Motorola has signed an agreement to acquire Java startup 4thpass. The deal should be completed this month. 4thpass develops Mobile Application System applications, server-side software that enables cellular-network carriers to manage and deliver applications such as games and ring tones to mobile devices. Motorola says it will sell the software to telecommunication carriers worldwide; users will be able to download the applications.

Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed, but some reports pin the value at more than $20 million. 4thpass will operate as part of Motorola's Personal Communications Sector with major offices in Seattle, where the company is based.

Previously, Motorola had been a major investor in the 15-month-old company, joining Nextel Communications, Investcorp, and OVP Venture Partners in a single $8 million round of financing.