windowsphone-apps-5Microsoft is working with a third-party developer to release a new app for Android users designed to make it easier to transition to Windows Phone. The app, dubbed ‘Switch to Windows Phone,’ uses technology from app search engine Quixey to identify and suggest Windows Phone apps that replicate or at least approximate the apps installed on the user’s Android device.

It’s the latest attempt by Microsoft to chip away at devices powered by Google’s Android and win new users for Windows Phone devices.

The app was originally slated for release this week but has been delayed until next week, according to a report by Neowin. Microsoft isn’t commenting on the plans. NetworkWorld was first to report news of the app earlier this week.

According to the NetworkWorld report, the Android version of the app will inventory the user’s device and store a record of the user’s Android apps via their Microsoft account. A companion Windows Phone app then finds the same apps in the Windows Phone store for the user to install on a new Windows Phone.

Follow-up: First look: Microsoft’s ‘Switch to Windows Phone’ app for Android

Post updated on 4/30 to clarify how the app inventory is stored.

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