Nokia to Rebrand as Microsoft Mobile

Microsoft is planning to change the name of Nokia to Microsoft Mobile following the completion of the sale of its Devices and Services unit on 25 April, according to recently leaked documents.

Nokia news and review site Nokia Power User (NPU) discovered the leaked memo outlining the terms of sale to Microsoft, apparently sent by Nokia to the Devices and Services business suppliers base.

"Please note that upon the close of the transaction between Microsoft and Nokia, the name of Nokia Corporation/ Nokia Oyj will change to Microsoft Mobile Oy," the memo reportedly stated.

"Microsoft Mobile Oy is the legal entity name that should be used for VAT IDs and for the issuance of invoices."

The terms Oyj and Oy are business designations in Finnish, like Ltd. or Corp., meaning the new company would be known commonly as Microsoft Mobile.

The memo also revealed that the Devices and Services unit would continue to do business with Nokia even after it is handed over to Microsoft.

The memo stated: "In addition to becoming a supplier for Microsoft Mobile Oy, we appreciate that you might also remain a supplier to the continuing businesses of Nokia after the close of the transaction between Microsoft and Nokia Devices and Services."

According to NPU, this hints at the production of a Nokia smartwatch that the publication believes could be coming later this year through a division of the company that is not being sold to Microsoft.

Nokia announced that it expected the transaction with Microsoft to close on 25 April "subject to certain customary closing conditions".