Nokia, in order to maintain market shares for feature phones and entry- to mid-range smartphones in emerging markets, is expected to continue to release orders for Windows Phone 7.5 handsets to Taiwan-based ODM makers in 2013, according to Taiwan-based supply chain makers.

Although Nokia has launched Windows Phone 8 smartphones, it is difficult for such smartphones to be available in entry- to mid-range market segments because of high hardware standards and licensing charges required for the platform, the supply chain makers pointed out.

Windows Phone 7.5, as a platform in transition to Windows Phone 8, may not have potential for continued development, the supply chain makers indicated. Therefore, Nokia is likely to select a platform alternative to Windows Phone 7.5 for inexpensive handsets targeted to emerging markets, and Android seems to be a feasible choice, the supply chain makers pointed out.

However, Compal Communications, a Taiwan-based ODM in close cooperation with Nokia, has not talked about development of Android handsets with Nokia.