14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft failed to become the world’s number one phone company, but it looks like it’s now aiming to become the world’s largest phone retailer, as the firm just signed a deal with Apple to sell iPhones in its own stores.
The announcement comes only a day after Microsoft signed a similar partnership with Samsung for a so-called Galaxy S8 Microsoft Edition, so customers paying a visit to Microsoft stores aren’t going to find any Windows phones, but they can get both Android and iOS devices.
The new iPhones will be baptized Microsoft Edition as well and will wear the Microsoft logo on the back, as you can see in the photo included in the article.
Sales start on April 1, Microsoft said, and those purchasing an iPhone 7 or iPhone 7 Plus Microsoft Edition get an out-of-the-box customization kit that replaces Siri with Cortana, the default Mail app with Outlook, and iCloud integration with OneDrive.
Pricing for the new iPhones starts at $899 and Microsoft says that limited quantities are available, so you'd better hurry up if you want to purchase this super-special iPhone.
Two colors available
Talking to Softpedia, a Microsoft spokesperson explained that this new deal is seen as an effective way to boost store traffic, which in the end could lead to bigger sales for the company.
“Our deal with Apple helps us provide customers with easy access to our services even if they choose a different mobile platform. We respect everyone’s decision to use Android or iOS, and this is why we’re trying to help them make no compromise. Bringing Microsoft apps on as many devices as possible is a priority,” the spokesperson explained.
The iPhone 7 Microsoft Edition will be available only in silver, Rose Gold, matte black and Jet Black. The last two colors have been introduced with the iPhone 7, with the latter available only on the more expensive models.
Contacted for a statement on its partnership with Microsoft, an Apple spokesperson told us that the company doesn’t have anything to add right now.
UPDATE: This was an April Fool's Day story everybody, but don't be too surprised if Microsoft actually starts selling more non-Windows phones in its stores.