Microsoft Planning To Launch Dedicated Antivirus Software For Android, iOS Platforms

Microsoft is mulling to launch dedicated antivirus software for Android and iOS platforms. According to Microsoft’s Cybersecurity Solutions Group, the antivirus software will be called Defender Advanced Threat Protection (ATP). Microsoft said the software will offer preventive protection and post-breach detection services. Other services will include automated investigation and responses. Most Android devices have Google Play Protect installed by default to shield from attacks. Apple’s iOS devices too are safe from malware attacks. Microsoft said the main function of the software will be to detect malware on a device. When rolled out, it will empower people in guarding their usernames and passwords or other account details. When launched, it will be a boon for businesses in blocking malware and phishing attacks.

The company said the safety and security of data in complex situations are paramount for users. By providing a comprehensive solution across multiple platforms, the ATP will help achieve amazing things. The software will proactively hunt across apps and endpoints. It will automatically detect, investigate, and block attacks. The company’s blog post did not reveal the time of the launch. It is likely that the software will be launched later this year. Microsoft said it will share a preview of its mobile security solutions at the forthcoming RSA Conference. The latest decision reflects Microsoft’s growing focus on smartphone products. The company has also unified Office by combining the Word, Excel and PowerPoint apps for the Android.

Microsoft’s Defender ATP is already available on Windows PCs. The company has now announced to extend its services to Linux. This comes within a year of the software’s release for macOS systems. The development is significant as hackers have shifted their attention to Linux and macOS platforms in recent times. Microsoft has decades of experience with the OS for PCs. But it failed categorically to gain the lead role in the smartphone operating systems market. The company stopped building new Windows mobile features in 2017. Microsoft’s latest offering is just an effort to sell its products to consumers using other companies’ products.