Your Tech Story

Microsoft

EU Hits Microsoft with Antitrust Charges for Teams Bundling

EU Hits Microsoft with Antitrust Charges for Teams Bundling

Leave a Comment / Microsoft, News, Tech News / By

Microsoft has been accused by the European Union of breaking competition laws by illegally combining its Teams chat program with Office 365 and other Microsoft 365 subscriptions. This is the very first antitrust lawsuit Microsoft has faced in the European Union in fifteen years, after challenges regarding the bundling of Internet Explorer together with Windows Media Player.

Charge Specifications

EU Hits Microsoft with Antitrust Charges for Teams Bundling

Image Source: forbes.com

The European Commission declared its initial assessment that Microsoft violated EU competition laws by linking its Teams offering to its well-liked Office 365 and Microsoft 365 productivity suites. The European Union expressed its worries in an announcement of objections, citing the perception that Teams’ bundling gives them an unfair advantage over rivals.

Microsoft's Reaction

Microsoft separated Teams from Office 365 in Europe in the previous year in response to the inquiry, and it later released the program as a stand-alone worldwide.  Despite the efforts shown by Microsoft to correct it, The European Commission remains worried. President Brad Smith of Microsoft has stated that the organization is ready to cooperate with the Commission and will endeavour to resolve its outstanding issues.

The Investigation's Beginnings

The antitrust inquiry got underway in July 2020 as a result of a Slack complaint.

Microsoft allegedly "illegally tied" Teams to Office, "forcibly installed it for millions of users, prevented its removal, and concealed the true cost to enterprise customers,"

theverge.com

according to Slack. Salesforce, the parent company of Slack, applauded the Commission’s conclusions, viewing them as a win for consumer choice and market competition.

Possible Repercussions

Should Microsoft be found in breach of antitrust laws, the company may be fined up to ten percent of its yearly global revenue. Like in previous years, the European Commission can additionally implement measures to guarantee equal competition. Microsoft was forced to create a variant of Windows with no Media Player in 2004 and add a browser ballot box to Windows in 2009 so that customers could select their preferred web browser.

Also Read: MiddleGame Ventures Hits €55M Milestone Towards €150M Fintech Fund

Final Thoughts

The accusations made against Microsoft highlight the continuous regulatory examination of big tech’s business practices. The investigation’s potential findings might have a big impact on Microsoft and the tech sector as a whole, reaffirming the European Union’s dedication to encouraging customer choice as well as competition in the world of technology.

 
Microsoft to Launch New AI Data Center on Abandoned Foxconn Wisconsin Property

Microsoft to Launch New AI Data Center on Abandoned Foxconn Wisconsin Property

Leave a Comment / Artificial Intellegence, Microsoft, News, Tech News / By

Microsoft Corporation has announced its acquisition of the abandoned Foxconn manufacturing site in Wisconsin, signaling a significant move towards establishing a cutting-edge AI data center. This development comes as a part of Microsoft’s strategic investment in expanding its infrastructure and technological footprint, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence.

Partnership for Progress

Microsoft to Launch New AI Data Center on Abandoned Foxconn Wisconsin Property

Image Source: msn.com

In a bid to empower local communities and foster economic growth, Microsoft will collaborate with Gateway Technical College. The partnership aims to train 1,000 individuals by 2030, equipping them with the skills necessary for roles within the data center and other related positions. Additionally, Microsoft plans to engage with 1,000 business leaders, facilitating the integration of AI technologies into their operations.

Political and Economic Implications

The decision to repurpose the Foxconn site also holds political significance, as President Biden views Wisconsin as a pivotal state for his 2024 reelection campaign. This move aligns with his efforts to engage with minority communities, exemplified by his upcoming meeting with volunteers in Racine’s Black community.

President Biden’s visit to Wisconsin is not only a political maneuver but also a nod to the economic potential of revitalizing abandoned industrial sites. His criticism of the Foxconn project as a “con” reflects a broader narrative surrounding failed promises of job creation and economic revival, which the acquisition by Microsoft seeks to rectify.

While Foxconn has reported growth in its Wisconsin operations since 2020, the takeover by Microsoft represents a new chapter for the site. Microsoft’s investment not only brings technological advancements but also holds the promise of job creation and economic rejuvenation for the region.

In parallel, Biden’s campaign is ramping up efforts to secure support from diverse voter demographics, with a significant focus on healthcare issues. A multi-million-dollar ad campaign underscores the importance of engaging with communities and addressing key concerns, including the impact of previous policies on healthcare accessibility.

Overall, Microsoft’s takeover of the Foxconn site stands as a beacon of technological innovation and economic revitalization, while also intertwining with broader political and social narratives shaping the upcoming election cycle.

Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Others Launch Child Safety Initiative

Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Others Launch Child Safety Initiative

Leave a Comment / Facebook, Google, Microsoft, News, Tech News / By

In an unprecedented move, tech behemoths Google, Microsoft, Facebook parent Meta, and seven leading AI companies have joined forces to combat the proliferation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on the internet. This coalition, spearheaded by non-profit organizations Thorn and All Tech is Human, marks a significant step in leveraging advanced technologies to protect vulnerable individuals.

The Genesis of Collaboration

Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Others Launch Child Safety Initiative

Image Source: in.mashable.com

Thorn, founded in 2012 by Hollywood icons Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher under its previous moniker, the DNA Foundation, has been at the forefront of developing tools to shield children from sexual exploitation. Their collaboration with All Tech is Human, based in New York, has catalyzed this groundbreaking alliance aimed at implementing robust safeguards within generative AI systems.

Safety by Design: A Paradigm Shift

Central to this initiative is the adoption of a “Safety by Design” principle in generative AI development. This paradigm advocates for preemptive measures that thwart the creation of CSAM throughout the entire lifecycle of an AI model. The newly released Thorn report underscores the urgency of embracing these principles, particularly in light of the escalating threat posed by AI-generated CSAM (AIG-CSAM).

Thorn’s impact report for 2022 revealed a staggering 824,466 instances of child abuse material identified. Last year, over 104 million suspected CSAM files were reported in the United States alone, underscoring the critical need for proactive interventions.

Tackling the Deepfake Menace

One of the most alarming trends addressed by this coalition is the surge in deepfake child pornography. With the accessibility of generative AI models, standalone systems capable of generating illicit content have proliferated on dark web platforms. This exponential growth in deepfake CSAM poses a grave challenge to law enforcement and child protection advocates.

Generative AI technologies have streamlined the process of content creation, enabling malicious actors to produce large volumes of CSAM by manipulating original images and videos. Thorn’s call to action urges all stakeholders in the AI ecosystem to commit to preventing the dissemination and production of CSAM, thereby safeguarding vulnerable populations from exploitation.

The collective resolve of industry leaders, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups underscores a paradigm shift towards responsible AI deployment. By prioritizing safety and ethical considerations in AI development, this coalition sets a precedent for leveraging technology as a force for societal good, particularly in protecting the most vulnerable members of our global community.

Microsoft Plans to Introduce Ads in Windows 11 Start Menu

Microsoft Plans to Introduce Ads in Windows 11 Start Menu

Leave a Comment / Microsoft, News, Tech News / By

Microsoft is introducing advertisements on the Start menu with a new trial feature in Windows 11. With this change, Microsoft Store services will be promoted through the Start menu’s Recommended area, which is normally used for file suggestions.

User Control and Restricted Rollout

Microsoft Plans to Introduce Ads in Windows 11 Start Menu

Image Source: pcmag.com

This feature won’t impact business devices used by companies; instead, it will be evaluated initially with Windows Insiders in the US Beta Channel. With Windows 11, users will be able to turn off these app advertisements in the Settings menu. Microsoft, however, is looking into user input to gauge how well these changes are received. Based on the feedback, Microsoft may decide to modify or delete these modifications.

Prior Advertising Trials

Microsoft’s latest move comes after previous attempts to test advertising in Windows 11, such as trials of File Explorer advertisements last year that were later turned off in beta versions. The business has been experimenting with Windows advertisements for more than ten years, and the Windows 10 lock screen and Start menu currently feature promotional content.

User Input and Future Modifications

The input that Windows testers offer on user experience will be crucial to the success of these advertising integrations. Should the feedback show a notable lack of happiness with these advertisements, Microsoft could reevaluate their incorporation into the final version of Windows 11.

Extension of Windows Shell Advertising

Microsoft has stepped up its efforts to market services and apps inside the Windows ecosystem throughout the last six months. More MSN material will be added to the Windows 10 and Windows 11 lock screens, the Widgets panel will be used as an advertisement board, and the Settings app will have Microsoft 365 subscription prompts integrated into it.

Turning Off Advertisements

Microsoft offers a simple way to stop these app promotions and suggestions for those who would rather not get them through the Start menu. Users may easily block these advertisements by going to Settings > Personalisation > Start and disabling “Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more.”

Also Read: Apple Loses Crown as World’s Top Smartphone Seller After iPhone Sales Drop 10%

Statement on the Feature by Microsoft

Microsoft made the following announcement while introducing this functionality to Windows Insiders:

"We are now trying out recommendations to help you discover great apps from the Microsoft Store under Recommended on the Start menu. This will appear only for Windows Insiders in the Beta Channel in the U.S. and will not apply to commercial devices (devices managed by organizations). This can be turned off by going to Settings > Personalization > Start and turning off the toggle for 'Show recommendations for tips, app promotions, and more.'"

yahoo.com
Microsoft-Supported Rubrik Faces $354 Million Loss in Latest IPO Filing

Microsoft-Supported Rubrik Faces $354 Million Loss in Latest IPO Filing

Leave a Comment / Microsoft, News, Tech News / By

Microsoft-backed cloud and data security firm Rubrik has filed for an IPO, disclosing increasing revenue as well as losses.

Announcement of IPO and Key Players

According to the filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Wells Fargo & Co., Barclays, Citigroup, and Goldman Sachs Group are leading Rubrik’s initial public offering (IPO). The business plans to issue its shares under the ticker name RBRK on the New York Stock Exchange.

Financial Information and Plans for Fundraising

Microsoft-Supported Rubrik Faces $354 Million Loss in Latest IPO Filing

Image Source: bnnbloomberg.ca

Although Rubrik has not yet revealed the amount or price of its intended share, Bloomberg News stated that the company may aim to raise between US$500 million and US$700 million through the IPO. This action comes after Reddit and Astera Labs’ triumphant initial public offerings (IPOs) last month, which exceeded their fundraising targets and saw an increase in trading debuts.

The CEO's View on Cybersecurity

Cyberattacks are a constant problem for both enterprises and governments, as noted by Bipul Sinha, the chairman and CEO of Rubrik, in a letter to investors included in the prospectus. The filing underscores the importance of cybersecurity in today’s digital economy as it coincides with an increasing trend of firms seeking money through public listings.

Assessment and Development KPIs Palo Alto, California-based Rubrik was valued at $4 billion with Microsoft’s 2021 investment. A 5% rise in overall revenue to $627.9 million over the prior year was made possible by the company’s subscription annual recurring revenue (ARR), which surged by 47% year over year despite the $354 million loss.

Listing Schemes and Equities Sign

Although the amount of the sale was not disclosed, Rubrik intends to list its Class A common stock under the symbol “RBRK” on the New York Stock Exchange, which will be a big step towards the company’s goal of becoming public.

Through its initial public offering (IPO) filing, Rubrik demonstrates its goal of navigating the cybersecurity environment and utilising its collaboration with Microsoft to propel innovation and growth within the cloud and data security industry.

Also Read: ChatGPT Free Version Now Accessible Without Account Login

“CrowdStrike Falcon has become cybersecurity’s source of truth and platform of record. Our partnership with Rubrik strengthens CrowdStrike’s data gravity, unifying threat detection with data discovery, classification and backup,” said Daniel Bernard, chief business officer at CrowdStrike. “Through this partnership, we’re delivering the visibility and context security teams need to prioritize and accelerate response actions required to stop breaches of sensitive information – all from a single platform.”

ciosea.economictimes.indiatimes.com
Microsoft Announces Pavan Davuluri as the New Chief of Windows and Surface

Microsoft Announces Pavan Davuluri as the New Chief of Windows and Surface

Leave a Comment / Microsoft, News, Tech News / By

Microsoft made a significant announcement on Monday, revealing Pavan Davuluri as the new head of its Windows operating system and Surface devices teams. This strategic move follows the departure of Panos Panay to Amazon last fall, positioning Davuluri, a seasoned Microsoft executive, to lead these critical divisions.

Davuluri boasts an extensive career at Microsoft, having joined the company in 2001 and serving as corporate vice president for nearly three years before this latest appointment. With a deep understanding of Microsoft’s ethos and strategic direction, Davuluri steps into his new role with a wealth of experience and insight.

Windows' Ongoing Relevance

Microsoft Announces Pavan Davuluri as the New Chief of Windows and Surface

Image Source: newsbytesapp.com

Despite the evolving landscape of technology and competition, Windows remains a cornerstone of Microsoft’s offerings. The operating system continues to be pivotal for clients making decisions about cloud infrastructure for their IT projects. This enduring reliance on Windows underscores its enduring significance within Microsoft’s ecosystem.

This move comes at a crucial juncture as Microsoft and other industry leaders adjust their strategies to leverage generative AI and cater to evolving market demands.

Davuluri’s promotion aligns with Microsoft’s recent organizational developments, including the appointment of Mustafa Suleyman, former DeepMind co-founder, to lead Microsoft AI. Mikhail Parakhin, CEO of advertising and web services, will also join Microsoft AI, overseeing vital components like the Bing search engine and Edge browser.

Parakhin’s transition signals a broader realignment within Microsoft’s leadership structure, with a focus on synergy and streamlined operations under the stewardship of Kevin Scott, Microsoft’s technology chief.

Davuluri’s tenure begins on a high note, coinciding with Microsoft’s launch of Surface PCs featuring innovative functionalities like the Copilot button for seamless access to the Windows chatbot. In a statement, Davuluri expressed pride in his team’s accomplishments, highlighting their dedication to delivering exceptional experiences for customers.

Also Read: Adam Neumann and Partners Offer More Than $500 Million for WeWork

Microsoft’s strategic moves reflect its commitment to innovation and adaptability in a dynamic industry landscape. Davuluri’s leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of Windows and Surface devices, ensuring continued relevance and excellence in Microsoft’s product offerings.