Finnish handset maker Nokia has begun shipping its Meego-based first as well as last smartphone, called the Nokia N9.

The Nokia N9, which will not be launched in some key markets such as the US and the UK, comes equipped with a 3.9-inch AMOLED touchscreen, an 8-megapixel camera, the company’s turn-by-turn navigation software, and up to 64GB of storage.

The new device also offers NFC (near-field communication) technology that will allow users to make payments via the handset.

The manufacturer claims that the N9 has been designed for those who carve for exceptional design, craftsmanship and the innovative smartphone technology.

Speaking on the topic, Nokia executive Ilari Nurmi said, "Since we announced the N9 in June this year, the feedback [we've had] from discerning and avid smartphone users across the world has been nothing short of fantastic.”

The Finnish manufacturer will use neither Meego nor Symbian smartphone platform for its future handsets as the company’s upcoming handsets will run Microsoft's new Windows Phone mobile operating system.

Details of Nokia’s first Windows Phone-based handset will be disclosed on 26th and 27th of October in London, as the embattled manufacturer is losing market share to rivals like Apple and Samsung.