STUTTGART, Germany – Following in the footsteps of its bigger, older brother, the Nokia N97 mini was unveiled this morning atNokia World 09. Sporting new homescreen widgets and a host of usability improvements, the N97 mini still packs 8GB of storage, a 3.2-inch touchscreen and full QWERTY keyboard into its 14.2mm thin frame. It’s also the first Nokia device to sport Lifecasting with Ovi – a new partnership with the world’s largest social network, Facebook. The N97 mini is based on the same tilt display design of its N97 big brother, built into a smaller body complete with new design touches. Lifecasting enables users to update their Facebook status directly from the device’s homescreen. It doesn’t stop there though as location details can also be updated, enabling a whole new level of social sharing and communication. With the ability to completely customise the homescreen, users will be able to make their N97 mini truly unique.

The 3.2-inch touchscreen opens up a new world of software improvements including flick scrolling and a range of new experiences including new homescreen widgets. What’s more, the software update will also be available next month for existing N97 devices.

The Nokia N97 mini works seamlessly with Ovi Store where users can add new applications, widgets, ringtones and other content to their device. It also sports Ovi Maps and comes with integrated A-GPS and compass along with with voice navigation for driving or walking. Over 155,000 points of interest are also available through Lonely Planet guides and restaurants through Michelin Guides.

Up to 12 days standby time are on offer and up to 28 hours music playback (in offline mode). The 5-megapixel camera comes with dual LED flash and video light, along with a Carl Zeiss Tessar lens. The 8GB of on board memory can be expanded to 24GB with the addition of a 16GB microSD card.

The Nokia N97 mini will be available next month for an estimated retail price of EUR450 before taxes and subsidies. Check out our preview gallery below. And see the Social Media Release here.