Mobile operator Orange today announced a partnership with Intel focused on the new MeeGo platform, the first development since Nokia and Intel last month announced plans to merge their own Linux initiatives (Maemo and Moblin, respectively) into the new platform. The Orange/Intel tieup will see the operator deliver multimedia services across a number of Intel’s Atom-based devices, using the MeeGo software platform. Smartphones, tablets and netbooks will support Orange Signature Services such as Orange TV and Orange Maps.

Nokia was conspicuous by its absence in the announcement; it’s worth noting that the benefit for Orange will be increased availability of applications such as Orange Maps, which compete directly with content available through Nokia’s Ovi Store. Also of note is the fact that Nokia’s recent entry into the netbook space uses Intel’s Atom processor.