Mobile Linux will outsell Microsoft Windows Mobile in the mobile internet device market by 2013, according to a new study.

The figures from ABI Research suggest Linux will be the highest-selling mobile operating system in five years' time, eWeek.com reports.

It found that the product's ability to provide a "converged platform that can span multiple device segments" will be key factors in its success.

According to the website, Stuart Carlaw, research director at ABI Research, commented: "The flexibility, customisation and very positive cost comparison to Windows Mobile look set to ensure that Linux takes the leading role in this market."

The market for mobile internet devices is set to expand to almost 40 million units by 2012, eWeek.com adds.

Meanwhile, it was recently reported by the Daily Telegraph that Microsoft has failed to meet profit expectations amid the wider economic downturn.

It said Microsoft's chief financial officer Chris Liddell had acknowledged that his company is facing a "tough environment".

A recent Connect survey found that the two major concerns about outsourcing services like IT support were 'loss of control' (56 per cent) and 'budget over-runs' (43 per cent)