Microsoft calls time on Android-powered Nokia X devices

The news comes as Microsoft revealed that 18,000 people are to lose their jobs "over the next year", with 12,500 "professional and factory positions" to be lost as it integrates Nokia's mobile arm into the business.

In an email to Microsoft employees, the company's executive in charge of mobile devices, Stephen Elop, said future Nokia X designs and products would be absorbed into the Lumia brand and run on Windows OS.

MORE: Microsoft announces first Android-powered smartphone

It's just a month since the latest Nokia X-branded smartphone emerged, with the X2 running on Android and costing just €99 (£80) – a pricing strategy designed to attract the affordable end of the mobile market.

Elop confirmed in his email that Microsoft would continue to "sell and support existing Nokia X products", but said there would be a focus "on driving Lumia volume in the areas where we are already successful".

Microsoft will be consolidating its former Smart Devices and Mobile Phone divisions into a single business covering all aspects of its mobile activities, with a team led by Jo Harlow planning on securing success for its Lumia products.

MORE: 14 reasons why we're going to miss Nokia

Pete was content editor on What Hi-Fi?, overseeing production and publication of digital content. In creating and curating feature articles for web and print consumption, he provided digital and editorial expertise and support to help reposition What Hi-Fi? as a ‘digital-first’ title; reflecting the contemporary media trends. He is now a senior content strategist.