Microsoft Corp. and Telefónica SA, one of the leading integrated operators in the world, today announced that Telefónica has agreed to adopt Windows Live services for mobile phones for all of Telefónica’s Wireless Application Protocol (WAP)-based handsets in 12 countries in Latin America, specifically those in which Telefónica operates its cellular services under the brand Telefónica movistar. Customers of Telefónica movistar throughout Latin America will have access to Windows Live Hotmail, Windows Live Messenger and Windows Live Spaces from their phone, enjoying one of the leading instant message, Web mail and communications services worldwide.

Initial Windows Live Services are already available for Telefónica cellular customers in Argentina and Chile, and for Vivo customers in Brazil, and will soon be launched in a phased approach across the rest of the countries. The 12 countries that benefit from this relationship are Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Uruguay and Venezuela.

“Microsoft’s alliance with Telefónica will enable a much broader group of consumers to experience the benefits that Windows Live has to offer, providing easy access from virtually anywhere,” said Matt Champagne, director of product management of the Mobile Communications Business for Microsoft. “Our partnership allows us to extend the value of our key services to customers in Latin America, opening new avenues for increased productivity and seamless connectivity.”

Full PressPass

Microsoft, Telefónica, Windows Live, Press