Jolla, the start-up set to launch smartphones powered by a revised version of the MeeGo OS, will use the app store of Russian search giant Yandex to distribute Android apps for its device.

Yandex.Store will be pre-installed on Jolla’s forthcoming smartphone, which will run the Sailfish OS, developed from the MeeGo platform that was previously backed by Nokia.

Yandex.Store offers more than 85,000 apps — including ubiquitous titles such as Facebook, Twitter, Foursquare, Skype, Viber and WeChat — across 17 categories. The app store supports in-app purchasing and is available in 37 languages.

“Jolla’s strategy is always to work with the most applicable service partners in specific markets and create long-term strategic partnerships,” said Sami Pienimaki, co-founder of Jolla.

Pienimaki added that Yandex was interested in developing the app store for the needs of Jolla and Sailfish customers.

Jolla said in September that its Sailfish OS was compatible with the Android ecosystem, “in terms of application and hardware compatibility”. This means end users can use Android apps available through various app stores around the world.

In August, the company said its initial run of devices had been “fully booked by consumers and selected sales channels“. Jolla said it would offer another set of its devices for pre-order for customers in its home market.