Report: Nokia to Launch Android-Based Smartphone in February

Before Nokia closes on its mobile business sale to Microsoft, the Finnish device manufacturer is reportedly launching an Android-based smartphone later this month. The phone is expected to launch at the Mobile World Congress trade show in Barcelona, which kicks off in two weeks.

The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Nokia has been developing an Android device while Microsoft worked out details of the transaction. In September, the companies announced Microsoft would be acquiring Nokia's mobile division and patents for $7.4 billion

The Android device will target emerging markets and won't promote some of the key features typically seen on Google's Android platform, including the Google Play app store, the report said. Instead, think of this as an Android version of Nokia's low-cost Asha brand. Read more...