Nokia is handing over software development for its Symbian platform to Accenture. The handset maker has announced plans for a strategic collaboration with Accenture that will result in the transfer of its Symbian software activites, including about 3,000 employees to Accenture. The move signals Nokia’s intention to focus its handset and OS efforts on Windows Phone 7 going forward.

Nokia has also confirmed that it plans to reduce its global workforce by around 4,000 employees by the end of 2012, with the majority of reductions in Denmark, Finland and the UK. The moves form part of Nokias plans to reduce its Devices & Services operating expenses by €1bn for the full year 2013, in comparison to the full year 2010.

Announcing the plans, Nokia CEO Stephen Elop described the job cuts as a “difficult reality”, and said: “At Nokia, we have new clarity around our path forward, which is focused on our leadership across smart devices, mobile phones and future disruptions…We are offering those who are losing their jobs a range of options, from individual re-employment support and re-training to making investments to promote innovation and working with a variety of partners to create new opportunities.”