Nokia says Microsoft talks on schedule

HELSINKI (Reuters) - Talks between Nokia, the world's largest cellphone maker by volume, and Microsoft on a software deal are on schedule and a large number of Nokia Windows phones should be sold in 2012.

The companies signed a non-binding agreement on February 11 for Nokia to start using Microsoft software as its main platform in smartphones.

Nokia chief executive Stephen Elop said in February it would take at least a couple of months to sign a deal.

The long negotiation process has led analysts to question whether the partnership can produce quick results. Some analysts have said talks should be concluded by end-April when Nokia plans to start talks over job cuts stemming from the agreement.

(Reporting by Tarmo Virki; Editing by Dan Lalor)