Microsoft to provide free applications to LG's Window Phone 7 users

LG Electronics and Microsoft Corp. today announced a tie-up to provide LG customers free selection of quality applications on Windows Phone 7 handsets.

As per the collaboration, LG and Microsoft will subsidise a revolving portfolio of hand-picked applications, providing free access to quality applications that take advantage of the unique features and design of Windows Phone 7. The applications will be based on popular categories including social connectivity, gaming and helpful utilities.

LG customers can download these applications through the LG application store, which will be accessible directly from LG Windows Phone 7 models.

Besides, Windows Phone application developers will be provided with exclusive marketing opportunities and resources to promote their applications with LG. The developer program will kick off in November, the company said.

The new applications will be promoted through in-store sales events and on the LG mobile global Facebook page.

''This collaboration with LG creates a win-win situation for consumers and developers and will further showcase the variety of quality games and applications available on Windows Phone 7,'' said Brandon Watson, director for Windows Phone at Microsoft.

LG will also be offering its Windows Phone 7 customers free access to applications developed directly by the company. These applications will also be available from the LG application store and will span social networking services, such as Type n Walk and Voice SNS, as well as practical tools like Subway AR, the company added.