The Nokia C3 is set to be the first QWERTY device running the S40 operating system and has to be one of the most eagerly awaited entry-level handsets for some time. Now, it looks set to launch in June but budget buyers may need to wait until August to get our hands on it here in the UK. Read on to find out more about the Nokia C3 hitting pre-pay in August.

The Nokia C3 is a cracking little handset that uses a non-touchscreen display measuring in at 2.4 inches. The 320 x 240-pixel resolution is the same as most other devices of this size, providing a good compromise between cost, image quality and usability.

Check out our Nokia C3 hands-on Preview

Nokia has also updated the software for the Nokia C3 to make it easier than ever to get the best out of that QWERTY keypad and access your favourite social networking apps, with one-click access to Nokia Messaging. It’s also easier than ever to create an Ovi Mail and Ovi Chat account, with Favourite Contacts keeping you in constant touch with those that matter most.

Vodafone will be the first telco to carry the Nokia C3 and according to its website will be offering the Nokia C3 in June. However, if you're looking for a real bargain and hoping to pick the Nokia C3 up as a pre-pay device, you'll need to wait until August. At least, that is the suggestion on the Play.com site, who is listing the handset for £79.99 (inc. VAT) delivered.

Now, nothing has shown up on Nokia Online for the Nokia C3 and we've had no official word from Nokia itself as to when the Nokia C3 will be shipping. Still, June sounds like a safe bet for what could well be the messenger phone for the summer.

What do you think, like what the Nokia C3 has to offer? Let us know what you think in the Comments below.