Nokia catalyzes handset evolution - Phone giant to test devices that handoff between 802.11x and public networks.

Nokia executives have revealed plans to deliver high-end cellular handsets that seamlessly switch between 802.11b and public carrier networks in an effort to transform handsets into terminals capable of consuming composite applications.

The switching technology, expected to be deployed in handsets for beta trials toward the end of the year, is designed to extend the reach of enterprise applications and to create new collaboration environments. Although the company has not yet unveiled names for the forthcoming devices, Nokia in April will announce a set of rich applications for vertical markets, including real estate and transportation, executives said.

"We're chasing the next wave of …