(Telecompaper) Xiaomi has agreed to buy around 1,500 patents from Microsoft and start loading Microsoft Office and Skype on its Android smartphones and tablets. The companies' new collaboration also includes a cross-license and patent transfer agreement. Beginning in September, Xiaomi Android devices, including the Mi 5, Mi Max, Mi 4s, Redmi Note 3 and Redmi 3, will come pre-installed with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and Skype applications. Specific offerings may vary by device, market and mobile operator.