Tag: Microsoft

  • Microsoft Teases Release Dates for Surface Laptop 8 and Pro 12

    Microsoft Teases Release Dates for Surface Laptop 8 and Pro 12

    It looks like Microsoft is planning to unveil more Surface products than usual this year. According to Windows Central, last week it was reported that the company intends to launch smaller versions of the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, likely as updates to the Surface Laptop Go and Surface Go.

    Upcoming Devices

    These new devices are expected to be released ‘in the coming weeks’ and will likely feature Snapdragon X and Snapdragon X Plus series chipsets. Additionally, a new lineup of x86-powered Surface products seems to be on the horizon. Microsoft has scheduled a launch event for January 30, between 15:00 and 16:00 UTC, although the specific details of what will be announced remain a mystery. However, the Surface division has confirmed that a ‘major announcement’ is on the way concerning its ‘for Business’ segment.

    Previous Launches

    Last year, a similar event saw the introduction of the Surface Laptop 6 for Business and the Surface Pro 10 for Business, which were based on Intel’s Meteor Lake architecture. In contrast, Microsoft waited until June to reveal the ARM-based Surface Laptop 7 and Surface Pro 11 (currently priced at $989.99 on Amazon); it’s believed that successors based on Snapdragon X2 will debut ‘later this year’.

    New Features

    Meanwhile, the upcoming Surface Laptop 8 and Surface Pro 12 are likely to feature Core Ultra 5 226V, Core Ultra 7 266V, and Core Ultra 7 268V processors along with up to 32 GB of LPDDR5X RAM. These new ‘for Business’ versions are also set to showcase design updates that Microsoft introduced with last year’s consumer models, like thinner display bezels on the Surface Laptop series. It’s important to note that while these devices will be marketed primarily to business customers, regular consumers can still buy them through the company’s online store.

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  • Xbox’s Journey: From Shutdown Rumors to Growth Challenges

    Xbox’s Journey: From Shutdown Rumors to Growth Challenges

    A recent article from The Information has ignited discussions about the future of Microsoft’s Xbox division. The report claims that in 2021, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella contemplated the idea of shutting down the gaming division. At a crucial moment, Nadella weighed the option of exiting the gaming industry or significantly expanding it, a decision that resulted in the purchases of key gaming companies Bethesda for $7.5 billion and Activision Blizzard for $75.4 billion.

    Performance Concerns

    Microsoft has rejected these allegations, but the report brings up significant issues regarding the division’s success and what lies ahead. Xbox hardware sales have notably dropped, with a reported decrease of 29% compared to the previous year. In light of this, Microsoft is increasingly prioritizing its Game Pass subscription service.

    Revenue Goals

    Even with this change in focus, the Xbox division fell short of its revenue growth targets in 2023, missing the 11% goal that was tied to CEO Satya Nadella’s bonuses. Interestingly, Microsoft has stopped linking Nadella’s pay to the growth of Game Pass, possibly indicating a decline in confidence regarding this model. The company aims to have over 100 million subscribers by 2030, a significant jump from the 34 million reported in February 2024. Achieving this target would necessitate tripling the subscriber count over five years, requiring an annual growth of 40%.

    Subscription Growth

    Microsoft has reported a 36% increase in subscriptions since 2022, although this number hasn’t been confirmed by an outside source. The company has applauded recent achievements, such as record Game Pass subscriptions following the launch of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, yet there are still worries about the sustainability of this growth.

    Views on the future of Game Pass are mixed among experts and industry watchers. Michael Pachter, a prominent analyst, believes there’s promise in the model and remarked, “Seventy billion dollars is a big investment. Short-term losses are fine if Game Pass proves to be a reliable source of recurring revenue over time.” Conversely, Gus Zinn from the Macquarie Science and Technology Fund has voiced skepticism about the widespread acceptance of the Game Pass model. Developers also share these apprehensions, with estimates suggesting that premium game sales on Xbox consoles could fall by as much as 80% when those games are accessible through Game Pass.

    Commitment to Xbox

    In response to these debates, Microsoft has reiterated its dedication to the Xbox brand. A company representative stated that Microsoft is focused on gaming and underscored Satya Nadella’s “all-in” strategy.

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  • Bill Gates Calls Missing Mobile Revolution His Biggest Mistake

    Bill Gates Calls Missing Mobile Revolution His Biggest Mistake

    Bill Gates, the Microsoft co-founder, has recently shared insights about a major mistake in his career that resulted in a massive loss of $400 billion for the company. During an event organized by venture capital firm Village Global, Gates openly talked about Microsoft’s inability to establish itself in the mobile operating system arena, which paved the way for Google’s Android to become the leading alternative to Apple’s platform.

    A Critical Error

    “In the realm of software, especially regarding platforms, these markets are winner-take-all,” Gates remarked while speaking with Eventbrite CEO Julia Hartz. “The most significant error was the management missteps I made that led Microsoft to miss out on what Android has become. Android is now the standard for non-Apple mobile platforms. Microsoft should have naturally triumphed in this area.” Gates did some quick calculations and noted that if Microsoft had managed to secure the second position in the mobile OS market, it could have obtained a significant $400 billion share—funds that have instead strengthened Google.

    The Timing Issue

    The iPhone from Apple was launched in June 2007, and Android devices followed in September 2008. Microsoft’s Windows Phone 7 only entered the market later, in October 2010, by which time Android and iOS had almost entirely captured the mobile OS market, holding 99.9% of the share. Gates recognized that arriving late to this sector sealed Microsoft’s fate in the mobile world. “If you show up with significantly fewer apps, you’re headed for total failure,” he stated.

    Microsoft’s blunder in mobile starkly contrasts with its stronghold in the PC industry. The Windows OS revolutionized personal computing during the ’90s and still plays a crucial role in its $3 trillion market valuation. However, as Gates pointed out, if Microsoft had been successful in mobile, “we would be the leading company.”

    A Response from Android’s Co-Founder

    Rich Miner, co-founder of Android, did not ignore Gates’ comments. He took to X (formerly Twitter) to respond: “I literally helped create Android to stop Microsoft from dominating the phone market like they did with PCs—suppressing innovation. So, it’s amusing for me to hear Gates complain about losing mobile to Android.”

    Thus, it seems Microsoft inadvertently played a role in the creation of Android. At its peak, Microsoft’s strong presence in the PC market was often criticized for hindering competition and innovation. On the other hand, Android’s open-source framework was intentionally created to offer an alternative to proprietary systems like those of Microsoft and Apple.

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  • Minecraft 2 Revealed as Spiritual Successor to Legendary Game

    Minecraft 2 Revealed as Spiritual Successor to Legendary Game

    In Minecraft, players can express their imagination by constructing whatever they want using blocky pixels – from grand castles to lush forests or even entire worlds beneath the sea. When Markus Persson, who is more famously known as Notch, first released the game in May 2009, it struck a chord with gamers of every age. By 2020, Minecraft had achieved over 200 million copies sold, making it the top-selling game ever, even beating out GTA 5.

    Major Acquisition by Microsoft

    About five years post-launch, Notch decided to sell Mojang Studios, the creators of Minecraft, to Microsoft for an impressive $2.5 billion. Microsoft then brought the studio into its Xbox Game Studios umbrella and has kept providing support for the game, which still enjoys a vast player community. In 2024, Minecraft saw the release of two significant expansions, Tricky Trials and The Garden Awakens, introducing players to a plethora of new experiences. Yet even with these updates, the demand for a genuine Minecraft 2 remains high among the community.

    Survey Sparks Interest

    On January 1, Minecraft’s creator, Markus Persson, released a survey to gauge the community’s interest in whether he should work on a roguelike game he had started or pivot to developing Minecraft 2. The results were clear: 80% of those who participated preferred the idea of a sequel to Minecraft.

    Just two days later, Notch returned to the community, stating that he had “basically announced Minecraft 2” via the survey. Nevertheless, the Swedish developer labeled it as a “spiritual successor”, indicating that it would be a game influenced by Minecraft but with its own unique direction. Notch further explained:

    “I was thinking that maybe people REALLY do want me to create another game that’s really similar to the first one, and I’m enjoying making games again.”

    Community Reactions

    For fans of Minecraft, these comments ignite a sense of hope, making the idea of a sequel feel more attainable. However, it’s important to highlight that Notch has previously teased game projects that never came to fruition, leaving the chance that “Minecraft 2” might not ever be released. Even if it does become a reality, there’s uncertainty about how closely it could mirror the original, considering that Microsoft now owns the rights to Minecraft. On Reddit, fans share a blend of curiosity and doubt, keeping an open mind about the possibility of a successor.

    Source: Link


  • AI Phishing Scams Target Corporate Executives

    AI Phishing Scams Target Corporate Executives

    According to the Financial Times, as reported by Gadgets360, there’s been a notable rise in phishing attacks that utilize AI technology to make them seem more human-like and slip past security measures.

    Targeting Corporate Executives

    These attacks primarily target high-level executives at companies such as eBay and the insurance provider Beazley. The fake emails are crafted with personal details about the employees, making them more appealing to open and click on.

    Understanding Phishing

    Phishing refers to deceptive emails or messages that aim to fool individuals into clicking on harmful links or downloading malware. A well-known instance of phishing is the Nigerian Prince scam, which claimed to offer a large financial reward in exchange for help.

    The Complexity of AI Attacks

    In contrast, these AI-driven phishing attempts appear more sophisticated. They seem to be built on extensive data regarding employees, which is gathered from social media and various other platforms, making them persuasive enough to bypass standard security systems.

    According to Check Point, Microsoft has been the most frequently impersonated brand in phishing activities, constituting 38% of all brand phishing attempts in the first quarter of 2024. Following Microsoft, Google and LinkedIn each accounted for 11% of the phishing attempts.

    Source: Link

  • Google Chrome Launches On-Device AI Scam Detection for Privacy

    Google Chrome Launches On-Device AI Scam Detection for Privacy

    Google has introduced a fresh AI scam-detection tool in the newest Chrome Canary version. Named “Client Side Detection Brand and Intent for Scam Detection,” this feature employs a large language model located on your device to examine webpages on Windows, Mac, and Linux systems.

    On-Device Analysis

    This approach means that all processing happens directly on your computer, ensuring that your browsing information remains private and isn’t sent to external servers. It’s quite similar to the “scareware blocker” recently released by Microsoft Edge, but Chrome’s feature will be automatically activated when it officially rolls out.

    Rising Online Threats

    This security enhancement comes at a time when online dangers are increasing. Microsoft’s Digital Defense Report highlights that cybercriminals and even state actors launch over 600 million attacks each day. Earlier this year, Chrome began alerting users about suspicious downloads with a new full-page warning.

    Beyond Security Features

    However, Chrome’s AI capabilities extend beyond just providing security. For example, a new “Store reviews” function collects and summarizes ratings from sites like Trustpilot. To try out the new scam detection feature, users need to download the latest Canary version and enable the appropriate option in chrome://flags.

    Microsoft’s Concerns

    In other news, Microsoft reported that the Russian hacking group Nobelium managed to breach its corporate network and accessed the email accounts of top executives for approximately a month. This incident led Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to stress that security remains the company’s top priority.

    Source: Link

  • Microsoft AI Chief Predicts Conversational AI Will Replace Browsers by 2029

    Microsoft AI Chief Predicts Conversational AI Will Replace Browsers by 2029

    Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman forecasts that within the next three to five years, conversational AI will take over as the main way for users to interact with online content, replacing traditional web browsers.

    Changing the Landscape of Online Interaction

    In a recent chat with The Verge, Suleyman expressed his views on how interfaces powered by AI could transform the way we search and explore the internet. He criticized classic search engines, highlighting that their dependence on structured searches and the outdated "10 blue links" approach is no longer effective.

    Progress in AI Development

    Suleyman is in charge of Microsoft’s consumer products like Bing, Edge, MSN, and Copilot. His team is making strides in minimizing AI hallucinations, a significant hurdle in creating more dependable AI interactions. The long-term collaboration between Microsoft and OpenAI is driving these enhancements forward.

    A Cautious Perspective on AGI

    Regarding artificial general intelligence (AGI), Suleyman takes a more measured view compared to some of his peers in the industry. While OpenAI’s Sam Altman believes AGI could be imminent with current technologies, Suleyman predicts it will take between two to ten years. He characterizes AGI not as superintelligence but rather as a system capable of performing most knowledge-based tasks efficiently.

    Distinct Personalities in AI Companions

    Microsoft’s approach focuses on crafting AI companions that possess unique personalities and emotional intelligence. Suleyman is confident that these attributes will differentiate their products in a competitive landscape. Apple stands as a formidable rival, leveraging its dominance over iOS distribution channels to maintain a strong position.

    The Shift Towards AI Interfaces

    These advancements indicate a definitive shift towards AI-driven interfaces, with companies like Google and OpenAI also exploring similar initiatives, such as Google’s Jarvis and possible ChatGPT-boosted browsers.

    Source: Link

  • Google Urges FTC to Block Microsoft’s OpenAI Cloud Partnership

    Google Urges FTC to Block Microsoft’s OpenAI Cloud Partnership

    Google has requested the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to look into Microsoft’s exclusive cloud service deal with OpenAI. The Information, as reported by Reuters, indicates that this discussion took place while the FTC was probing Google about Microsoft’s business practices as part of a wider investigation.

    Microsoft and OpenAI’s Growing Partnership

    The alliance between Microsoft and OpenAI started back in 2019 when Microsoft made an initial investment of one billion dollars, which has now surged to $13 billion. In return for this investment, Microsoft gained exclusive rights to provide hosting for OpenAI’s services on its cloud platform. Notably, Microsoft intervened to prevent the ousting of Sam Altman last year.

    Shift from Non-Profit to For-Profit

    OpenAI was founded in 2015 as a non-profit research organization, but things took a turn with the establishment of OpenAI Global in 2019, which operates as a for-profit branch.

    According to a report from The Financial Times, OpenAI may be thinking about dropping a clause related to Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) in their agreement, which would have limited Microsoft’s access to more advanced models in exchange for additional investments. Recently, OpenAI rolled out a subscription plan priced at $200, named ChatGPT Pro, aimed at researchers and engineers.

    Impact on Competitors

    Competing companies in the cloud market, such as Google and Amazon, find themselves having to rent Microsoft’s servers, even if they are mainly focused on utilizing OpenAI’s technology. Microsoft’s rivals argue that this could lead to higher costs for consumers.

    Source: Link

  • Microsoft Rolls Out Full-Screen Ads for Windows 10 Users

    Microsoft Rolls Out Full-Screen Ads for Windows 10 Users

    Microsoft has a history of irritating users to encourage upgrades from older Windows versions, and now they seem to be focusing on persuading people to buy new PCs—particularly from the Microsoft Surface Laptop range. While the specific laptop is not mentioned, the intent is unmistakable. Microsoft is shifting its strategy from merely encouraging users to leave Windows 10 to pushing them towards replacing outdated hardware.

    The Role of Copilot+

    Copilot+, an AI feature that comes standard in Windows 11, plays a major role in these new advertisements. A full-screen prompt, which isn’t appearing for every Windows 10 user just yet, encourages people to “level up” by purchasing a PC compatible with Copilot+. The catch here is that only a limited number of machines currently meet the criteria for this new feature. For a device to be certified for Copilot+, it must have an integrated neural processing unit capable of executing at least 40 trillion operations per second. Right now, the only PCs available that fulfill this requirement utilize Snapdragon X, Intel Core Ultra, or AMD Ryzen AI processors.

    A Push for New Sales

    This strategy is clearly aimed at increasing the sales of new PCs. Windows 10 has maintained high user numbers for quite a while; however, since late 2021, the majority of new PCs sold have come equipped with Windows 11. This campaign is primarily focused on users clinging to their old hardware, and its aggressive and seemingly urgent approach might just nudge less tech-savvy users to make the switch. For those who wish to remain on Windows 10 and keep their older systems, there are a few alternatives, but the official support from Microsoft will only extend for a year. On the other hand, unofficial alternatives are mainly for users with more technical skills.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, Microsoft’s current marketing efforts highlight a trend towards getting users to update their hardware rather than just their software. With the introduction of features like Copilot+, they are making a clear push for modern machines, leaving older systems behind. While some users may find ways to stick to their current setups, the pressure from these ads could lead many to consider new purchases.

    Source: Link,Link

  • Microsoft’s Windows 365: The Future of Traditional PCs?

    Microsoft’s Windows 365: The Future of Traditional PCs?

    Microsoft has rolled out the Windows 365 Link, marking its first desktop computer aimed solely at linking users with Windows in the cloud. With a price tag of $349, this device is set to hit the market in April 2025, catering primarily to business clients.

    Design and Portability

    The Windows 365 Link boasts a stylish and portable design, with dimensions of 120x120x30 mm and weighing less than a pound. This compact size makes it perfect for hot-desking and shared office environments. It features a fanless design, ensuring silent operation, and has a chic puck-like shape, allowing it to rest on a desk or be mounted behind a monitor. The device powers up in seconds and resumes from sleep almost immediately.

    Specifications

    Equipped with an Intel processor, the device includes 8GB of RAM and 64GB of built-in storage. Although the storage capacity is low, the device relies completely on cloud computing, removing the necessity for local software or data. It is capable of supporting dual 4K monitors, making it a great option for contemporary office settings that demand high-resolution screens.

    The device is fitted with a wide range of ports, featuring three USB-A 3.2 ports, one USB-C 3.2 port, an Ethernet jack, an audio jack, and both HDMI and DisplayPort for external display connections. It also offers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, providing speedy and dependable wireless connectivity. This strong connectivity ensures that the Windows 365 Link is versatile enough for different office layouts and accessories.


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