Microsoft has introduced a new app, which allows users to see which Android apps are available on Windows platform
According to VentureBeat, Microsoft has released an app called “AppComparison” to bolster cross-platform development for Android and Windows operating systems (OS). The app lets users check whether the apps they use on Android smartphones are available for Windows mobiles as well. The new app is available for users who run Android 4.1, and all subsequent versions.
According to the publication, the company released a similar app two years ago, labeled “Switch to Windows Phone.” However, the earlier app was not as efficient, and failed to show all apps that were compatible on both platforms.
The app’s size is 2.82 MB, and it has a basic layout, with and easy-to-use features. After the program is launched, it requires the user to select a list of categories such as education, games, entertainment, news, and weather. The “Start Matching” button will subsequently provide a list of app available on all the alternative Windows-based phones.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) took this decision, as it gets ready to launch its latest phones – Lumia 950 and 950XL. The company hopes that Android users will be more tempted to switch to Windows, since they will able to apps that are available on Windows 10.
Bidness Etc believes that the app does a fine job. However, we are amazed to see Google let one of its major competitor upload such an app, which has potential to lure away its users. However, Apple’s “Switch to iOS” app on Google Play also provides a similar feature.
Microsoft’s move to offer this new app is commendable, as it could prove to be very helpful for users who consider shifting from Android to Windows. There is no doubt that Microsoft struggles in the smartphone market, as it recently wrote off $7.6 billion for the Nokia acquisition, last quarter. The Windows-maker needs to introduce more improvements to its offerings; only then it can make the Windows phone as competitive as other devices in the market.
Lumia 950 and 950 XL can be connected to a monitor, which transforms them into small desktop computers. However, the Windows Store is still a reason why many iOS and Android users will still not use these devices, since it does not support many apps.
Microsoft has decided to sort this issue with new platforms, such as Project Islandwood and Project Astoria, which will allow developers to shift their iOS and Android apps to Windows. While development on Project Astoria for Android faces some roadblocks, Project IslandWood for iOS is close to completion. Microsoft plans to transfer all these apps via Windows Bridge, which will increase app offerings on Windows Store.
Regardless, Microsoft’s offering of a companion app on Android will help the company know the apps users want most. Therefore, it will help streamline future development.
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