Microsoft, Xiaomi agree on patent cross-licensing, Office and Skype apps will come pre-loaded

The deal also includes a patent cross-licensing arrangement and a commitment by Xiaomi to install copies of Microsoft software.
Software maker Microsoft Corp is selling about 1,500 of its patents to Chinese device maker Xiaomi, a rare departure for the US company and part of what the two companies say is the start of a long-term partnership.
The deal, announced on Wednesday, also includes a patent cross-licensing arrangement and a commitment by Xiaomi to install copies of Microsoft software, in