The Nokia 5330 Mobile TV edition launches today, ushering in a new era for Mobile TV. The stunning-looking device is sure to drive appeal amongst the 300 million people expected to be watching mobile TV around the world by 2012. The 5330 isn’t just about Mobile TV though, this 3G speed machine also packs in the latest in social networking, music and gaming in one sleek slide-design.

Based on DVB-H technology, the Nokia 5330 Mobile TV edition sports a 2.4-inch screen for super sharp images on the move. The headset doubles as an antennae for clear reception and together with Nokia’s own Electronic Programme Guide (EPG) it makes watching TV on the move a joy.

The device also packs Nokia Messaging so users can keep on top of email and Instant Messaging, the latter supporting Windows Live Messenger, Google Talk, Yahoo! Messenger, ICQ and AOL amongst others. Pictures are taken care of by the 3.2-megapixel snapper, whilst dedicated music keys take care of the audio side of things. It’ll also sport links to Nokia Music Store, where available and the device is also compatible with Comes with Music.

No need to worry about the 5330 running out of juice before the final whistle either. With six hours of battery for TV watching, you’ll be able to watch a couple of matches and still have time for a few calls. Standby time runs to about 14 days on this series 40 based device.

More than 30 operators around the world are rolling out Mobile TV services now, with Austria, Finland, Ghana, Kenya, India, Italy, Namibia, Nigeria, Netherlands, Philippines and Switzerland all boasting services. It’s expected that another 20 countries will be offering mobile TV within the next two years.

The Nokia 5330 Mobile TV edition will retail for €155 before taxes and subsidies.