In what might be seen as a snub to its own content managers, Orange has agreed to promote Ovi Store content alongside its own Application Shop on Nokia devices from 2011 in the UK and France.
The deal will see Orange work with Nokia to create a single login to simplify the registration and purchasing process across both app stores. All purchases made by the subscriber would then appear on their monthly invoice from Orange.
Commenting on the agreement, Paul Francois Fournier, EVP of internet services at Orange, said that access to content would only become successful if it was made simple, seamless and secure. "That is why we are extending our partnership with Nokia, combining innovation to create an intelligent platform that brings an enhanced experience to our customers."
Marco Argenti, VP of media at Nokia, said: "Our data shows that two out of every three Ovi Store users choose the simplicity of operator billing when purchasing content. By offering more locally relevant content and the most convenient way to pay for it, we believe Nokia's Ovi Store with Orange will be a hit with consumers and provide developers with additional revenue opportunities."
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