Microsoft is hoping to strike deals with a consortium of entertainment groups – including EA and Gameloft – to provide content for the upcoming Windows Marketplace for Mobile service.

The platform holder announced today that it plans to further discuss partnerships with content providers such as Web music service Pandora, as well as social network Facebook, to provide apps that can help Windows Mobile devices compete with Apple’s iPhone.

Further discussions with entertainment providers are expected to occur at the CTIA Wireless conference, which opens April 1 in Las Vegas. Robbie Bach, president of Microsoft's entertainment and devices unit, will be providing a keynote speech at the event.

Yet the company has remained quiet on the future of gaming for Windows Mobile, and has yet to elaborate on the partnerships it’s making with both EA and mobile game group Gameloft.

Microsoft has previously announced that Windows Marketplace for Mobile would launch during the second half of this year.