Microsoft has officially launched the Office for Android phone suite, following a five-week preview period.
From today, Android smartphone owners can download the suite, which includes full access to Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
The release for Google-powered phones follows previous launches for Android tablets, iPhone and iPad, as well as the desktop platforms.
Just like those previous mobile releases, Redmond is offering subscription-free access to the core suite to anyone with a Microsoft account.
Some features are still behind the Office 365 paywall, but everyday users will be able to use the apps to create, open, edit, save and share their documents, presentations and spreadsheets directly from the smartphone app.
Of course, the files exist in the cloud and all changes are synced back to the main document using Microsoft’s OneNote storage platform, as well as partner solutions like Google Drive, Dropbox and Box.
The new apps have been designed for touchscreen and the Android smartphone experience, with Microsoft calling them “the real Office apps.”
Microsoft says it tested the tools on 1,900 different Android devices so there should be few compatibility problems for those jumping on board with Office for Android phone.
As well as becoming available to download, the Office suite will also ship built-in to mobile devices from 30 different manufacturers, including Sony phones and Samsung tablets, among others.
Related: What is the best cloud storage platform to use?
You can check out the new suite in the video below
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Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
