In a keynote speech at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, Nokia CEO Stephen Elop explained that the company plans to make it easier for developers and operators to make money with its smartphones based on Microsoft’s Windows Phone OS. “We’re creating a platform to attract third party developers that’s far friendlier and far more aligned with the interests of operators all over the world,” he claimed. He touted partnerships with Michelin Travel, Red Bull, Kraft Foods and other major brands.
In addition, Elop stated that Nokia offers operator billing with 140 carriers in 40 countries; the company has found that app purchases increase by a factor of five when operator billing is available.