Microsoft signs patent cross-licensing agreement with Lenovo that covers Android devices

Microsoft and Lenovo today announced a patent cross-licensing agreement that covers Lenovo and Motorola devices running Android OS. It was also announced that Lenovo will load Microsoft’s productivity apps — including Microsoft Office, OneDrive and Skype — on select Lenovo devices that use the Android operating system as part of their new partnership. Lenovo expects to ship millions of these Android-based devices worldwide over the next several years.

“Our collaboration with Microsoft will create new opportunities for our customers to take advantage of some of Microsoft’s most popular apps,” said Christian Eigen, Leader of Corporate Alliances, Lenovo. “Installing Microsoft apps and services on our devices will bring additional value to consumers around the globe.”

“Microsoft’s thrilled that our productivity apps will be pre-installed on Lenovo’s premium devices,” said Nick Parker, corporate vice president OEM Division, 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.”