Microsoft has announced that it will cooperate in China with CHL, a creator of mobile publishing software that allows users to download and read online books, as well as allows writers to publish their books on CHL's website and subsequently be downloaded to a user's cell phone.

Microsoft will, at a later unspecified date, commercially promote and recommend CHL's Mobile Publishing system to cell phone OEM manufacturers and value-adding service providers around the world.

Microsoft has also invited CHL to become a full member in the wireless sector for its partnership support program. Through this exposure, free Microsoft information services will be made available to augment profit capabilities. Technical and non-technical support will be provided by Microsoft free-of-charge.

According to the report, "3G Network deployments in China" by In-Stat/MDR, in China alone there are about 270 million cell phones in operation with growth expected to reach near 500 million by 2008. "Smart phones Rising: 10 Things You Should Know About This Segment" report by In-Stat/MDR indicates smart phone shipments will experience a 44% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the next five years.