Lenovo, Microsoft agree on cross-licensing pact; deal includes use of Microsoft apps

Lenovo and Microsoft have shaken hands on a deal that will result in Microsoft productivity apps like Skype, Office and OneDrive coming pre-loaded on some Android devices produced by Lenovo. The deal also includes cross-licensing of patents between Microsoft and Lenovo. The agreement includes patents belonging to Lenovo's Motorola. Earlier this year, Xiaomi and Microsoft agreed on a similar cross-licensing pact that allows Xiaomi to pre-install Office and Skype on certain Xiaomi handsets.

Lenovo didn't mention which models will come with the Microsoft apps, but did say in a statement that it plans on selling millions of these particular devices world-wide over the next several years. The financial aspects of the agreement were not included.


Microsoft happens to have a large portfolio of patents related to Android. In fact, the software giant makes more money licensing these patents than it makes selling Windows Phone handsets.

source: WindowsCentral