14 DAY TRIAL // Back in March, Microsoft finally rolled out its popular Office suite of apps for the Apple iPad. This move begged the question – why didn't Microsoft choose to the same with Android tablets, given the fact that Android holds the largest piece of market share (collectively)?
But everything comes in due time. Redmond is already targeting the extensive Android ecosystem with the smartphone-friendly version of Office, which rolled out in July last year.
The Office app for Android tablets is coming, but when?
And a year later Microsoft kickstarted a beta testing program for future versions of Office apps, so back then we hypothesized that the Android tablet friendly one might be among them.
A few months back, users were invited to join the private-beta tests (the offer applied to both business and home users alike) in order to be allowed to test the upcoming versions of Word, Excel and PowerPoint completely free of charge.
Now sources familiar with the matter talking to Zdnet are saying that Microsoft is expected to launch its Android tablet-friendly version of Office soon, possibility in early November.
On top of that, the company is also expected to reveal the timeline for the next Office for Mac release. We’re also hoping for a public preview, as well.
Going back to the Android ecosystem, the new tablet version of Office suite should come optimized for touch and bigger screens including 10-inch or 12-inch.
Sure the Google Play Store offers tons and tons of options for those looking to fill the void left by Office, but let’s be honest, most users will readily snatch up Microsoft’s editing suite if given the option.
The basic version of the Android tablet app should be free
Like the iPad version, the Android tablet app should be made available for download free of charge, but users looking to unlock more advanced features will have to pay some cash in order to do so.
But are Android users willing to pay the money? This is probably one of the reasons Microsoft choose to launch the iPad version first – iOS users are more likely to pay for their applications and upgrades.
On top of that, Android tablets aren't really considered productivity tools, as opposed to the iPad. However, products like the Samsung Galaxy NotePRO 12 or the upcoming Sony Xperia 12-inch tablet are looking to challenge that dogma.
These tablets come with spacious screens, powerful chips on the inside, an accessory pen, and can be used in concert with a keyboard. Even so, time will tell if people are willing to drop iOS and Microsoft in favor of Android at the office.