Nokia expects the role of the Linux operating system in its product portfolio to increase as the role of its Internet-focused devices grows, company officials said.

Linux has so far had little success on cellphones, but its role is increasing as more new Linux-based models reach the market, while Google gave it a vote of confidence by using it to build its Android platform on.

Nokia itself has used Linux for years in its Internet tablets. "We will expand that range, and we believe that the role of Linux will grow," said Nokia spokesman Kari Tuutti.

Linux has a large developer community which could result in more attractive programs and lower costs for the likes of Nokia.

Nokia has used the tablets to target technology-savvy consumers or support emerging technologies like WiMAX.

The market for software platforms on cellphones is led by Nokia's S60, built on the Symbian operating system, well ahead of Microsoft's Windows Mobile.

However, many mobile industry heavyweights, including Vodafone , Motorola , NTT DoCoMo , Samsung Electronics , Huawei and LG Electronics , have joined Linux alliances.