Microsoft launched Windows Phone more than a year ago, and despite getting rave reviews from almost every reviewer out there, hasn’t been able to sell a lot of devices until now.

According to a recent report by Gartner, it accounted for only about 1.5% of the total smartphones sold worldwide in Q3 2011.

However, Microsoft is trying to do everything it can to make Windows Phone a hit. Thanks to Nokia’s support, and the backing from almost all major device manufacturers like Samsung and HTC, I expect it to become one of the top three mobile platforms in th next couple of years.

Today, Microsoft announced yet another incentive for consumers to buy a Windows Phone – it is offering everyone who buys a new Windows Phone a prepaid app card which allows them to buy paid apps worth $25 for free.

The offer is valid only in the U.S. and Puerto Rico for now, but it may be extended to other countries as well.

Here are the complete details: Buy a new Windows Phone, get $25 worth of apps

While it seems like a good offer, I doubt it will be very effective in helping Microsoft lure away Android or iPhone users.