Nokia and Microsoft relationship is tied to the success of Windows Phone 8. However, for Nokia, the success of the platform means a lot more if the company is to survive through 2013 without going bankrupt, or being forced to sell itself to the highest bidder. Rumors are popping up about Nokia being the first OEM to launch Windows Phone 8 devices, but not only that, this is expected to go on for a whole month.

We're not sure how much truth is hidden away in this rumor, but if for some reason Nokia gets exclusive access to Windows Phone 8, a move like this by Microsoft would undermine current and potential partners. Why should these OEMs support the platform fully if the main competitor is being favored so greatly? Microsoft needs to tread carefully here if the company wants to see Windows Phone 8 succeed.

This rumor derives from an interview Nokia's CEO, Stephen Elop, had with the New York Times.

Here is the quote that is causing all the buzz around town:

Mark Sue - RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Research Division

Sure, Steve. Will Nokia be the first and flagship platform for Windows 8?

Stephen A. Elop

So we're not making any specific announcements about announced timing or how that happens. But one of the things - just to give a signal in this direction, on a number of occasions, Windows Phone 8 has been demonstrated. It's been demonstrated on Nokia hardware. We're working with them every single day on the initial hardware platforms and everything. So clearly, we have a very close relationship that is not the same as what anyone else has at this point. So the relationships are good there.

Stephen Elop didn't outright stated the company would get a one month exclusive device release over other OEMs, but it definitely suggested something.

The Nokia CEO went on to say Windows Phone 8 will be launched in September, which could very well mean the company gets a one month head start and everyone else gets the chance to ride the gravy train in November. We'll see how all of this plays out in the coming months, as September is not too far away.