Possibility of a Microsoft Edition Samsung Galaxy S8 Reaches Beyond U.S. Borders

Just a few short days ago, the much-anticipated Samsung Galaxy S8 was unveiled, quickly claiming the spotlight and even catching the eyes of some potential competitors. On March 30, Microsoft declared its plans to release a Microsoft Edition of both the Galaxy S8 and the larger S8 Plus on April 21, in perfect synchrony with Samsung’s planned release date for these new mobile devices.

Initial reports suggest that these specially customized devices will only be available for purchase within Microsoft stores located in the United States. This leads us to the question, what exactly does a Microsoft Edition of Samsung’s Android phone entail?

In essence, this allows consumers to purchase and unbox a Samsung Android device within a Microsoft store. Once connected to Microsoft Wi-Fi, the smartphone becomes a vessel hosting a variety of popular Microsoft applications. These include Office, Outlook, Cortana, and more. While it may seem strange to buy an Android device in a Microsoft store, the tech behemoth offered some insight into this move, saying,

“Our Microsoft store is devoted to empowering customers to achieve more with Office and Microsoft applications. Creating a new device customization that introduces Microsoft applications into more devices is an example of unifying our customers’ work, play and connect capabilities right from their pockets.”

The move could prove highly beneficial for both parties. Microsoft earns user engagement for its services on the dominant Android platform, and Samsung potentially sees a boost in the sale of its new phones.

Pricewise, the Microsoft Edition of the Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus will be offered at $749.99 and $849.99 respectively.

In closing, Microsoft left the door open to potential expansion of this edition beyond US stores. This implies the possibility of the device being made available in various other countries, with the decision pivoting on market conditions.

The tech world waits with bated breath to see how this potential symbiosis of technology giants plays out. One thing is clear, it’s going to be an exhilarating ride on the cutting edge of innovation.