Although it is reported that Microsoft's Windows Phone 8 operating system is rumored to launch in November on new handsets, a new report has claimed that Nokia may be preparing to offer its future Lumia devices as operator exclusives.
Using the similar strategy as that of AT&T in the States, Nokia is said to have started negotiations with European operators over Windows Phone 8, specifically with France Telecom and Deutsche Telekom. No deal has been reached with either party as of yet.
As per a Financial Times report, Nokia's usual sales approach, which currently relies on trying to get as many phones in as many hands as possible across all channels immediately, would be ditched in favor of partnerships that would help create dedicated support for its smartphones, initially through one or two networks in Europe.
Nokia is also expected to benefit from increased promotion and support of its handsets, while operators get a share of the profits from device sales. This is something that's quite attractive to carriers.
And although it's not clear as to how early it is in the negotiation stage, if Nokia is able to strike exclusive partnerships across Europe then it may help the company establish Windows Phone as a practical third mobile operating system (provided the deals result in increased sales to customers).
Nokia CEO Stephen Elop, however, has maintained his confidence and has pinned his hopes on a “bold and aggressive marketing campaign for Windows 8" when it launches in October. He expects that this will help boost Lumia and Windows Phone.
Many believe, the ones familiar with the plan, that the idea is to recreate the excitement that took place prior to the exclusive launch of the Apple iPhone in 2007.
