Snapdeal, India’s largest online marketplace, has partnered with Finish smartphone company Jolla to launch a smartphone running Sailfish OS, an open source operating system formerly developed by Nokia as Meego.

Jolla handsets have been available in Europe since the end of 2013. This will be the first time the phones have been on sale in an emerging market.

Jolla claims the phone offers a distinct gesture based user experience. In a move designed to broaden the phone’s appeal, Android application compatibility will be available in India exclusively through Snapdeal.

The development comes as Microsoft Devices announce the scrapping of Nokia X Android handsets. These devices were announced only four months ago, immediately prior to the acquisition of Nokia’s mobile phone division by Microsoft.

Sami Pienimäki, Co-founder and CMO of Jolla commented: “India is the rising smartphone market of the world and we look forward to welcoming many new Jolla fans across the country. Since late 2011 when we established the company Jolla, we have received a tremendous amount of interest from India to enter this great market. In particular we have found it very encouraging how much there is interest and trust for mobile heritage coming from Finland, and what kind of development opportunities there are to start to develop e.g. local applications for India.”

Kunal Bahl, Co-founder & CEO, Snapdeal.com commented “Jolla with its innovative Sailfish OS introduces an entirely new user experience to consumers. Jolla offers a unique smartphone experience both in terms of hardware and software. We look forward to a long term and mutually beneficial relationship”.