Launched on Tuesday, one day before the opening of CommunicAsia 2009, the custom-designed tool allows users to read breaking news from StraitsTimes.com without having to download an application from the Internet.

Nokia's Head of APAC Developer Relations and Marketing Kenny Mathers said the company chose The Straits Times as its prefered news source because of its comprehensive and relevant coverage for local mobile users.

"Building a vibrant ecosystem with content providers and third-party developers is a key focus area for Nokia to bring exciting applications and content to consumers,' he said.

'Nokia is excited to partner with The Straits Times, Singapore's most widely-read English daily, to deliver the latest news content into the hands of Nokia users via the Ovi Store.'

Mr Han Fook Kwang, Editor of The Straits Times said: 'We believe we've got great content to offer, and our tie-up with Nokia is part of our overall effort to reach out to as many people as possible over as many platforms.'

Breaking news on straitstimes.com was first launched for free at Apple's iPhone Application store in January 2009. Singapore Press Holding's web TV site, RazorTV, is also available for free at the iTunes Application stores.

'The success of the ST iPhone app has revealed that we have a winning product. ST online is obviously the choice of news consumption,' said Mr Felix Soh, Digital Media Editor, English and Malay Newspapers Division.

'It is only natural that we move to other mobile platforms. Nokia is a natural partner as it has one of the most popular ranges of handphones in Singapore.'

Read the full story in Tuesday's edition of The Straits Times.