A Mobile WiMax phone and a video service built in partnership by Yota and Microsoft have been recognized with a Global Telecoms Business Innovation 2009 Award during a ceremony in London, on June 16th, 2009. The two companies have been applauded as the first choice in the broadband services innovation category for the 4G service they managed to put together, as well as for the MAX 4G phone. Microsoft was little shy of emphasizing that the award reflected its continuous commitment to driving and investing in innovation.

“We would like to thank Global Telecoms Business for acknowledging the innovative combined Yota-Microsoft solution. Such recognition is a testament to our innovation development and evidence of leadership in the Russian and CIS markets,” revealed Andrew Lund, director, CEE/CIS Communications Sector, Microsoft.

Yota and Microsoft have partnered over the development of the first 4G mobile phone for the Russian market. Neither of the companies specified an availability deadline for the MAX 4G; however, they did reveal that the device would feature the Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system. The ‘International Consumer Services Innovation’ category award recognizes the efforts that went into producing the GSM+Mobile WiMAX mobile phone. The MAX 4G will be offered to all Yota customers, Microsoft explained.

The partnership between Microsoft and Yota has in no way been limited to the MAX 4G. The two companies have worked together in order to provide mobile phone users in Moscow and St. Petersburg, over 20 million of them, with access to the Yota Mobile WiMAX service. Through the mobile broadband Internet service, they are able to enjoy video on demand, music and TV via their mobile phones.

“This project stood out, even though the competition was strong, and it just had to be one of the winners. Well done to all involved,” said Alan Burkitt-Gray, editor of Global Telecoms Business, while Dennis Sverdlov, chief executive officer, Yota, added, “We are delighted to have received this prize with our partner Microsoft. It is a real recognition of Yota’s commitment to continuous innovation.”