Nokia USA this weekend stopped selling the American version of the 5800 in its two flagship stores in New York and Chicago, just a few days after the U.S. introduction on February 26. Nokia is now selling the European version of 5800 as a replacement.

Two major issues have instigated the switch from the US model. Firstly, the phone’s earpiece speakers are reportedly not properly protected against moisture. Nokia confirmed this weekend that many of the 5800 handsets delivered worldwide before January 2009 have a problem with the phone’s earpiece, which was not properly protected from moisture ingestions.

Secondly is the phone is having trouble finding AT&T 3G network, which led to many customers returning the phone. Users reported that they were able to get AT&T GSM and EDGE signals, but a 3G signal could not be acquired. Nokia has not responded officially over this 3G connectivity problem, but the company’s two flagship stores are now selling the European version of the 5800 instead. According to Nokia, the reception issue is only affecting New York and Chicago. When looking at purchasing this model, check that it was manufactured after January 09 and that the signal is available before leaving the store.

[via SlashGear]