A new research report from Analysys Mason predicts that Windows Phone will become the fastest-growing smartphone operating system in the next five years. However, it will still only have a single-digit percentage share of the smartphone market in 2017.

Last year, Microsoft’s Windows Phone OS was shipped in 11 million devices. In 2017 this figure is expected to reach 136 million units; approximately the same number of Apple devices shipped in 2012.

Nokia has agreed a new patent licensing deal with Research In Motion, enabling RIM to use Nokia’s patented technology on its BlackBerry handsets.

Full details are confidential although RIM will pay Nokia a one-off amount and ongoing charges.

Mark Bridge writes:

Predicting the future is easy. Making accurate predictions is more of a challenge. In our final podcast of 2012 we've provided a forecast for the mobile telecoms industry in 2013 - and we've also looked back at last year's expectations.

So... what do the three of us at TheFonecast.com expect from mobile phones and wireless technology next year?

Toyota says it’ll be producing the first car in the world with built-in Qi wireless charging.

The 2013 Toyota Avalon Limited will be available in the USA with a ‘Technology Package’ that also includes radar-controlled cruise control, automatic high beams and a pre-collision safety system.

Volvo Car Group and Ericsson have formed a partnership to develop internet-based ‘connected car’ services. Plans include a ‘Connected Vehicle Cloud’ based on Ericsson’s Multiservice Delivery Platform to provide in-car infotainment, apps and communication services.

For example, a driver will be able to download applications, create an on-line service booking and interact with selected commercial partners.