Microsoft’s top apps for Android

Not too long ago, Microsoft officially threw in the towel on Windows Phone. Cutting their losses, the software giant pivoted to tailor to users’ demand for Microsoft tools on their Androids. That said, its newest addition is the improved Microsoft Launcher whose release was timed to the announcement of its own browser: Edge. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes Microsoft apps. Here’s our full list of Microsoft tools you can install onto your Android for free. 

Microsoft Launcher

A total revamp of the original (and old) Microsoft Arrow Launcher, this app takes care of most services you’d typically use on Windows 10, rightfully adapting a desktop PC experience to mobile devices. Not only does its interface look sharp; Microsoft Launcher also sets the tone for installing all of Microsoft’s other official Android apps, as doing so creates their own design vibe from the get go—just like Google does for its own Android ecosystem. Now, exactly why you’d want your Android to look like a Windows Phone is your deal. But, as the old saying goes: different strokes for different folks.  [Download here]

Cortana

We’re looking at another Google spin-off, here. Say Google were to bring a smart search app and their (revolutionary) Google Assistant to the table; Microsoft would show up at the party an hour late but with a virtual assistant that does voice control. And works with Bing. And has its own tool bar with context-based results for any of your installed Microsoft apps. That is Cortana. Not bad, eh? [Download]

Outlook

One of the main Microsoft services to hit Android. If you still have a Microsoft account, you can manage your email and interact with other features like Microsoft Calendar or any of your PC Contacts from here.  [Download]

Microsoft Office Suite

Let’s not beat around the bush. Most mid-range users don’t buy into Microsoft Office’s subscription service. That said, Microsoft was very decent in putting out a mobile-version of their Office tools on Android. Much like Google did with their word processor, spreadsheet, and powerpoint tools.

[Download Microsoft Word] [Download Excel] [Download Powerpoint]

OneDrive

Storing files on Microsoft’s cloud server makes more sense than keeping them physically stored (and scattered) among separate devices. Now you can access your files from anywhere. [Download here]

Skype

Does Skype really fall under the category of Microsoft apps? Kind of. Anyway, not needing much of an introduction, this popular videocalling tool (owned by the software giant) is already massively popular worldwide. Even so, Skype constantly adds new IM-tools and is already seamlessly integrated with your contacts and calendar. If you’re not already convinced by its speed or performance you can always check out its Lite version. [Download]

Microsoft Remote Desktop

Ever want to access your PC desktop from your smartphone? Now you can, thanks to this app. Control and browse your PC desktop from anywhere is exactly what this app allows you to do. Plus you can interact with your desktop with touchscreen gestures. Find out how to configure it in our ‘How to use Microsoft Desktop tutorial‘. [Download]

Other apps

• Microsoft Kaizala: a complete tool for managing group projects. [Download]
• Microsoft Mixer: a kind-of Twitch, where you can live stream your games from your PC or Xbox. Review here. [Download]
• Microsoft Translator: fully functional in over 50 languages, it also comes with live translation and voice detection features. [Download]
• Microsoft Authentificator: the best way to speed up your security process into a two-step endeavour. Useful for all your Microsoft apps and accounts. [Download]
• Xbox: the official Microsoft console gaming app to watch your contacts, check out scoreboards and keep in the know on the latest games. [Download]
• To-Do: your go-to app for list making (plus it’s fully integrated to work within your Microsoft Calendar). [Download]
• Microsoft Solitaire Collection: a classic. They did it the right way back in the 90s. Now they’re doing it again, bringing solitaire back to life on your smartphone.  [Download]