Microsoft is providing select Xiaomi users with a ROM to put Windows 10 on their Android smartphones

[Shawn Knight]

During Microsoft’s big announcement earlier today that Windows 10 will arrive this summer, the company also revealed that it is working with Xiaomi to test its new operating system among power users.

In a Microsoft statement obtained by TechCrunch, the company said they are partnering with Xiaomi to offer a select group of Xiaomi Mi4 smartphone users access to Windows 10 free of charge through the Windows Insider Program.

Those selected will be able to flash their phone using a custom ROM that'll put Windows 10 on their Android handset. From there, users are invited to provide feedback to both companies regarding their experience.

Reading between the lines a bit, the bigger story here is that Microsoft is actively developing a way for Android users to make the (free) switch to Microsoft’s mobile platform without having to buy a Lumia handset. Some Lumia devices are nice but let’s face it, there are plenty of other more attractive Android phones to choose from.

If this plan pans out, users may no longer have to buy Lumia hardware to enter Microsoft’s ecosystem. And who knows, perhaps this sort of thing could catch on to the point where handsets are sold as barebones devices that allow users to select the OS of their choice during the setup process (it doesn't hurt to dream, eh?).

Microsoft said it plans to announce availability in the coming months.

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https://www.techspot.com/news/60089-microsoft-providing-select-xiaomi-users-rom-put-windows.html

 

[yRaz]

And who knows, perhaps this sort of thing could catch on to the point where handsets are sold as barebones devices that allow users to select the OS of their choice during the setup process

If you would have said that a year ago I would have laughed it off but not it seems like that might really be the way of the future.

There hasn't been any real innovation in the smartphone segment for the last few years, interchangeable parts on smartphones may very well be the way of the future, there just doesn't seem to be anyway to improve on what's already here without some drastic improvement like upgradability.

As far as making Windows 10 free to android users seems like a very smart move on Microsoft's part. There are currently more android phones in peoples pockets than any other smartphone. Making their OS free to them is a very easy way to get their OS in everyone's pocket.

 

[VitalyT]

Windows for mobile - the most non-upgradable OS of all. A new phone for every OS update - that's MS policy on how to maximize profit.

 

[Skidmarksdeluxe]

And who knows, perhaps this sort of thing could catch on to the point where handsets are sold as barebones devices that allow users to select the OS of their choice during the setup process

If you would have said that a year ago I would have laughed it off but not it seems like that might really be the way of the future.

There hasn't been any real innovation in the smartphone segment for the last few years, interchangeable parts on smartphones may very well be the way of the future, there just doesn't seem to be anyway to improve on what's already here without some drastic improvement like upgradability.

As far as making Windows 10 free to android users seems like a very smart move on Microsoft's part. There are currently more android phones in peoples pockets than any other smartphone. Making their OS free to them is a very easy way to get their OS in everyone's pocket.

I fully agree. This could be a very shrewd move by MS.
The problem is that if you don't like it how do you switch back to Android? Go to Google sheepishly with a hangdog look on your face and hat in hand?...

 

[Kibaruk]

If I can add, it's a good dream!

It doesn't sound like something hard to happen, specially the way windows works with drivers.

 

[gamoniac]

Windows for mobile - the most non-upgradable OS of all. A new phone for every OS update - that's MS policy on how to maximize profit.

Errr.... Windows for Mobile was way back in the mid 2000 (pre iPhone I may add). My wife's Lumia 920 has been receiving periodic updates for 2.5 years. It is the most upgradable phone OS on the market, no doubt.

 

[Archean]

Windows for mobile - the most non-upgradable OS of all. A new phone for every OS update - that's MS policy on how to maximize profit.

Everyone Windows Phone launched todate, is receiving updates, even low end sets like 520. I've four Lumias, and 3 of them already received upto denim updates, while the last one I.e. 620 will receive is shortly.

On the contrary your comment is 'nearly (not totally) true/applicable about Android, I don't remember any of androids I've used receiving beyond 1/2 major updates.