Microsoft Has Its Version Of The Samsung Galaxy S8

Samsung has been making combined products with  Microsoft apps like Skype, OneDrive, OneNote and more on its phones and tablets for a while now. However, when it comes to the Galaxy S8, the two companies are taking their partnership a step further. Microsoft is selling a Samsung Galaxy S8 Microsoft Edition and it's accepting pre-orders starting today at its retail stores in the US ahead of the April 21st launch.

As you might expect, the customized S8 will come loaded with Microsoft's apps and services like Office, OneDrive, Outlook and Cortana. It's interesting that Microsoft's virtual assistant would be included given that these two new handsets are the big debut of Samsung's Bixby. However, if you're going to go through the trouble of a special version, it makes sense to add that in, too.
A Microsoft spokesperson confirmed to Engadget that the customization would be available on both the Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+. When the Microsoft Edition handsets are first connected to WiFi, all of the custom software is downloaded and installed. While the regular versions of the Galaxy S8 already includes Office apps, the alternate edition tacks on Cortana, Excel, Outlook, OneDrive, One Note, Bing, Groove, Skype, MSN News and more.
"Samsung Galaxy S8 and Samsung Galaxy S8+ Microsoft Edition arranges those productivity applications on the home screen and provides additional accessibility to other Microsoft owned applications such as LinkedIn, Wunderlist and more," a Microsoft spokesperson explained to Engadget.
Update: Microsoft confirmed details about the Galaxy S8 Microsoft Edition to Engadget This post has been updated to reflect that information which includes the statement below.

Today Microsoft and Samsung continue their partnership to help businesses harness the power of mobility by featuring the best business productivity apps and software. Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ Microsoft Edition are available to pre-order now and for purchase beginning April 21 at U.S. Microsoft Store locations.

A Microsoft customization is applied to the Samsung Galaxy S8 and Galaxy S8+ Microsoft Edition when the devices are unboxed and connected to Wi-Fi. This customization ensures customers a best-in-class productivity experience with Microsoft applications such as Office, OneDrive, Cortana, Outlook and more.

Microsoft Store is committed to empowering its customers to achieve more through Office and Microsoft applications. The new device customization is an example of bringing together Microsoft applications on more devices so customers can work, play and connect from their pockets.