Microsoft courts Android users with new Garage apps

Some would think hell might have frozen over this week. Just a few days ago, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella boldy and publicly proclaimed that Microsoft hearts (loves) Linux, after years of deriding not just the operating system itself but the whole open source culture that gave birth to it. Now the company seems to be trying to woo the Android crowd by highlighting not one but two Android apps plus an Android Wear app on its Microsoft Garage website. And these apps don't even have anything to do with any of the company's own apps and services. Well, except perhaps Bing.

Microsoft Garage itself is already a break from the outdated and drab image that Microsoft has in the public's eyes. Growing out of its Office Labs, Garage has become both a thought and physical space were employees are allowed to experiment with apps and solutions that go beyond the confines of Microsoft's products. Although Microsoft has not been averse to developing apps for both Google's platform (though the feeling doesn't seem to be mutual), Microsoft's Android apps all revolve around its own apps and services. That is, until now.

With Next Lock Screen, Microsoft jumps into the already saturated world of Android homescreen and lockscreen alternatives. But this is not just your ordinary lock screen and comes with a few features that could make it a more viable option, especially for those who need jumping right into the stuff they need right from the lock screen. Having your calendar appointments displayed on the lockscreen isn't exactly new. What's new is being able to swipe that meeting entry and immediately dial into the corresponding conference call and with the right PIN. No more punching in digits, especially when you're on the go. There's also some space for your favorite apps to jump into immediately and the option to set your choice of wallpaper.

In terms of purpose, Journeys & Notes is a bit more focused. It might not be obvious from the name, but this app is intended to be a social one. In its essence, it is a way for users to keep a diary of their travels, from taking a bus home or taking a vacation to another country. The Journey part is quite simple, where you set the origin and destination locations as well as your travel mode. The meat of the interaction, however, comes via the Notes, where other travelers who have also taken that same journey will be able to share their experiences, discoveries, and secret sights with others who will be taking the same path.

Torque isn't Microsoft's first Android Wear app, but it is one that has definitely more ambition, because it attempts to replace Google Now with Bing, but in an admittedly more efficient way. Instead of having to audibly say "OK, Google" or whatever phrase may be en vogue, you simply have to lift your smarwatch-wearing arm and give it a twist to trigger the app, which basically launches Bing in voice search mode. The app is noted to work well on Samsung and LG smartwatches but seems to have an issue with the Moto 360.

These apps aren't exactly groundbreaking but they are quite interesting, useful, and maybe even innovative. What may be groundbreaking is that they come from Microsoft without involving Microsoft products (except Bing). Is this really the new Microsoft or is this just a trend that's going to buck when the guards change? Even our magic 8 ball remains silent on that one so perhaps the only advice we can give it "enjoy it while it lasts".

SOURCE: Microsoft