Lenovo to pre-load Microsoft apps on Android devices

Lenovo has agreed to pre-load Microsoft productivity apps on select Android-based devices as part of an expanded collaboration between the companies.

Under the agreement, Lenovo will load apps including Microsoft Office, OneDrive and Skype on Android-based smartphones and tablets.

The expanded collaboration also includes a patent cross-licensing agreement covering both Lenovo and Motorola devices. Lenovo acquired smartphone maker Motorola Mobility from Google in 2014 for around US$2.91 billion ($3.81 billion).

“Our collaboration with Microsoft will create new opportunities for our customers to take advantage of some of Microsoft’s most popular apps,” Lenovo Leader of Corporate Alliances Christian Eigen said.

“Installing Microsoft apps and services on our devices will bring additional value to consumers around the globe.”

The move marks Microsoft’s latest effort to gain a foothold in the Android ecosystem. After the company failed to make much of a splash with its Windows Mobile operating system, its mobile strategy has increasingly focused on developing apps for Android and iOS.

Image courtesy of Kārlis Dambrāns under CC