaging and marketing of this smartphone are geared more toward a younger, music-loving audience.
  
  

Decision Time

• When a smartphone has been on the market for some time, the manufacturer has tested and retested the operating system, or firmware. For this reason, a universal, updated firmware is often released that makes "special edition" devices virtually the same as the original. In the case of the Nokia N73, it seems that the only real choice you have to make is what color you like best.