Microsoft has introduced the OneApp virtual store, which will bring lightweight versions of social-networking sites and other programs to handsets without using much bandwidth.
The virtual app store will only take up 140 KB of space with Microsoft picking up some of the weight on its servers.
Microsoft will partner with South Africa-based Blue Label Telecoms Group for the initial launch of the store.
"Microsoft OneApp will be able to help people do things they could not do before with their feature mobile phone — anything from paying their bills to helping diagnose their health issues or just staying connected with friends and family," said Amit Mital, corporate VP at Microsoft, in a statement.
In the fourth quarter, Microsoft will launch an app store for Windows Mobile smartphones.