Microsoft expands Office Online reach with Chrome App Store

After years of jealously protecting its turf, Microsoft now appears serious about getting its Office software in the hands of as many users as possible.

Overnight the company has added Chrome App Store links for Word Online, PowerPoint Online and OneNote Online.

Microsoft says Excel Online will be in the store soon. 

It's especially interesting to see Google's online store host Microsoft's office apps alongside its own direct competitors including Google Docs and Google Sheets.

Strictly speaking, Microsoft’s entries in the Chrome App Store are not apps but links from the Chrome app launcher to the online sites. If you’ve set up Chrome to store a Windows Live log-in, the links will take you straight to the online apps.

Distributing free Office apps as widely as possible is a smart move by Microsoft as it serves to strengthen the Office brand and act as a gateway to Office 365 subscription sales.