EducateKaro – Handpicked Tech & Startup News: Summarized for You
Handpicked Tech & Startup News: Summarized for You
Microsoft is expanding its renewable energy portfolio by adding 475 MW of solar power across Illinois, Michigan, and Missouri to meet the rising energy demands of its data centers. Solar’s quick installation and lower costs make it an ideal choice. With growing AI power needs, Microsoft continues to invest in renewables for faster, sustainable energy solutions.
Read more on TechCrunch
Microsoft’s rolling out Copilot for Gaming next month, starting on the Xbox mobile app for Insiders. It’ll guide players with tips, like coaching Overwatch 2 moves or Minecraft crafting, acting as a handy sidekick. Though initial features are basic, Microsoft’s big AI vision will evolve with feedback. Exciting stuff!
Read more on TheVerge
Microsoft is gearing up to rival OpenAI with its own AI models, dubbed ‘MAI,’ for Microsoft 365 Copilot. Led by Mustafa Suleyman, the team is testing these advanced models, which match OpenAI’s benchmarks, and exploring third-party options like xAI. A potential API release later this year could shake up the AI scene.
Read more on YourStory
After 23 years, Skype is closing on May 5, 2025, as Microsoft shifts focus to Teams. Acquired 14 years ago, Skype’s 36 million users have 10 weeks to migrate to Teams or download their data. Teams’ consumer calls have soared, while Skype’s faded. It’s a nostalgic end for a pioneer, but Teams is Microsoft’s future.
Read more on TechCrunch
Microsoft has introduced Majorana 1, the first quantum chip featuring a Topological Core. It utilizes a new state of matter known as topoconductors to develop stable and scalable qubits. This significant advancement, published in Nature, aims to scale up to a million qubits, offering potential solutions to complex challenges such as breaking down microplastics in years rather than decades, thereby transforming the landscape of quantum computing with enhanced digital control.
Read complete interview on microsoft
Microsoft is taking steps to tighten its budget by temporarily halting hiring in its U.S. consulting division, as shared in an internal memo. The decision, first reported by CNBC, is part of the company’s broader strategy to manage expenses while prioritizing significant investments in artificial intelligence (AI).
Derek Danois, a leader in Microsoft’s consulting arm, explained that the hiring freeze includes backfilling existing roles. The team has also been asked to cut back on travel for internal meetings, opting for remote sessions, and to reduce marketing and non-essential spending by 35%.
These adjustments come as Microsoft continues to pour resources into building data centers to support its ambitious AI projects, with plans to invest $80 billion in fiscal 2025. While these changes aim to keep costs in check, Microsoft remains focused on driving innovation and supporting its global teams.
The company hasn’t yet commented on the reports, but these measures align with its efforts to balance operational efficiency and future-focused investments.
Read more on Thehindu.
