Nokia may use Windows Phone 7

Handset maker rumoured to be considering Microsoft OS alongside Symbian and Meego

Nokia is said to be considering the use of Windows Phone 7 on some future handsets, according to various reports.

The rumours are attributed to an unnamed source, who claimed that Nokia's new chief executive Stephen Elop has been given a free hand to make any necessary changes in company strategy.

Nokia is still the largest phone handset maker globally, but its fortunes have waned at the high end of the market owing to competition from rivals such as Apple's iPhone.

If true, the rumoured move would be a major change of direction for Nokia, although the rumours did not suggest that the firm would drop either Symbian or Meego in favour of Windows Phone 7, merely that the company may consider using the platform as a third option for one or more future devices.

Elop is a former Microsoft executive, and might look favourably on the upcoming phone platform from his old company.

In addition, Nokia and Microsoft already have a partnership that has seen Microsoft Communicator Mobile ported to select Nokia handsets, and a version of the Office Mobile applications is said to be in the pipeline.