Nokia Lumia 1020 64GB smartphone will arrive in UK exclusive to O2

Handset features a 41MP camera

Telefonica has confirmed the 64GB version of Nokia's Lumia 1020, 41MP camera phone will be exclusively available in the UK on its O2 4G network.

The network carrier confirmed the news during the UK launch event of the Lumia 1020. The 16GB and 32GB models of the Nokia Lumia 1020 were originally launched in the US exclusively on AT&T. The device was first unveiled in July in New York. It is the first Windows Phone from Nokia to feature a Pureview 41MP camera lens.

Other key features include a 4.5in Amoled HD+, 1280x768, 720p Gorilla Glass 3 coated display, 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and 2,000mAh battery. According to Nokia, the display comes loaded with the same high-brightness, sunlight readability, super-sensitive touch and ClearBlack technologies as the firm's previous flagship smartphone, the Lumia 925.

The 1020 will require a snap-on shell for wireless charging.

The news comes just after Microsoft announced plans to purchase the mobile wing of Nokia. The deal was confirmed by Microsoft and Nokia earlier in September. The deal will see Microsoft pay €3.79bn for the unit. The deal will also see Microsoft pay €1.65bn to license Nokia's patents for 10 years, making a total transaction price of €5.44bn. The deal is set to close in the first quarter of 2014 and will see Nokia's design, manufacturing and marketing team merge into Microsoft's business.

The Nokia Lumia 1020 is available for purchase now, check back with V3 later for a full review, or check out our current hands-on preview.