In this edition of Weekend Reading, we’ve got stories on the annual Microsoft Dynamics Convergence and SharePoint conferences, profiles on five dynamic women in honor of International Women’s Day and the buzz building up to the March 11 release of “Titanfall.”
The Microsoft Dynamics Convergence 2014 in Atlanta showcased how customers are using Dynamics, such as New Belgium Brewing Company’s external sales representatives, Beer Rangers, who brew up sales using Microsoft Dynamics AX. At Convergence, Microsoft unveiled new mobile applications as part of an update to Microsoft Dynamics and joined customers such as Delta Airlines and Lotus F1 in revealing how they are connecting with customers. As customers gather this week for the SharePoint Conference in Las Vegas and Convergence in Atlanta, they received an update on Microsoft’s enterprise social vision and road map — including three new social experiences designed to help companies work like a network.
In celebration of International Women’s Day March 8, we enjoyed profiles of five dynamic individuals from all corners of the company who are changing the world through technology. They are a software developer, a researcher, a board member, a test lead and a diversity manager who are passionate about their work. The story also covers Microsoft’s efforts to nurture future generations of women in computer science. We also saw how Skype celebrates women inspiring children in science, technology, engineering and math.
As Microsoft heads to Austin for the annual South by Southwest gathering, one of its most anticipated events is the “Titanfall” launch party on March 10. With the release of Xbox One exclusive “Titanfall,” Respawn Entertainment is tantalizing gamers with two new trailers. Will Arnett (“The Millers,” “The LEGO Movie”) loves “Titanfall,” and so do some of his gaming friends and celebs, who got a sneak peek and chance to play the game, coming March 11 to Xbox One. This year Microsoft is an official sponsor of SXSW, which combines tech, music and film into one entertaining and educational festival and conference.
In other Xbox news, Xbox One’s March system update began rolling out Wednesday. As part of the Xbox One system update, any time you search with “Xbox Bing,” you’re now going to get results from the Web, as well as from an expansive marketplace. And now, you can watch music videos using Xbox One’s Xbox Music and create a video game on Project Spark, now in global beta for Xbox One. This week’s Xbox Live Store deals– which last until Monday — include two Xbox One games, “Call of Duty: Ghosts,” and “Call of Duty: Ghosts Digital Hardened Edition.”
The worldwide availability of Skype for Outlook.com was announced Tuesday. Now you can easily connect with Skype friends right from your Outlook.com inbox, going from chat or email to a video call with one click.
We saw new and updated Windows and Windows Phone apps that can help get your financial house in order, connect with Facebook friends faster and put you into World Cup-worthy play. Tame taxes with the help of Bing Finance and other Windows and Windows Phone apps, stay on the right track with HERE Maps and find your dream abode on Zillow. In your downtime, watch favorite shows on USA Now, Telemundo Now and Syfy Now. Over in the Windows Phone Store, the App of the Week, “FIFA 14,” put you on the field with real teams and players. Facebook Messenger arrived, giving FB’ers everywhere a streamlined IM service. “Bridge Constructor,” Superpages and “Ice Road Truckers” rounded out the week’s notable mobile entries.
This week on the Microsoft Facebook page, we introduced you to Natasha Nicole, an artist and illustrator who creates a piece of art every day for her blog using Fresh Paint. Tell us your story using #ICreatedThis.
Thanks for checking out this edition of Weekend Reading. Happy first week of March and see you next week!
Posted by Athima Chansanchai
Microsoft News Center Staff