Microsoft and LG Electronics have signed a preliminary agreement to work together on mobile technology.

By teaming with handset maker LG, Microsoft hopes to gain greater penetration of its Windows Mobile operating system and continue to challenge Symbian.

Symbian is taking heat from multiple fronts such as from the operating systems of Apple and Research in Motion as well as smartphones based on Google’s Android software.

Analysts point out that South Korean handset makers such as LG have some weaknesses on Symbian platforms, so a relationship with Microsoft strengthens their positions.

Under the proposed partnership, the converged mobile device business will be reinforced with LG’s marketing and products in mobile and IT sector and Microsoft’s proficiency in Windows Mobile OS, application and service, said LG, via a statement.