Windows Phone to get boost as Microsoft announces it will close the deal on its Nokia acquisition this week. See also: Microsoft buys Nokia - 5 things we now know, and one key question.
The software giant has confirmed that Nokia Devices and Services will be part of the Microsoft business as of April 25. The necessary steps have been taken on the deal which was first announced in September last year.
Nokia took the brave step to take on Windows Phone as its main mobile operating system, becoming a key partner for Microsoft in its battle against Apple's iOS and Google's Android. Read: Nokia Lumia 630 and Lumia 635 hands-on review: Affordable Windows Phone 8.1 smartphones.
Windows Phone acceleration
Microsoft said the move marks a key step towards integration and said it will "accelerate innovation and market adoption for Windows Phones," and added "we look forward to introducing the next billion customers to Microsoft services via Nokia mobile phones."
Windows Phone has been the fastest growing mobile operating system recently but that's not so hard when you start at very low figure. Its market share currently sits at 10 percent but launching Window Phone 8.1 this summer could be another turning point.
See: How to download Windows Phone 8.1
Microsoft revealed that the acquisition will include the nokia.com domain and Nokia's social media channels for up to a year. Microsoft will no longer obtain Nokia's Korean manufacturing facility.
"We look forward to the journey ahead," concluded Microsoft.
Follow Chris Martin and @PCAdvisor on Twitter.
