Nokia, Microsoft Sign Digital Media Software Deal

Feb. 15–NEW YORK — Nokia Corp. of Finland announced Monday that the world’s top cellphone maker and Microsoft Corp. of the United States have agreed to collaborate on digital media software that would enable consumers to enjoy digital music around the world.

The agreement between Nokia and the world’s largest software company “makes it easier for consumers to download music they want to listen to, without having to worry about whether or not the file format is supported — it’s all about enabling choice without compromising compatibility,” said Anssi Vanjoki, executive vice president and general manager of Nokia’s Multimedia Business Group.

Nokia said it made the announcement with Microsoft in Cannes, France, where Vanjoki and other Nokia and Microsoft executives were attending the 3GSM World Congress.

Starting immediately, the Finnish company said, operator can provide their customers access and download of music using the mobile music solution from Nokia and digital media company Loudeye, allowing instance access to purchase content through Nokia handsets or Windows XP-based PCs.

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