Nokia will return to the U.S. smartphone market starting Jan. 11 with a Nokia Lumia 710 Windows Phone — a key milestone in the partnership between Microsoft and Nokia as they attempt to reverse their declining fortunes in the mobile market.

The phone will run on T-Mobile’s 4G network. It will be aimed at first-time smartphone buyers, selling for $49.99 after a $50 rebate.

“Windows Phone offers a compelling mobile OS choice for people who want a smartphone built around them, their family and friends,” said Cole Brodman, chief marketing officer for T-Mobile USA in a news release announcing the new phone. “We expect it to play a more prominent role in our lineup and marketing efforts in 2012.”

Nokia launched its first Windows Phones in Europe for the holidays.

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