By Paige Freshwater

Copyright dailystar

Tech fans are only just realising the meaning behind Nokia’s name – and just how old the brand is . Launched by Finnish miner Fredrik Idestam, Nokia started out as a single paper mill operation in 1865 before branching out to offer a range of other products throughout the 19th century. It wasn’t until towards the end of the 20th century that the company began producing computers and mobile phones. In 2000, Nokia created its iconic 3310 model, selling millions of units before it was discontinued in 2005. However, even Nokia users are still in the dark about how the company got its name, with some taking to social media in search of answers. According to the company’s website, Idestam opened his second paper pulp factory near the Nokianvirta River, after success in Tammerkoski Rapids. Idestam decided to take the brand’s name from the river – and initially adopted a fish-themed logo to show its connection to the body of water. But the river also took its name from an unlikely source. The company’s website reads: “The first logo of the company in no way resembled the present one. The word ‘nokia’ means a dark, furry animal currently called Pine Marten. “The company began to use the name Nokia after the production had been transferred to a town of the same name. “This small town in the Pirkanmaa region was founded in exactly the same year as Nokia. Approximately thirty thousand people live there today.” Commenting on this revelation on Reddit, one user said: “Finland companies were named after where the company was located.” Another user added: “Is there a statue of 3310 in this town somewhere?” A third user said: “And yet, when I went to Nokia, they only had postcards with cats (at the post office). Not a single mention about the phone. No phone statue at the entrance to the city. I was so disappointed by this visit.” One more user added: “Well, it’s just named after the city. I had a lively online discussion with some Americans once about the pronunciation of Nokia. They didn’t believe me and were adamant they were correct.” Another user said: “The river is important because it was an energy source.” Today, Nokia is a tech world leader, with 104,000 specialists employed worldwide. The website adds: “Driven by research and innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we serve providers of telecommunications services, governments, large businesses and consumers with the most comprehensive portfolio of products, services and licenses in the industry. “From the infrastructure that enables the operation of 5G and the Internet of things, to the developing applications for virtual reality and digital health, we shape the future of technology to transform human experience.”