Microsoft news recap: Xbox Gaming AI team expansion, $1B data center build starts in Wisconsin, and more

2 min. read

Published on September 3, 2023

published on September 3, 2023

Readers help support Windows Report. We may get a commission if you buy through our links.

Microsoft news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!

Microsoft begins construction of $1 billion data center in Wisconsin.

Microsoft has begun construction on a $1 billion data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. The data center is expected to be completed in 2026. It is expected to be beneficial in creating jobs and supporting the local economy.

Microsoft to unbundle Teams from Microsoft 365 and Office 365 in EEA and Switzerland.

Microsoft will unbundle Teams from its Microsoft 365 and Office 365 suites in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland starting October 1, 2023. This decision follows an investigation by the European Commission, which raised concerns about unfair competition.

Customers in these regions can now purchase these suites without Teams, saving €2 per month or €24 annually. Microsoft also plans to improve interoperability and support for application developers, making it easier for competitors to utilize its functionality. Microsoft aims to strike a balance between competitors and European business interests while remaining engaged with the European Commission’s concerns.

Microsoft is looking to expand its Xbox gaming AI team.

Microsoft is delving into the realm of AI-driven gaming innovation, as indicated by a recent job listing titled “Principal Software Engineer, Gaming AI.” The listing, posted in July, seeks an experienced software engineer to explore and create groundbreaking Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) features, tools, and services within the Xbox Gaming AI team.

Microsoft is working on redesigned password management for Edge.

Microsoft is reportedly giving its Edge web browser a makeover by redesigning its password manager. This update will introduce a feature allowing users to add notes to their passwords, similar to Chrome’s functionality. While the release date is unclear, this improvement is set to enhance password management, making it easier for users to keep track of their credentials and offering a more secure and user-friendly experience.

That’s it for this week. We will be back next week with more Microsoft news.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time). For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web. Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they're looking for.