Various reports suggest that Nokia is busy in developing its own Linux-based mobile operating system for low-end smartphones.

Citing unnamed sources, the Wall Street Journal recently reported that the new operating system has been codenamed Meltemi, and is being developed under Nokia mobile phone’s executive vice president Mary McDowell.

The information appears to be authentic as it appears in the Finnish handset maker’s internal communication that took place in April. The communication was referring to opportunities for surplus Meego employees “in the Meltemi organisation”.

But, Nokia declined to comment on the reports, saying it was not its policy to comment on future products.

Responding to request for a comment on the reports about the Meltemi operating system, the company said, “Of course, we don’t comment on future products or technologies.”

However, the company confirmed that their Mobile Phones team was working on numerous exciting projects that would help connect the one billion more consumers to the Web.

It is but natural for Nokia to think of developing its own operating system for low-end smartphones as it has already emphasized the significance of low-cost smartphones. It pocketed 47 per cent of its device-and-services revenue from low-end phones in the second quarter of 2011.