Microsoft and Xiaomi are collaborating to create AI speakers, smartphones and more

Microsoft and Xiaomi have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to work closely in cloud computing, AI and hardware. Specifically, Microsoft is planning to allow Xiaomi to use cloud computing products, including Azure, to develop upgradable phones, laptops, and smart devices to deliver they enter the international market. At the same time, the partnership will also help Microsoft reach the Chinese market.

Both are also discussing how to integrate Microsoft Cortana with the Mi AI, the smart speaker with a mid-range price and a modern look. So far, Microsoft has only developed a Cortana, Harmon Kardon Invoke smart speaker, to compete with other popular digital assistants from Amazon and Google.

Microsoft and Xiaomi are also negotiating projects that will use Microsoft's different AI technologies, including integrated AI in voice conversations and services like Bing, Edge and Skype. Because the two companies only sign memos, their partnerships are not so legally binding and unclear about any financial issue.

Microsoft and Xiaomi began their relationship since 2015, when they signed a contract to test Windows 10 on Xiaomi devices. Last year, Xiaomi was the 5th most popular smartphone company in the world, selling 92.4 million phones, followed by Apple, Samsung and Huawei, according to IDC data. Xiaomi announced in a press release that it benefited from "Microsoft's leading global technology in cloud computing and AI".

Many partnerships between large corporations are beginning to appear. Tencent and Samsung have announced that they will invest in AI and games together.

See more:

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3. Xiaomi phones will soon be preinstalled with Microsoft applications