Nokia in talks with many chipmakers for WP phones

The first Nokia phones running on Windows Phone software after a February deal with Microsoft will use Qualcomm processors, according to a Friday report. But the Finnish phone maker is in talks with other chipset manufacturers for future Windows Phone handsets. Microsoft will work with other chipmakers at the same time, with one strong candidate being ST-Ericsson, claiming today it will supply Nokia's handsets.

"The first Nokias based on Windows Phone will have the Qualcomm chipset," a Nokia spokesperson said. The same person confirmed ST-Ericsson was one of the companies involved in negotiations.

STMicroelectronics said the company foresees Nokia Windows Phone devices using its chips are due out early next year. Nokia already uses ST-Ericsson chips in phones that don't use Windows Phone. STMicroelectronics chief Carlo Bozotti said ST-Ericsson would be one of two chip suppliers, at least when Nokia initially ships its Windows Phone handsets.

In the past, Microsoft insisted Windows Phone devices must use a Qualcomm Snapdragon processor for a consistent experience, both for performance and for making updates simple.

By Electronista Staff