Nokia has announced at the Consumer Electronics Show that it will bring a US-optimized version of the Nokia E63 smartphone to the North American market.

E63

Nokia said that the E63, said to be a stripped down version of the E71, will soon be available for $279.00.

Like the E71, the E63 sports a QWERTY keypad and is powered by Symbian S60 3rd Edition.

Differences between the E63 and the E71 are a bit considerable. The E71's body is made of steel, while Nokia made use of plastics for the E63. The E71 has HSDPA connectivity, while the E63 only has 3G. Finally, the E71 has 2.5mm audio out while the E63 has the standard 3.5mm which will be appreciated by music fans who want to use their own headsets.

Corporate types who want a cheaper option can have an E63: It can handle corporate or personal email including Mail for Exchange, Lotus Notes and a variety of standard consumer ISPs.

Nokia said that the E63 comes with a free 1GB Files on Ovi subscription for online file storage. Files on Ovi is a service where people can get remote access to their PC files even when their computer is offline.

Just like in other markets, the E63 for North America will be available in ruby red or ultramarine blue, and may be purchased unlocked a wide choice of retail channels in the United States.