Microsoft's (MSFT) research and development group in China has announced it is setting up a mobile technology center in Beijing.

The center will focus on enhancing the company's end-to-end mobile solutions by leveraging China's expertise in the area of mobile technology.

Microsoft said that the centre will also facilitate closer collaboration and partnerships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), mobile operators and independent software vendors to develop advanced devices, applications and services.

Looking to better understand customer needs in the Asia Pacific region, Microsoft's new centre will work towards development of mobile multimedia, 3G wireless, seamless device connection and communication technologies and innovations.

The establishment of the new centre comes at a time when both Microsoft and China are moving forward with their mobile technologies. China's 3G mobile services are scheduled to launch this year, and Microsoft is expanding into the mobile market with the introduction of its 'ultra-mobile PCs', also scheduled for availability later in 2006.