Microsoft and Nokia partner around WP7

So, it is official: Microsoft and Nokia partnership has been announced today.

Nokia will build phones based on the Windows Phone 7 OS, cool off the support for Symbian and open the MeeGo platform to Open Source for shipping non better specified “devices”. As part of the deal, Bing will now be Nokia’s default search engine, Windows Phone App Marketplace will “merge” with the Nokia Ovi Store and Nokia Maps will be integrated in Microsoft map services.

The reactions are mixed:

Some Nokia fanboys feel betrayed, but reminded of the big opportunity to be using one of the best OS out there in the market today.

Commentators are also on the mixed side, but most recognize that this deal will boost the chances of Windows Phone 7 to become the third player in the mobile phone race.

Personally, we are thrilled to have the maker of such quality hardware join the Windows Phone 7 OS band: we still remind of our first Nokia phones in the late 90’s and early 00’s: they were sturdy but elegant, durable yet lightweight; with amazing voice quality, battery life and reception.

Pictures of the first models have also been released: be true or fake, they look as elegant as a Nokia phone can be (as well as colorful!).

We can’t wait to try one!