Microsoft launch first application for market rival Google Android

Software giants Microsoft have launched their first application for Google Android, a direct rival to the Windows Mobile.

The free software - called Tag - allows users to turn their handset camera into a barcode reader.

The BBC reports that Tag allows barcodes to become coupons that link people to websites, pass on information or give visitors a discount in an online store.

The Microsoft Tag Reader also exists on Iphone, Symbian and Blackberry handsets although the Android has been the last to receive the application.

Market leaders

Microsoft currently commands a stronger share of the mobile OS market than Google although both lag behind the stranglehold of Apple which - according to the BBC - announced in early January that more than three billion software applications had been downloaded from its mobile apps store.

The Tag Reader isn't the only Android application to hit the headlines this week.

Not ones to be overshadowed by their market rivals, Google added the ability to universally search for contacts, music and applications using voice and images.

Android users can now utilise the touch screen capabilities of their handset by drawing a letter to initiate a search.

The application - called Gesture Search - is available for download on 2.0+ Androids.