The Mobile World Congress recently settled on final nominations for its ‘Best Mobile Handset or Device’ category in preparation for the Global Mobile Awards 2008, so obviously we’re keen to see what’s been chosen, if only so we can disagree.

The nominations are (drumroll) the innovative 3 Skypephone, for offering mobile access to free Skype calling on the move. We also have the Nokia 6500 Classic for its timeless lines and classy looks and Samsung’s G600 for its impressive slide design and 5MP camera. Finally the SonyEriccson W910 wowed the judges with its musical prowess and HSDPA connectivity, and LG sneaked in with the Viewty KU990 for being a good all-rounder and utilising a touchscreen that actually works.

Most would agree that these are all worthy contenders, but the glaring omission from our perspective is rather obviously the excellent Nokia N95 8GB. Being one of the most unique and groundbreaking phones currently available, we’re particularly surprised to see the 6500 taking its place, even if it does look great. Others may bemoan the omission of the iPhone, though for us some glaring holes in its armour left us rather disappointed, at least features and performance-wise, upon its release.

There’s a gala awards dinner on the 12th of February at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona to decide the winner and while we weren’t lucky enough to be able to blag tickets, you can be sure we’ll be getting back with the results in due course.

Mobile Phones UK have covered all of the finalists with extensive reviews. Check our their LG Viewty Review, Nokia N95 8GB Review, Nokia 6500 Classic Review and their Samsung G600 Review.

For an alternative viewpoint Recommended Buys have reviews of their own for several of these phones. Take a look at their LG Viewty Review, Nokia 6500 Classic Review and their Samsung G600 Review