In remarks about Microsoft Office across a variety of platforms, a Czech executive told a local website that Microsoft Office for iOS and Android was coming in the first quarter of 2013. Quickly thereafter, A US Microsoft representative, Frank Shaw, denied the dates in a tweet, saying, “the information shared by our Czech Republic subsidiary is not accurate. We have nothing further to share.”
His remarks were reported on the Czech Language website, INHED, in which he said, “In addition to Windows, Office will be also available on other operating systems, Windows Phone, Windows RT, Mac OS, Android, iOS and Symbian,” a translation reported at Cult of Android earlier today. There was a press release that came along with the remarks, confirming that iOS Office 2013 would be available as early as December of this year, and a following February 2013 release for non-business consumers.
Microsoft has already announced that Office mobile will be available on iOS and Android, as well as their own Windows phones and tablets, of course, but this is the first indication of a timeline. While it looks like a standard corporate denial, until there’s official confirmation of a release date, we all need to treat these leaks and denials as the rumors they are. It makes more sense for any mobile version of Office to launch on Microsoft hardware, like the upcoming Windows 8 RT devices, before it comes to a competitor like iOS.
Electronista is reporting, however, that a US spokesperson for Microsoft did say, “We have said previously Office Mobile will work across Windows Phones, Android phones and iOS.” Just not when, or how soon after it comes out for Windows 8 devices. Only time, or possibly more leaks, will tell.
Source: IHNED
Via: Electronista
Image: BGR
