Microsoft apps are coming to new Lenovo smartphones

Microsoft apps like Skype, Outlook, OneDrive, and Office will be pre-loaded on Lenovo Android smartphones, as part of a deal announced yesterday.

The agreement has an objective of deepening the strategic relationship between the two companies. “Microsoft’s thrilled that our productivity apps will be pre-installed on Lenovo’s premium devices,” said Nick Parker, corporate vice president OEM Division at Microsoft. “The marriage of Microsoft’s apps and Lenovo’s Android-based devices will enable customers around the world to be more productive, more connected and achieve even more.”

Moreover, the collaboration between Microsoft and Lenovo includes a patent cross-licensing agreement covering not only Lenovo handsets, but also its Motorola subsidiary. This will allow Microsoft technology to be utilized by the Chinese tech giant.

On the other hand, Christian Eigen, Leader of Corporate Alliances at Lenovo offered a few words regarding the collaboration. He said:

“Our collaboration with Microsoft will create new opportunities for our customers to take advantage of some of Microsoft’s most popular apps. The marriage of Microsoft’s apps and Lenovo’s Android-based devices will enable customers around the world to be more productive, more connected and achieve even more.”

Lenovo is expected to ship millions of Android devices worldwide over the next several years.

Back in February 2015, Samsung was rumored to be shipping the Galaxy S6 with Microsoft apps. As it turned out, this report was accurate, with the flagship handset loaded with Microsoft's apps. This was then followed up with a new deal, with apps being bundled on Samsung tablets.