Click on the headlines to read more.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chine-heavily-underreporting-covid-deaths-says-who-551876">China ‘heavily underreporting’ Covid&nbsp;deaths, lack info for proper risk assessment, says WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/324985-untitled-design-2023-01-12t145322630.png?imwidth=1920" />

The World Health Organisation said on Wednesday that while China was now making more data on Covid-19 readily available, it is still heavily underreporting deaths caused by the disease. The world body believes that the numbers being shared are not showing the true impact of its current surge in cases. 
&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/microsoft-allows-unlimited-time-off-for-salaried-us-employees-551944">Microsoft allows unlimited time off for salaried US employees</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/325041-untitled-design-1.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. &nbsp;Microsoft said it will allow its salaried employees with noteworthy achievements to take discretionary paid time off, starting January 16.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-hospitals-reach-tentative-agreements-with-striking-nurses-in-new-york-551974">Nurses return to work at two hospitals as strikes end after deal in New York</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/325060-untitled-design-2023-01-12t182642831.png?imwidth=1920" />

The three-day strikes of thousands of nurses came to an end on Thursday as they returned to work after finalising a tentative contract agreement with two hospitals, which included pay raise and better working conditions, announced the union officials on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-easter-attacks-ex-president-to-pay-273k-as-compensation-to-victims-fund-551999">Sri Lanka Easter attacks: Ex-President to pay $273k as compensation to victims' fund</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/11/24/75772-untitled-design-5.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday (January 12) ordered former President Maithripala Sirisena to pay $273,334 (100 million Sir Lankan Rupees) as compensation to the victim fund of the 2019 Easter bombings for his negligence in preventing one of the worst terror strikes in the country despite having credible information of an imminent attack.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-politician-sorry-over-terrible-decision-of-wearing-nazi-uniform-at-his-21st-birthday-party-551982">Australian politician sorry over 'terrible decision' of wearing Nazi uniform at his 21st birthday party</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/325065-dominic-perrottet.png?imwidth=1920" />

Australian politician Dominic Perrottet apologised on Thursday (January 12) and said that he was "deeply ashamed" about wearing a Nazi uniform on his 21st birthday. After Perrottet's confession&nbsp;the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, which represents the Jewish community in the state said,&nbsp;'Nazi symbolism is not to be taken lightly and dressing as a Nazi is not a joke'&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedish-company-finds-europes-largest-rare-earth-deposit-552014">Swedish company finds Europe's largest 'rare earth' deposit</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/325090-mining.png?imwidth=1920" />

Swedish mining company LKAB said Thursday (January 12) that they have discovered Europe's largest known deposit of rare earth elements. The mining company noted that the earth elements are essential for the manufacturing of electric vehicles.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-a-corrupted-file-brought-us-aviation-to-its-knees-551929">Explained: How a corrupted file brought US aviation to its knees</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/325025-000336v8h6.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

On Wednesday, about 9,000 domestic flights across the United States were grounded, the aviation system brought to its knees, all because of a "corrupted file".&nbsp;Was it a cyber attack or a malicious attack? Here's what we know.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cough-syrups-linked-to-uzbekistan-deaths-should-not-be-used-for-kids-says-who-551885">Indian cough syrups linked to kids’ deaths in Uzbekistan should not be used, says WHO</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/324993-fls6fjzayaiyhtu.jpeg?imwidth=1920" />

The World Health Organisation on Wednesday said that the cough syrups made by the&nbsp;pharmaceutical firm Marion Biotech based in India&nbsp;should not be used for children. The recommendation comes after the syrups were&nbsp;linked to the deaths of 19 children in Uzbekistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/disappointed-afghanistan-cricket-board-calls-cas-decision-as-pathetic-consider-taking-matter-to-icc-552012">Disappointed Afghanistan Cricket Board calls CA's decision as 'pathetic', consider taking matter to ICC</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/12/325089-untitled-design-28.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

After Cricket Australia announced its decision to withdraw from the forthcoming scheduled ODI series against Afghanistan due to Taliban government's latest move to restrict women's right in country, the concerned Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) issued a statement calling CA's decision as 'pathetic'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/ss-rajamoulis-film-rrr-got-snubbed-at-directors-guild-of-america-nominations-551837">SS Rajamouli's 'RRR' fails to make the cut at Directors Guild of America nominations</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/11/324543-4.png?imwidth=1920" />

Amid all the joy, here's some sad news for SS Rajamouli and his magnum opus, 'RRR'.&nbsp;Following its historic win at the 80th Golden Globes, the Telugu drama failed to make the cut at the prestigious Director's Guild of America Awards nominations list. 
 
&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more. China ‘heavily underreporting’ Covid deaths, lack info for proper risk assessment, says WHO The World Health Organisation said on Wednesday that while China was now making more data on Covid-19 readily available, it is still heavily underreporting deaths caused by the disease.

Click on the headlines to read more. China ‘heavily underreporting’ Covid deaths, lack info for proper risk assessment, says WHO The World Health Organisation said on Wednesday that while China was now making more data on Covid-19 readily available, it is still heavily underreporting deaths caused by the disease. The world body believes that the numbers being shared are not showing the true impact of its current surge in cases. Microsoft allows unlimited time off for salaried US employees Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. Microsoft said it will allow its salaried employees with noteworthy achievements to take discretionary paid time off, starting January 16. Nurses return to work at two hospitals as strikes end after deal in New York The three-day strikes of thousands of nurses came to an end on Thursday as they returned to work after finalising a tentative contract agreement with two hospitals, which included pay raise and better working conditions, announced the union officials on Thursday. Sri Lanka Easter attacks: Ex-President to pay $273k as compensation to victims' fund Sri Lanka's Supreme Court on Thursday (January 12) ordered former President Maithripala Sirisena to pay $273,334 (100 million Sir Lankan Rupees) as compensation to the victim fund of the 2019 Easter bombings for his negligence in preventing one of the worst terror strikes in the country despite having credible information of an imminent attack. Australian politician sorry over 'terrible decision' of wearing Nazi uniform at his 21st birthday party Australian politician Dominic Perrottet apologised on Thursday (January 12) and said that he was "deeply ashamed" about wearing a Nazi uniform on his 21st birthday. After Perrottet's confession the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, which represents the Jewish community in the state said, 'Nazi symbolism is not to be taken lightly and dressing as a Nazi is not a joke' Swedish company finds Europe's largest 'rare earth' deposit Swedish mining company LKAB said Thursday (January 12) that they have discovered Europe's largest known deposit of rare earth elements. The mining company noted that the earth elements are essential for the manufacturing of electric vehicles. Explained: How a corrupted file brought US aviation to its knees On Wednesday, about 9,000 domestic flights across the United States were grounded, the aviation system brought to its knees, all because of a "corrupted file". Was it a cyber attack or a malicious attack? Here's what we know. Indian cough syrups linked to kids’ deaths in Uzbekistan should not be used, says WHO The World Health Organisation on Wednesday said that the cough syrups made by the pharmaceutical firm Marion Biotech based in India should not be used for children. The recommendation comes after the syrups were linked to the deaths of 19 children in Uzbekistan. Disappointed Afghanistan Cricket Board calls CA's decision as 'pathetic', consider taking matter to ICC After Cricket Australia announced its decision to withdraw from the forthcoming scheduled ODI series against Afghanistan due to Taliban government's latest move to restrict women's right in country, the concerned Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) issued a statement calling CA's decision as 'pathetic'. SS Rajamouli's 'RRR' fails to make the cut at Directors Guild of America nominations Amid all the joy, here's some sad news for SS Rajamouli and his magnum opus, 'RRR'. Following its historic win at the 80th Golden Globes, the Telugu drama failed to make the cut at the prestigious Director's Guild of America Awards nominations list.

Top 10 world news: WHO says China 'heavily underreporting' Covid deaths & more

Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. The world's biggest software company announced that it is doing away with its four-week vacation policy, joining Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce and LinkedIn who have similar policies underlining 'unlimited paid time off' for their employees.&nbsp;

Officially known as "discretionary time off", the policy replaces Microsoft's paid time off model with its new approach to allow employees to take time off as needed. A report in&nbsp;The Verge stated that the new policy authorising discretionary time off will be implemented starting January 16th.&nbsp;

Who will be allowed discretionary time off?

This new policy is available to only salaried Microsoft employees. Hourly workers at Microsoft won’t be offered the policy.&nbsp;

A discretionary paid time off will thus be granted to a salaried Microsoft employee for a noteworthy achievement. This also covers&nbsp;the professionals who are recognised within the organisation for contributions to Microsoft's mission, goals or objectives.&nbsp;

Why discretionary time off?

Microsoft said that how, when, and where its professionals do their jobs has changed dramatically. The move thereby is seen as saving Microsoft's administrative costs, in response to more flexible work schedules that came about in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/microsoft-set-to-invest-10-billion-in-musks-openai-551006">Microsoft set to invest $10 billion in Musk's OpenAI</a>

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"As we have transformed, modernising our vacation policy to a more flexible model was a natural next step," Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft's chief people officer, said in an internal memo, The Verge reported.&nbsp;

In 2020, Microsoft allowed a significant number of its employees to work from home permanently. It also allowed employees to work from home freely for up to 50 per cent of their working week.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/microsoft-and-isro-team-up-to-support-indian-space-tech-startups-549920">Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups</a>

Employees working remotely, however, had the option to give up their office space. Instead, the 'touchdown space' at Microsoft was made available.&nbsp;

Employees who opt for the remote work option had to give up their office space, but the touchdown space at Microsoft offices was still made available.

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. The world's biggest software company announced that it is doing away with its four-week vacation policy, joining Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce and LinkedIn who have similar policies underlining 'unlimited paid time off' for their employees.

Microsoft joined a coveted group of counted few companies in the world which is allowing its workers in the United States unlimited paid time off. The world's biggest software company announced that it is doing away with its four-week vacation policy, joining Netflix, Oracle, Salesforce and LinkedIn who have similar policies underlining 'unlimited paid time off' for their employees. Officially known as "discretionary time off", the policy replaces Microsoft's paid time off model with its new approach to allow employees to take time off as needed. A report in The Verge stated that the new policy authorising discretionary time off will be implemented starting January 16th. Who will be allowed discretionary time off? This new policy is available to only salaried Microsoft employees. Hourly workers at Microsoft won’t be offered the policy. A discretionary paid time off will thus be granted to a salaried Microsoft employee for a noteworthy achievement. This also covers the professionals who are recognised within the organisation for contributions to Microsoft's mission, goals or objectives. Why discretionary time off? Microsoft said that how, when, and where its professionals do their jobs has changed dramatically. The move thereby is seen as saving Microsoft's administrative costs, in response to more flexible work schedules that came about in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. ALSO WATCH | Microsoft set to invest $10 billion in Musk's OpenAI × "As we have transformed, modernising our vacation policy to a more flexible model was a natural next step," Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft's chief people officer, said in an internal memo, The Verge reported. In 2020, Microsoft allowed a significant number of its employees to work from home permanently. It also allowed employees to work from home freely for up to 50 per cent of their working week. ALSO READ | Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups Employees working remotely, however, had the option to give up their office space. Instead, the 'touchdown space' at Microsoft was made available. Employees who opt for the remote work option had to give up their office space, but the touchdown space at Microsoft offices was still made available. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Microsoft allows unlimited time off for salaried employees in the US

Microsoft Corp is in discussions to invest $10 billion in the company that owns ChatGPT, OpenAI, valuing the San Francisco-based firm at $29 billion, according to Reuters quoting a Semafor report.

The funding conditions stipulated that Microsoft would get 75 per cent of OpenAI's income up until the point at which OpenAI had earned back its initial investment from ChatGPT and other businesses like the image creation tool Dall-E, a Semafor report showed, according to Reuters.

Once OpenAI reached that milestone, Microsoft would own a 49 per cent share in the company, followed by 49 per cent from other investors and 2 per cent to OpenAI's nonprofit parent.

Also Read|&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/business-economy/disney-ceo-bob-iger-orders-employees-to-return-to-office-four-days-a-week-550868">Disney CEO Bob Iger orders employees to return to office four days a week</a>

However, the exact stakes wouldn't be known until Microsoft received its money back, said the report.

The latest news comes after investment from other venture firms. In recent weeks, deal documents were circulated to potential investors to close the funding round by the end of 2022, said Reuters referring to the Semafor article.

Indeed, the latest Microsoft news comes after a Wall Street Journal story showed that OpenAI was discussing selling its current stock to venture capital firms, including Thrive Capital and Founders Fund, for an estimated $29 billion valuation.

Watch|&nbsp;Apple's iPhone exports from India surpass $2.5 billion

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Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla Inc., and investor Sam Altman launched OpenAI, which released the ChatGPT chatbot for free public testing on November 30. Since then, the text-based artificial intelligence chatbot platform in November, ChatGPT, has been widely popular.

A chatbot is software created to replicate human-like dialogue in response to user input.

According to media reports, analysts are speculating whether AI chatbots will challenge Google's hegemony one day. Some Google employees reportedly wonder if they lost a chance given the company's long history of boasting about its AI competence.

Reuters reported that OpenAI did not immediately respond to the request for comment, while Microsoft declined to do so.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Microsoft Corp is in discussions to invest $10 billion in the company that owns ChatGPT, OpenAI, valuing the San Francisco-based firm at $29 billion, according to Reuters quoting a Semafor report.

Microsoft Corp is in discussions to invest $10 billion in the company that owns ChatGPT, OpenAI, valuing the San Francisco-based firm at $29 billion, according to Reuters quoting a Semafor report. The funding conditions stipulated that Microsoft would get 75 per cent of OpenAI's income up until the point at which OpenAI had earned back its initial investment from ChatGPT and other businesses like the image creation tool Dall-E, a Semafor report showed, according to Reuters. Once OpenAI reached that milestone, Microsoft would own a 49 per cent share in the company, followed by 49 per cent from other investors and 2 per cent to OpenAI's nonprofit parent. Also Read| Disney CEO Bob Iger orders employees to return to office four days a week However, the exact stakes wouldn't be known until Microsoft received its money back, said the report. The latest news comes after investment from other venture firms. In recent weeks, deal documents were circulated to potential investors to close the funding round by the end of 2022, said Reuters referring to the Semafor article. Indeed, the latest Microsoft news comes after a Wall Street Journal story showed that OpenAI was discussing selling its current stock to venture capital firms, including Thrive Capital and Founders Fund, for an estimated $29 billion valuation. Watch| Apple's iPhone exports from India surpass $2.5 billion Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla Inc., and investor Sam Altman launched OpenAI, which released the ChatGPT chatbot for free public testing on November 30. Since then, the text-based artificial intelligence chatbot platform in November, ChatGPT, has been widely popular. A chatbot is software created to replicate human-like dialogue in response to user input. According to media reports, analysts are speculating whether AI chatbots will challenge Google's hegemony one day. Some Google employees reportedly wonder if they lost a chance given the company's long history of boasting about its AI competence. Reuters reported that OpenAI did not immediately respond to the request for comment, while Microsoft declined to do so. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Microsoft set to invest $10 billion in OpenAI, valuing the ChatGPT software firm at $29 billion: Report

According to the reports, Microsoft Corp is in discussions to invest $10 billion in the company that owns ChatGPT, OpenAI, valuing the San Francisco-based firm at $29 billion.

Microsoft set to invest $10 billion in Musk's OpenAI

Microsoft India and the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) to support Indian space sector start-ups. This comes at a time when there are more than 110 space sector start-ups that are formally registered with the Government-run IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre). After the Indian Government opened up the space sector to private firms and permitted them the carry out end-to-end space activities, there has been significant growth in Indian space startups.&nbsp;

Anant Maheshwari, President of Microsoft India, said, "Space-tech startups in India are playing a significant role in advancing the country’s space capabilities with the power of technology. We are pleased to collaborate with ISRO to accelerate this transformation of what’s possible in space. Through our technology tools, platforms and mentorship opportunities, we are deeply committed to empowering space-tech startups in the country to drive cutting edge innovation and accelerate scientific discovery."

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-third-lunar-mission-chandrayaan-3-almost-ready-launch-in-june-july-isro-chairman-549705">&nbsp;India's third Lunar mission Chandrayaan-3 almost ready, launch in June-July: ISRO Chairman</a>

According to the tech giant, through Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, space-tech startup founders in India will have free access to the tech tools, and resources they need to build and run their businesses. This includes technical support to build and scale on Azure, best-in-class developer and productivity tools including GitHub Enterprise, Visual Studio Enterprise, and Microsoft 365, and access to smart analytics with Power BI and Dynamics 365.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sivakumar-nadesan-awarded-2023-pravasi-bharatiya-samman-award-for-upliftment-of-indian-origin-tamils-in-lanka-549557">Sivakumar Nadesan awarded 2023 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award for upliftment of Indian-origin Tamils in Lanka</a>

“ISRO’s collaboration with Microsoft will greatly benefit space tech startups in their analysis and processing of vast amounts of satellite data for various applications, using cutting-edge methods like AI, Machine Learning and Deep Learning. The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub is a useful platform for bringing together startups and providers of technology solutions to support the national space technology ecosystem. We are pleased to work together to assist and support entrepreneurs, to in turn benefit the Indian economy as a whole" Dr S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO said.&nbsp;

It was also added that Microsoft and ISRO will also jointly organise knowledge-sharing and thought leadership sessions for the startups with space industry experts. Further, the collaboration will support founders with go-to-market strategies, technical support and opportunities to sell their solutions via Microsoft channels and the marketplace.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Microsoft India and the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) to support Indian space sector start-ups. This comes at a time when there are more than 110 space sector start-ups that are formally registered with the Government-run IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre).

Microsoft India and the Indian Space Research Organization(ISRO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) to support Indian space sector start-ups. This comes at a time when there are more than 110 space sector start-ups that are formally registered with the Government-run IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre). After the Indian Government opened up the space sector to private firms and permitted them the carry out end-to-end space activities, there has been significant growth in Indian space startups. Anant Maheshwari, President of Microsoft India, said, "Space-tech startups in India are playing a significant role in advancing the country’s space capabilities with the power of technology. We are pleased to collaborate with ISRO to accelerate this transformation of what’s possible in space. Through our technology tools, platforms and mentorship opportunities, we are deeply committed to empowering space-tech startups in the country to drive cutting edge innovation and accelerate scientific discovery." Also read | India's third Lunar mission Chandrayaan-3 almost ready, launch in June-July: ISRO Chairman According to the tech giant, through Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, space-tech startup founders in India will have free access to the tech tools, and resources they need to build and run their businesses. This includes technical support to build and scale on Azure, best-in-class developer and productivity tools including GitHub Enterprise, Visual Studio Enterprise, and Microsoft 365, and access to smart analytics with Power BI and Dynamics 365. Also read | Sivakumar Nadesan awarded 2023 Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award for upliftment of Indian-origin Tamils in Lanka “ISRO’s collaboration with Microsoft will greatly benefit space tech startups in their analysis and processing of vast amounts of satellite data for various applications, using cutting-edge methods like AI, Machine Learning and Deep Learning. The Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub is a useful platform for bringing together startups and providers of technology solutions to support the national space technology ecosystem. We are pleased to work together to assist and support entrepreneurs, to in turn benefit the Indian economy as a whole" Dr S Somanath, Chairman, ISRO said. It was also added that Microsoft and ISRO will also jointly organise knowledge-sharing and thought leadership sessions for the startups with space industry experts. Further, the collaboration will support founders with go-to-market strategies, technical support and opportunities to sell their solutions via Microsoft channels and the marketplace. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Microsoft and ISRO team up to support Indian space-tech startups

Microsoft is planning to launch an AI-powered version of its search engine Bing, said a report. The tech giant is going to use ChatGPT, the OpenAI-launched chatbot, The Information reported on Tuesday.

Microsoft can reportedly launch the latest feature before the end of March.&nbsp;

Last year, Microsoft said that it was planning to integrate image-generation software from OpenAI, known as DALL-E 2, into Bing.

There was no immediate reaction&nbsp;from both, OpenAI and Microsoft.

The San Francisco-based artificial intelligence company OpenAI was backed by Microsoft with $1 billion in funding in 2019. The two had formed a multi-year partnership to develop artificial intelligence supercomputing technologies on Microsoft's Azure cloud computing service.

OpenAI made its creation ChatGPT chatbot available for free public testing on Nov. 30. The chatbot is a software application designed to mimic human-like conversation based on user prompts and can respond to a large range of questions while imitating human speaking styles.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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&nbsp;

Microsoft is planning to launch an AI-powered version of its search engine Bing, said a report. The tech giant is going to use ChatGPT, the OpenAI-launched chatbot, The Information reported on Tuesday.

Microsoft is planning to launch an AI-powered version of its search engine Bing, said a report. The tech giant is going to use ChatGPT, the OpenAI-launched chatbot, The Information reported on Tuesday. Microsoft can reportedly launch the latest feature before the end of March. Last year, Microsoft said that it was planning to integrate image-generation software from OpenAI, known as DALL-E 2, into Bing. There was no immediate reaction from both, OpenAI and Microsoft. The San Francisco-based artificial intelligence company OpenAI was backed by Microsoft with $1 billion in funding in 2019. The two had formed a multi-year partnership to develop artificial intelligence supercomputing technologies on Microsoft's Azure cloud computing service. OpenAI made its creation ChatGPT chatbot available for free public testing on Nov. 30. The chatbot is a software application designed to mimic human-like conversation based on user prompts and can respond to a large range of questions while imitating human speaking styles. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Microsoft developing version of Bing powered by AI: Report

The French privacy watchdog said on Thursday (December 22) that it had fined US tech giant Microsoft USD 64 million for foisting advertising cookies on users. This is the largest fine imposed in 2022.

National Commission for Technology and Freedoms (CNIL) said Microsoft's search engine Bing had not set up a system allowing users to refuse cookies as simply as accepting them.

It also "observed that there was no button allowing to refuse the deposit of cookies as easily as accepting it."

The CNIL said the fine was justified in part because of the profits the company made from advertising profits indirectly generated from the data collected via cookies -- tiny data files that track online browsing.

Bing offered a button for the user to immediately accept all cookies, but two clicks were need to refuse them, it said.

The company has been given three months to rectify the issue, with a potential further penalty of 60,000 euros per day overdue.

The fine was issued to Microsoft Ireland, where the company has its European base.

In a statement Microsoft said that it had "introduced key changes to our cookie practices even before this investigation started."

(With inputs from agencies)

The French privacy watchdog said on Thursday (December 22) that it had fined US tech giant Microsoft USD 64 million for foisting advertising cookies on users. This is the largest fine imposed in 2022.

The French privacy watchdog said on Thursday (December 22) that it had fined US tech giant Microsoft USD 64 million for foisting advertising cookies on users. This is the largest fine imposed in 2022. National Commission for Technology and Freedoms (CNIL) said Microsoft's search engine Bing had not set up a system allowing users to refuse cookies as simply as accepting them. It also "observed that there was no button allowing to refuse the deposit of cookies as easily as accepting it." The CNIL said the fine was justified in part because of the profits the company made from advertising profits indirectly generated from the data collected via cookies -- tiny data files that track online browsing. Bing offered a button for the user to immediately accept all cookies, but two clicks were need to refuse them, it said. The company has been given three months to rectify the issue, with a potential further penalty of 60,000 euros per day overdue. The fine was issued to Microsoft Ireland, where the company has its European base. In a statement Microsoft said that it had "introduced key changes to our cookie practices even before this investigation started." (With inputs from agencies)

France slaps $64 million fine on Microsoft over advertising cookies

The Nasdaq index tumbled nearly 3% on Thursday after a fresh batch of data showing a resilient economy fueled worries that the Federal Reserve would stick to its aggressive tightening path; with Micron's&nbsp;glum forecast&nbsp;adding to a downbeat mood.

Apple Inc, Microsoft Corp&nbsp;and Amazon.com Inc&nbsp;fell more than 3% each, as two-year Treasury yields regained steam on prolonged rate hike expectations.

Tesla Inc&nbsp;plunged 6.5% after the electric-vehicle maker doubled its&nbsp;discount offering&nbsp;on models in the U.S. this month, amid concerns over softening demand.

Losses in rate-sensitive growth stocks saw technology&nbsp;and consumer discretionary sectors lead losses among the 11 major S&amp;P 500&nbsp;sub-indexes.

The&nbsp;final estimate&nbsp;of the third-quarter U.S. gross domestic product revealed the economy grew at a 3.2% annualized rate, above the previous estimate of 2.9%.

Meanwhile, a Labor Department report showed the number of Americans filing for state unemployment benefits increased to 216,000 last week, much below economists' estimate of 222,000, indicating a still-tight labour market.

"The GDP data beat a lot of expectations. There are concerns that the economy is not giving up too easily and it's putting up a fight that will likely require the Fed to remain hawkish and keep interest rates higher for longer," Sam Stovall, chief investment strategist at CFRA Research in New York, said.

The Philadelphia SE Semiconductor index&nbsp;was also set for its worst single-day performance in two months as shares of Micron Technology Inc, Nvidia Corp, Qualcomm Inc&nbsp;and Advanced Micro Devices Inc&nbsp;fell between 4.4% and 7.4%.

Fears of a recession following the U.S. central bank's prolonged interest rate hikes have weighed heavily on equities this year, with the benchmark S&amp;P 500&nbsp;set for annual declines of 20%, its worst such performance since the 2008 financial crisis.

Bets for a 25-basis point hike to 4.5%-4.75% in February by the Fed remained largely unchanged at 71.4% following the data on Thursday, although expectations for the terminal rate inched up to 4.89% by May 2023.

At 11:44 a.m. ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;was down 500.33 points, or 1.50%, at 32,876.15, the S&amp;P 500&nbsp;was down 76.56 points, or 1.97%, at 3,801.88, and the Nasdaq Composite&nbsp;was down 303.39 points, or 2.83%, at 10,405.98.

CarMax Inc&nbsp;slid 7.5% to the bottom of the S&amp;P 500 after the used-vehicles retailer&nbsp;paused share buybacks&nbsp;following an 86% plunge in quarterly profit.

AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc&nbsp;slumped 13.6% after the world's largest cinema chain said it would&nbsp;raise $110 million&nbsp;through a preferred stock sale.

Declining issues outnumbered advancers for a 5.42-to-1 ratio on the NYSE and a 2.86-to-1 ratio on the Nasdaq.

The S&amp;P index recorded one new 52-week high and 15 new lows, while the Nasdaq recorded 57 new highs and 303 new lows.

The Nasdaq index tumbled nearly 3% on Thursday after a fresh batch of data showing a resilient economy fueled worries that the Federal Reserve would stick to its aggressive tightening path; with Micron's glum forecast adding to a downbeat mood.

The Nasdaq index tumbled nearly 3% on Thursday after a fresh batch of data showing a resilient economy fueled worries that the Federal Reserve would stick to its aggressive tightening path; with Micron's glum forecast adding to a downbeat mood. Apple Inc, Microsoft Corp and Amazon.com Inc fell more than 3% each, as two-year Treasury yields regained steam on prolonged rate hike expectations. Tesla Inc plunged 6.5% after the electric-vehicle maker doubled its discount offering on models in the U.S. this month, amid concerns over softening demand. Losses in rate-sensitive growth stocks saw technology and consumer discretionary sectors lead losses among the 11 major S&P 500 sub-indexes. The final estimate of the third-quarter U.S. gross domestic product revealed the economy grew at a 3.2% annualized rate, above the previous estimate of 2.9%. Meanwhile, a Labor Department report showed the number of Americans filing for state unemployment benefits increased to 216,000 last week, much below economists' estimate of 222,000, indicating a still-tight labour market. "The GDP data beat a lot of expectations. There are concerns that the economy is not giving up too easily and it's putting up a fight that will likely require the Fed to remain hawkish and keep interest rates higher for longer," Sam Stovall, chief investment strategist at CFRA Research in New York, said. The Philadelphia SE Semiconductor index was also set for its worst single-day performance in two months as shares of Micron Technology Inc, Nvidia Corp, Qualcomm Inc and Advanced Micro Devices Inc fell between 4.4% and 7.4%. Fears of a recession following the U.S. central bank's prolonged interest rate hikes have weighed heavily on equities this year, with the benchmark S&P 500 set for annual declines of 20%, its worst such performance since the 2008 financial crisis. Bets for a 25-basis point hike to 4.5%-4.75% in February by the Fed remained largely unchanged at 71.4% following the data on Thursday, although expectations for the terminal rate inched up to 4.89% by May 2023. At 11:44 a.m. ET, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 500.33 points, or 1.50%, at 32,876.15, the S&P 500 was down 76.56 points, or 1.97%, at 3,801.88, and the Nasdaq Composite was down 303.39 points, or 2.83%, at 10,405.98. CarMax Inc slid 7.5% to the bottom of the S&P 500 after the used-vehicles retailer paused share buybacks following an 86% plunge in quarterly profit. AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc slumped 13.6% after the world's largest cinema chain said it would raise $110 million through a preferred stock sale. Declining issues outnumbered advancers for a 5.42-to-1 ratio on the NYSE and a 2.86-to-1 ratio on the Nasdaq. The S&P index recorded one new 52-week high and 15 new lows, while the Nasdaq recorded 57 new highs and 303 new lows.

Wall Street tumbles on rate, recession worries, bleak chipmaker outlook

In yet another roadblock for Microsoft's planned acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc., a group of video gamers challenged the acquisition in a federal antitrust lawsuit in a San Francisco court. The petitioners say that Microsoft's acquisition of Call of Duty-maker will unlawfully squeeze the competition in the video game industry.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world-business-watch-ftc-seeks-to-block-microsoft-activision-deal-541464">World Business Watch | FTC seeks to block Microsoft-Activision deal</a>

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The lawsuit, which comes less than two weeks after the acquisition was blocked by Federal Trade Commission (FTC), was reportedly filed on behalf of 10 video game players in California, New Mexico and New Jersey.

Microsoft-Activision deal: What is the worry of gamers?

The gamers' suit claims that the merger violates Clayton Antitrust Act -- a law that seeks to prevent anticompetitive practices in the market -- by reducing competition in the gaming sector and by extension harming the public.&nbsp; 
 
The gamers have sought a court order prohibiting the companies from consummating the merger, nullifying the break-up fee and paying their legal costs.

Microsoft-Activision deal:&nbsp;What is the FTC saying?

The FTC has also sought to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a 'leading independent game studio'.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-competition-watchdog-seeks-to-stop-microsoft-activision-gaming-deal-541422">US competition watchdog seeks to stop Microsoft-Activision mega gaming deal</a>

"Microsoft has already shown that it can and will withhold content from its gaming rivals," Holly Vedova, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition said in an official statement. "We seek to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a leading independent game studio and using it to harm competition in multiple dynamic and fast-growing gaming market."

What is Microsoft's stance at present?

Microsoft has defended the deal, saying in a statement that it "will expand competition and create more opportunities for gamers and game developers."&nbsp;

Following the FTC lawsuit, Microsoft President Brad Smith said, "We have complete confidence in our case and welcome the opportunity to present our case in court."

The takeover, announced in January, also faces antitrust scrutiny in the European Union.

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In yet another roadblock for Microsoft's planned acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc., a group of video gamers challenged the acquisition in a federal antitrust lawsuit in a San Francisco court.

In yet another roadblock for Microsoft's planned acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc., a group of video gamers challenged the acquisition in a federal antitrust lawsuit in a San Francisco court. The petitioners say that Microsoft's acquisition of Call of Duty-maker will unlawfully squeeze the competition in the video game industry. WATCH | World Business Watch | FTC seeks to block Microsoft-Activision deal × The lawsuit, which comes less than two weeks after the acquisition was blocked by Federal Trade Commission (FTC), was reportedly filed on behalf of 10 video game players in California, New Mexico and New Jersey. Microsoft-Activision deal: What is the worry of gamers? The gamers' suit claims that the merger violates Clayton Antitrust Act -- a law that seeks to prevent anticompetitive practices in the market -- by reducing competition in the gaming sector and by extension harming the public. The gamers have sought a court order prohibiting the companies from consummating the merger, nullifying the break-up fee and paying their legal costs. Microsoft-Activision deal: What is the FTC saying? The FTC has also sought to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a 'leading independent game studio'. ALSO READ | US competition watchdog seeks to stop Microsoft-Activision mega gaming deal "Microsoft has already shown that it can and will withhold content from its gaming rivals," Holly Vedova, Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition said in an official statement. "We seek to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a leading independent game studio and using it to harm competition in multiple dynamic and fast-growing gaming market." What is Microsoft's stance at present? Microsoft has defended the deal, saying in a statement that it "will expand competition and create more opportunities for gamers and game developers." Following the FTC lawsuit, Microsoft President Brad Smith said, "We have complete confidence in our case and welcome the opportunity to present our case in court." The takeover, announced in January, also faces antitrust scrutiny in the European Union. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Microsoft-Activision Blizzard deal: Group of video gamers file antitrust lawsuit

Microsoft was hit in US court with a private consumer lawsuit claiming the technology company's $69 billion bid to purchase "Call of Duty" maker Activision Blizzard Inc will unlawfully squelch competition in the video game industry.

World Business Watch: Video gamers sue Microsoft in US court to stop Activision takeover

The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free. 
The world of online mapping is dominated by Alphabet-owned Google which provides its services to other platforms or companies and improves its other offerings like online advertising, using navigation and location capabilities.

Creating ripples in the Google-dominated market, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, TomTom and Meta have introduced “Overture Maps Foundation”, which is aimed at providing comprehensive mapping data freely to anyone who may need it for use, said non-profit Linux Foundation, in a press release.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-says-it-does-not-change-search-results-amid-hong-kong-anthem-row-543340">Google says it does not change search results amid Hong Kong anthem row</a>

"Mapping the physical environment and every community in the world, even as they grow and change, is a massively complex challenge that no one organization can manage," Linux Foundation executive director Jim Zemlin said. "Industry needs to come together to do this for the benefit of all,” he added.

The team of technological companies announced to work on Overture, did not include Google. However, it added that its goal is to increase membership for increasing the work’s progress. By mid-2023, the group of tech firms are expected to release their first mapping datasets.

"Immersive experiences, which understand and blend into your physical environment, are critical to the embodied internet of the future," said Erik Solem, engineering director of Maps at Meta Jan, in the press release.

WATCH|&nbsp;WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022

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"By delivering interoperable open map data, Overture provides the foundation for an open metaverse built by creators, developers, and businesses alike,” he added.

The Linux Foundation said that map data is used in applications for navigation, search, autonomous driving, games, logistics and more. The Overture map data will be provided as an open source, which will allow developers to not only use its data but also to build on it, said the Linux Foundation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free.

The technological competitors of Google on Thursday announced a project which will be aimed at making data sets required for building map features available for free. The world of online mapping is dominated by Alphabet-owned Google which provides its services to other platforms or companies and improves its other offerings like online advertising, using navigation and location capabilities. Creating ripples in the Google-dominated market, Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, TomTom and Meta have introduced “Overture Maps Foundation”, which is aimed at providing comprehensive mapping data freely to anyone who may need it for use, said non-profit Linux Foundation, in a press release. ALSO READ| Google says it does not change search results amid Hong Kong anthem row "Mapping the physical environment and every community in the world, even as they grow and change, is a massively complex challenge that no one organization can manage," Linux Foundation executive director Jim Zemlin said. "Industry needs to come together to do this for the benefit of all,” he added. The team of technological companies announced to work on Overture, did not include Google. However, it added that its goal is to increase membership for increasing the work’s progress. By mid-2023, the group of tech firms are expected to release their first mapping datasets. "Immersive experiences, which understand and blend into your physical environment, are critical to the embodied internet of the future," said Erik Solem, engineering director of Maps at Meta Jan, in the press release. WATCH| WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022 "By delivering interoperable open map data, Overture provides the foundation for an open metaverse built by creators, developers, and businesses alike,” he added. The Linux Foundation said that map data is used in applications for navigation, search, autonomous driving, games, logistics and more. The Overture map data will be provided as an open source, which will allow developers to not only use its data but also to build on it, said the Linux Foundation. (With inputs from agencies)

Google’s rival tech firms join hands to make comprehensive mapping data

Australian regulator e-Safety Commissioner held Microsoft Corp and Apple Inc responsible for not taking appropriate measures to regulate child exploitation content available on their platform.&nbsp;The Internet Safety watchdog issued a report after it used new powers to get information about the methods being used by the tech giants.

On Thursday, the e-Safety Commissioner said that after legal demands were sent to some of the largest internet firms in the world requesting information, the responses received showed that proactive screening was not done by Apple and Microsoft for child abuse material in OneDrive and iCloud, which are their storage services.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-to-allow-third-party-app-stores-in-response-to-new-eu-laws-542840">Apple to allow third-party app stores in response to new EU laws</a>

In the information received, it was confirmed that no technology was used by the two firms to detect child sexual abuse’s live-streaming on video services Microsoft Teams and Skype, which fall under the ambit of Microsoft, as well as Apple’s FaceTime, the report published by the commissioner stated.

A spokesperson from Microsoft talked about the commitment of the company to combat the proliferation of abusive material but "as threats to children's safety continue to evolve and bad actors become more sophisticated in their tactics, we continue to challenge ourselves to adapt our response".

As per the commissioner, the information confirms the lack of implementation of child protection measures by the biggest tech firms and increases public pressure on them to be more vigilant.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Information was also sought from Meta Platforms Inc, which is the owner of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, and from Snap Inc, owner of Snapchat.

In a statement, Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said that the overall responses were "alarming" and expressed her concern about "clearly inadequate and inconsistent use of widely available technology to detect child abuse material and grooming.”

WATCH |&nbsp;Apple to lose 6 million iPhone Pros amid China Covid protest

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Microsoft and Apple "do not even attempt to proactively detect previously confirmed child abuse material" on their devices used for storage, although law enforcement agencies use a Microsoft-developed detection product.

Inman Grant said that an announcement recently made by Apple, stating that it won’t be scanning accounts of iCloud for child abuse, was "a major step backwards from their responsibilities to help keep children safe". &nbsp;

Both firms’ failure in detecting live-streamed abuse amounted to "some of the biggest and richest technology companies in the world turning a blind eye and failing to take appropriate steps to protect the most vulnerable from the most predatory," she said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Australian regulator e-Safety Commissioner held Microsoft Corp and Apple Inc responsible for not taking appropriate measures to regulate child exploitation content available on their platform.

Australian regulator e-Safety Commissioner held Microsoft Corp and Apple Inc responsible for not taking appropriate measures to regulate child exploitation content available on their platform. The Internet Safety watchdog issued a report after it used new powers to get information about the methods being used by the tech giants. On Thursday, the e-Safety Commissioner said that after legal demands were sent to some of the largest internet firms in the world requesting information, the responses received showed that proactive screening was not done by Apple and Microsoft for child abuse material in OneDrive and iCloud, which are their storage services. ALSO READ | Apple to allow third-party app stores in response to new EU laws In the information received, it was confirmed that no technology was used by the two firms to detect child sexual abuse’s live-streaming on video services Microsoft Teams and Skype, which fall under the ambit of Microsoft, as well as Apple’s FaceTime, the report published by the commissioner stated. A spokesperson from Microsoft talked about the commitment of the company to combat the proliferation of abusive material but "as threats to children's safety continue to evolve and bad actors become more sophisticated in their tactics, we continue to challenge ourselves to adapt our response". As per the commissioner, the information confirms the lack of implementation of child protection measures by the biggest tech firms and increases public pressure on them to be more vigilant. Information was also sought from Meta Platforms Inc, which is the owner of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp, and from Snap Inc, owner of Snapchat. In a statement, Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said that the overall responses were "alarming" and expressed her concern about "clearly inadequate and inconsistent use of widely available technology to detect child abuse material and grooming.” WATCH | Apple to lose 6 million iPhone Pros amid China Covid protest Microsoft and Apple "do not even attempt to proactively detect previously confirmed child abuse material" on their devices used for storage, although law enforcement agencies use a Microsoft-developed detection product. Inman Grant said that an announcement recently made by Apple, stating that it won’t be scanning accounts of iCloud for child abuse, was "a major step backwards from their responsibilities to help keep children safe". Both firms’ failure in detecting live-streamed abuse amounted to "some of the biggest and richest technology companies in the world turning a blind eye and failing to take appropriate steps to protect the most vulnerable from the most predatory," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia accuses Apple, Microsoft of not taking measures to keep out child exploitation content

As part of a 10-year business contract to move the London Stock Exchange Group's data infrastructure into the cloud, Microsoft will purchase a four per cent equity stake in the exchange operator as announced on Monday. As a requirement of the agreement, LSEG has committed to spending a minimum of $2.8 billion with Microsoft on cloud-related services throughout the partnership's duration.

The digital migration of LSEG's technological infrastructure and Refinitiv platforms onto the Microsoft Cloud, according to Microsoft, will constitute the cornerstone of the relationship.

“The initial focus will be on delivering interoperability between LSEG Workspace and Microsoft Teams, Excel and PowerPoint with other Microsoft applications and a new version of LSEG’s Workspace,” the U.S. company said. LSEG shares were up four&nbsp;per cent&nbsp;in early trade.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-chrome-introduces-password-less-authentication-heres-how-it-works-542134">Google Chrome introduces passwordless authentication. Here's how it works</a>

Refinitiv was acquired by LSEG for $27 billion from a Blackstone and Thomson Reuters consortium, making the exchange the second-largest provider of financial data behind Bloomberg LP.

Since the conclusion of its acquisition of Refinitiv in January 2021, LSEG has made "excellent progress" on its programme for the delivery of its cloud-based data platform, according to a statement.

The exchange operator announced that Microsoft will purchase LSEG shares from the Blackstone/Thomson Reuters Consortium.

Following the Refinitiv transaction, Thomson Reuters, which owns Reuters News, has a tiny ownership interest in LSEG.

The closing of Microsoft's acquisition is anticipated for the first quarter of 2023.

(With inputs from agencies)

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As part of a 10-year business contract to move the London Stock Exchange Group's data infrastructure into the cloud, Microsoft will purchase a four per cent equity stake in the exchange operator as announced on Monday.

As part of a 10-year business contract to move the London Stock Exchange Group's data infrastructure into the cloud, Microsoft will purchase a four per cent equity stake in the exchange operator as announced on Monday. As a requirement of the agreement, LSEG has committed to spending a minimum of $2.8 billion with Microsoft on cloud-related services throughout the partnership's duration. The digital migration of LSEG's technological infrastructure and Refinitiv platforms onto the Microsoft Cloud, according to Microsoft, will constitute the cornerstone of the relationship. “The initial focus will be on delivering interoperability between LSEG Workspace and Microsoft Teams, Excel and PowerPoint with other Microsoft applications and a new version of LSEG’s Workspace,” the U.S. company said. LSEG shares were up four per cent in early trade. Also read | Google Chrome introduces passwordless authentication. Here's how it works Refinitiv was acquired by LSEG for $27 billion from a Blackstone and Thomson Reuters consortium, making the exchange the second-largest provider of financial data behind Bloomberg LP. Since the conclusion of its acquisition of Refinitiv in January 2021, LSEG has made "excellent progress" on its programme for the delivery of its cloud-based data platform, according to a statement. The exchange operator announced that Microsoft will purchase LSEG shares from the Blackstone/Thomson Reuters Consortium. Following the Refinitiv transaction, Thomson Reuters, which owns Reuters News, has a tiny ownership interest in LSEG. The closing of Microsoft's acquisition is anticipated for the first quarter of 2023. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Microsoft plans to buy four per cent stake in London Stock Exchange

US software giant Microsoft will buy a four-percent stake in the London Stock Exchange Group under a new IT services tie-up. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Microsoft to acquire four-percent stake in London Stock Exchange

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on Thursday (December 8) that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision. This is the biggest ever deal in the gaming industy. The FTC has filed the complaint over concerns that the deal would thwart competition.

Microsoft, the maker of gaming console Xbox had announced in January 2022 that it was buying Activision for USD 68.7 billion.

Microsoft President Brad Smith said they would fight the FTC. "While we believed in giving peace a chance, we have complete confidence in our case and welcome the opportunity to present our case in court," he said.

FTC said that Microsoft has a record of buying major gaming content and then using it to suppress competition.

"Microsoft has already shown that it can and will withhold content from its gaming rivals," said Holly Vedova, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition. "Today we seek to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a leading independent game studio and using it to harm competition in multiple dynamic and fast-growing gaming markets."

Shares in Microsoft and Activision both fell on news of the FTC complaint. Shares in Activision were down 2.3%, or $1.78 to $74.16, while Microsoft was down from earlier highs but still up 1% for the day to $246.78.

(With inputs from agencies)

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&nbsp;

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on Thursday (December 8) that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision.

Federal Trade Commission (FTC) in the US filed a complaint on Thursday (December 8) that was aimed at blocking Microsoft's USD 69 billion bid to buy 'Call of Duty' maker gaming giant Activision. This is the biggest ever deal in the gaming industy. The FTC has filed the complaint over concerns that the deal would thwart competition. Microsoft, the maker of gaming console Xbox had announced in January 2022 that it was buying Activision for USD 68.7 billion. Microsoft President Brad Smith said they would fight the FTC. "While we believed in giving peace a chance, we have complete confidence in our case and welcome the opportunity to present our case in court," he said. FTC said that Microsoft has a record of buying major gaming content and then using it to suppress competition. "Microsoft has already shown that it can and will withhold content from its gaming rivals," said Holly Vedova, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Competition. "Today we seek to stop Microsoft from gaining control over a leading independent game studio and using it to harm competition in multiple dynamic and fast-growing gaming markets." Shares in Microsoft and Activision both fell on news of the FTC complaint. Shares in Activision were down 2.3%, or $1.78 to $74.16, while Microsoft was down from earlier highs but still up 1% for the day to $246.78. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US competition watchdog seeks to stop Microsoft-Activision mega gaming deal

The Pentagon said on Wednesday (December 7) that it has awarded cloud computing contracts worth USD 9 billion to Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Oracle. Previous such deal has been scrapped due to dispute between two of these firms.

The Joint Warfighting Cloud Capability (JWCC) is a "multiple-award contract vehicle that will provide the DoD the opportunity to acquire commercial cloud capabilities and services directly from the commercial Cloud Service Providers," the Pentagon said in a statement.

Defense Department spokesperson Commander Jessica McNulty told AFP that JWCC is "composed of four contracts with a shared ceiling of $9 billion."&nbsp;

Pentagon had scrapped a USD 10 billion Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI) cloud computing contract, thus sidestepping bitter dispute between Amazon and Microsoft.

The Defense Department said the contract was canceled because it no longer met current needs, and that it would start a process for a new "multi-cloud/multi-vendor" computing contract.

Microsoft had won the previous contract in 2019. This had led to challenge from Amazon with allegations that company was shut out of the deal because of what it called Trump's vendetta against the company and its chief executive Jeff Bezos.&nbsp;

Amazon was considered front runner for JEDI considering Amazon Wed Services dominates cloud computing arena. The company already supplies classified servers for government agencies like the CIA.

Officials said at the time that instead of going forward with the deal in the face of litigation, the government would start over with the aim of getting the most up-to-date technology.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Pentagon said on Wednesday (December 7) that it has awarded cloud computing contracts worth USD 9 billion to Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Oracle. Previous such deal has been scrapped due to dispute between two of these firms.

The Pentagon said on Wednesday (December 7) that it has awarded cloud computing contracts worth USD 9 billion to Amazon, Google, Microsoft and Oracle. Previous such deal has been scrapped due to dispute between two of these firms. The Joint Warfighting Cloud Capability (JWCC) is a "multiple-award contract vehicle that will provide the DoD the opportunity to acquire commercial cloud capabilities and services directly from the commercial Cloud Service Providers," the Pentagon said in a statement. Defense Department spokesperson Commander Jessica McNulty told AFP that JWCC is "composed of four contracts with a shared ceiling of $9 billion." Pentagon had scrapped a USD 10 billion Joint Enterprise Defense Infrastructure (JEDI) cloud computing contract, thus sidestepping bitter dispute between Amazon and Microsoft. The Defense Department said the contract was canceled because it no longer met current needs, and that it would start a process for a new "multi-cloud/multi-vendor" computing contract. Microsoft had won the previous contract in 2019. This had led to challenge from Amazon with allegations that company was shut out of the deal because of what it called Trump's vendetta against the company and its chief executive Jeff Bezos. Amazon was considered front runner for JEDI considering Amazon Wed Services dominates cloud computing arena. The company already supplies classified servers for government agencies like the CIA. Officials said at the time that instead of going forward with the deal in the face of litigation, the government would start over with the aim of getting the most up-to-date technology. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pentagon awards $9 billion cloud computing contracts to four tech firms

Call of Duty gained a fresh lease of life on Wednesday after Microsoft&nbsp;entered into a 10-year commitment to bring the gaming title&nbsp;to Nintendo platforms, the chief executive officer of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, said in a post on Twitter on Wednesday. The development will bring the popular gaming title from Activision Blizzard to Nintento game consoles.

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I'm also pleased to confirm that Microsoft has committed to continue to offer Call of Duty on <a href="https://twitter.com/Steam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Steam</a> simultaneously to Xbox after we have closed the merger with Activision Blizzard King. <a href="https://twitter.com/ATVI_AB?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ATVI_AB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/valvesoftware?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ValveSoftware</a>
— Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) <a href="https://twitter.com/XboxP3/status/1600342467727224832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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The announcement comes after Microsoft’s planned $69 billion acquisition of the “Call of Duty” maker raised concern among regulators that the deal could stifle competition, with rival Sony Group Corp criticising the deal and even calling for a regulatory veto.

WATCH -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-uk-watchdog-pauses-microsofts-acquisition-of-activision-516596">Gravitas: UK watchdog pauses Microsoft's acquisition of Activision</a>

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Microsoft President Brad Smith tweeted: "Our acquisition will bring Call of Duty to more gamers and more platforms than ever before … Any day @Sony wants to sit down and talk, we’ll be happy to hammer out a 10-year deal for PlayStation as well."

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Our acquisition will bring Call of Duty to more gamers and more platforms than ever before. That's good for competition and good for consumers. Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/Nintendo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Nintendo</a>. Any day <a href="https://twitter.com/Sony?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sony</a> wants to sit down and talk, we'll be happy to hammer out a 10-year deal for PlayStation as well. <a href="https://t.co/m1IQxdeo6n">https://t.co/m1IQxdeo6n</a>
— Brad Smith (@BradSmi) <a href="https://twitter.com/BradSmi/status/1600346773914259458?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this year, Sony’s gaming chief Jim Ryan called an offer by Microsoft to keep the “Call of Duty” series on PlayStation for three years after the current agreement “inadequate”.

“I think this is an attempt by Microsoft to pressure Sony into signing a deal with Activision and to make it easier for Microsoft to finish and close the deal with Activision,” said Serkan Toto, founder of the Kantan Games consultancy.

"It’s basically good PR for Microsoft."

Microsoft competes with Sony and Nintendo in the global video game industry, which saw strong growth in recent years with people spending more time at home because of the coronavirus pandemic. The inquisition of the popular first-person shooter series

(With inputs from agencies)

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Call of Duty gained a fresh lease of life on Wednesday after Microsoft entered into a 10-year commitment to bring the gaming title to Nintendo platforms, the chief executive officer of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, said in a post on Twitter on Wednesday.

Call of Duty gained a fresh lease of life on Wednesday after Microsoft entered into a 10-year commitment to bring the gaming title to Nintendo platforms, the chief executive officer of Microsoft Gaming, Phil Spencer, said in a post on Twitter on Wednesday. The development will bring the popular gaming title from Activision Blizzard to Nintento game consoles. I'm also pleased to confirm that Microsoft has committed to continue to offer Call of Duty on @Steam simultaneously to Xbox after we have closed the merger with Activision Blizzard King. @ATVI_AB @ValveSoftware — Phil Spencer (@XboxP3) December 7, 2022 × The announcement comes after Microsoft’s planned $69 billion acquisition of the “Call of Duty” maker raised concern among regulators that the deal could stifle competition, with rival Sony Group Corp criticising the deal and even calling for a regulatory veto. WATCH - Gravitas: UK watchdog pauses Microsoft's acquisition of Activision × Microsoft President Brad Smith tweeted: "Our acquisition will bring Call of Duty to more gamers and more platforms than ever before … Any day @Sony wants to sit down and talk, we’ll be happy to hammer out a 10-year deal for PlayStation as well." Our acquisition will bring Call of Duty to more gamers and more platforms than ever before. That's good for competition and good for consumers. Thank you @Nintendo. Any day @Sony wants to sit down and talk, we'll be happy to hammer out a 10-year deal for PlayStation as well. https://t.co/m1IQxdeo6n — Brad Smith (@BradSmi) December 7, 2022 × Earlier this year, Sony’s gaming chief Jim Ryan called an offer by Microsoft to keep the “Call of Duty” series on PlayStation for three years after the current agreement “inadequate”. “I think this is an attempt by Microsoft to pressure Sony into signing a deal with Activision and to make it easier for Microsoft to finish and close the deal with Activision,” said Serkan Toto, founder of the Kantan Games consultancy. "It’s basically good PR for Microsoft." Microsoft competes with Sony and Nintendo in the global video game industry, which saw strong growth in recent years with people spending more time at home because of the coronavirus pandemic. The inquisition of the popular first-person shooter series (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Microsoft finalises 10-year deal for bringing Call of Duty to Nintendo platform

The European Commission said on Tuesday (November 8) that an in-depth antitrust probe has been opened into Microsoft's bid to buy video games developer Activision Blizzard.

The European Commission said on Tuesday (November 8) that an in-depth antitrust probe has been opened into Microsoft's bid to buy video games developer Activision Blizzard. It was expected that the EU would take time to examine and investigate the deal because of its size and the rising concerns from rivals. In a statement, it said that the probe is because "the proposed acquisition may reduce competition in the markets for the distribution of console and personal computers video games and for PC operating systems." The probe will look into the effects of the takeover "to determine whether its initial competition concerns are confirmed", the commission said. "By acquiring Activision Blizzard, Microsoft may foreclose access to Activision Blizzard's console and PC video games, especially to high-profile and highly successful games (so-called 'AAA' games) such as 'Call of Duty'," it said. In September, media reports stated that Microsoft's deal to buy Activision Blizzard might face an investigation in Brussels and the United Kingdom. Activision Blizzard makes the blockbuster "Call of Duty" game. And concerns were raised after reports emerged that Microsoft's $75 billion acquisition of the video game maker is apparently anti-competitive and will exclude rivals from accessing the popular game. Microsoft apparently did not opt to offer any remedies to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) because there were no commitments the UK regulator would be likely to accept. WATCH | Futuristic airports around the world | Tech It Out × In September, the CMA said that the takeover of the "Call of Duty" maker could hurt competition in gaming consoles, subscription services and cloud gaming in case Microsoft denies giving competitors access to Activision's best-selling games. A similar accusation was made by Sony. It said Microsoft is misleading the gaming industry and regulators about its commitments to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles. Sony had said that Microsoft only offered to keep releasing Activision's hit game on PlayStation for a limited number of years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

EU opens antitrust probe into Microsoft buying Activision Blizzard

Google Chrome, one of the most popular web browsers on the internet will be shutting its shop for users still using it on Microsoft's Windows 7 and Windows 8 operating systems.

Google Chrome, one of the most popular web browsers on the internet will be shutting its shop for users still using it on Microsoft's Windows 7 and Windows 8 operating systems. Reportedly, in a blog post on Monday last week, the company informed about its decision. “We're ending support for Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1. Chrome 110 (tentatively scheduled for release on February 7th, 2023) is the last version of Chrome that will work on these versions of Windows," read the blog post. "If you are currently on Windows 7 and Windows 8/8.1, we encourage you to move to a supported Windows version to ensure you continue to receive the latest security updates and Chrome features," it added. WATCH | WION Fineprint: Google Chrome is most vulnerable browser in 2022 × Notably, Chrome will be tentatively launching its latest update 'Chrome 110' in February next year. The web browser will be available for the two operating system users but they will not be receiving any security updates or extended support. No security updates may put the users at a greater risk of hacking as online fraudsters often exploit the loopholes in older versions to make their scams work. Moreover, the problem may be compounded because Microsoft has also pulled the plug on the aforementioned OS' which will make them unstable. Read more: Is Google Chrome really the 'most vulnerable' browser? The decision by Chrome is in line with the stance taken by Microsoft. Reportedly, the Redmond-based company has also announced plans to end support for Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 users starting January 10, 2023. "After January 10, 2023, Microsoft will no longer provide security updates or technical support for Windows 8.1. You might be able to upgrade your Windows 8.1 device to a newer version of Windows, but we recommend moving to a new PC that can run Windows 11 as the best option," read a notification released by the company. Read more: Microsoft lays off nearly 1,000 workers across multiple divisions: Report Millions of Windows users who are still on the old platforms will now have to switch over or risk exposing themselves to hackers. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Google Chrome will not be providing updates to millions of Windows users. Here's why.

Battling a slumping PC market and a strong dollar, United States Tech Giant Microsoft is set to post its slowest quarterly revenue growth in over five years.

WION Business News | Microsoft revenue forecast under threat

Microsoft has laid off hundreds of workers across multiple divisions, a company spokesperson confirmed to CNET on Tuesday (October 18). This move comes amid tech companies expecting an economic downturn worldwide in demand for tablets and PCs.&nbsp;

Although Microsoft did not confirm the number of jobs it cut, reports have mentioned it laid off nearly 1,000 of approximately 221,000 employees across the organisation. As per multiple reports, layoffs were also done in the Xbox gaming division.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lawmakers-urge-biden-to-recognise-war-crimes-committed-by-pakistan-during-1971-bangladesh-liberation-526624">US lawmakers urge Biden to recognise 'war crimes' committed by Pakistan during 1971 Bangladesh liberation</a>&nbsp;

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The company official said that they will evaluate business priorities as there's a need for structural adjustments.

Microsoft is the latest tech firm to cut staff in the face of slowing growth. Previously Intel, Meta and Google have also done staff reductions.&nbsp;

A Microsoft spokesperson told CNET in an emailed statement: "Like all companies, we evaluate our business priorities on a regular basis, and make structural adjustments accordingly. We will continue to invest in our business and hire in key growth areas in the year ahead."&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/musk-says-he-hasnt-received-any-funding-from-pentagon-for-starlink-services-in-ukraine-526631">Musk says he hasn't received any funding from Pentagon for Starlink services in Ukraine</a>&nbsp;

Notably, the US-based multinational technology corporation had said that a small number of roles had been eliminated. It had said&nbsp;that it would increase its employee count down the line.&nbsp;

In a statement released by Microsoft had said, "Today we had a small number of role eliminations. Like all companies, we evaluate our business priorities regularly, and make structural adjustments accordingly."&nbsp;

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Microsoft has laid off hundreds of workers across multiple divisions, a company spokesperson confirmed to CNET on Tuesday (October 18). This move comes amid tech companies expecting an economic downturn worldwide in demand for tablets and PCs.

Microsoft has laid off hundreds of workers across multiple divisions, a company spokesperson confirmed to CNET on Tuesday (October 18). This move comes amid tech companies expecting an economic downturn worldwide in demand for tablets and PCs. Although Microsoft did not confirm the number of jobs it cut, reports have mentioned it laid off nearly 1,000 of approximately 221,000 employees across the organisation. As per multiple reports, layoffs were also done in the Xbox gaming division. ALSO READ | US lawmakers urge Biden to recognise 'war crimes' committed by Pakistan during 1971 Bangladesh liberation × The company official said that they will evaluate business priorities as there's a need for structural adjustments. Microsoft is the latest tech firm to cut staff in the face of slowing growth. Previously Intel, Meta and Google have also done staff reductions. A Microsoft spokesperson told CNET in an emailed statement: "Like all companies, we evaluate our business priorities on a regular basis, and make structural adjustments accordingly. We will continue to invest in our business and hire in key growth areas in the year ahead." ALSO READ | Musk says he hasn't received any funding from Pentagon for Starlink services in Ukraine Notably, the US-based multinational technology corporation had said that a small number of roles had been eliminated. It had said that it would increase its employee count down the line. In a statement released by Microsoft had said, "Today we had a small number of role eliminations. Like all companies, we evaluate our business priorities regularly, and make structural adjustments accordingly." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Microsoft lays off nearly 1,000 workers across multiple divisions: Report

A study conducted by The Center for Corporate Tax Accountability and Research (Cictar) has&nbsp;alleged that the tech giant Microsoft has&nbsp;evaded billions in taxes in Britain, Australia, and New Zealand—all nations where it has lucrative public sector contracts—due to its complex&nbsp;organisational structure.

Cictar&nbsp;said that the corporation, which maintains that it complies with local rules and regulations wherever it operates, was depriving the public purse&nbsp;of much-needed funds while receiving the&nbsp;taxpayer's&nbsp;money.

"In many cases, Microsoft has paid zero tax in recent years by moving <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/department-of-labour-proposes-new-rule-for-workers-to-be-entitled-to-more-benefits-and-opportunities-524763">profits</a> to companies tax-domiciled in Bermuda and other well-known tax havens," Cictar said in a statement.&nbsp;

The investigation claims that Microsoft Global Finance, an Irish company with tax residency in Bermuda, accumulated more than $100 billion in investments in 2020 while paying no taxes despite having an operating profit of $2.4 billion.

Another instance is Microsoft Singapore Holdings, which reported $22.4 billion in dividend profits in 2020 but only $15 in tax obligations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/elon-musk-launches-perfume-called-burnt-hair-calls-himself-perfume-salesman-524747">Elon Musk launches perfume called 'Burnt Hair', calls himself 'Perfume Salesman'</a>

Tech giant Microsoft has avoided billions in taxes in Britain, Australia and New Zealand, all countries where it has lucrative public sector contracts, because of its complex corporate structure, a study published Thursday claimed.

The company, which insists it respects local laws and regulations everywhere it operates, was starving the public purse of much-needed revenue while receiving taxpayer cash, the Center for Corporate Tax Accountability and Research (Cictar) said.

"In many cases, Microsoft has paid zero tax in recent years by moving profits to companies tax-domiciled in Bermuda and other well-known tax havens," Cictar said in a statement.&nbsp;

According to the study, Microsoft Global Finance -- an Irish subsidiary that has tax resident status in Bermuda -- consolidated more than $100 billion in investments and, despite an operating profit of $2.4 billion, paid no tax in 2020.&nbsp;

In another example, Microsoft Singapore Holdings posted profits from dividends of $22.4 billion in 2020 but announced a tax liability of just $15.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/east-asia/microsoft-plans-to-expand-recruitment-in-china-521296">Microsoft to upgrade its campuses in China, increase recruitment despite US' decoupling push</a>

"Microsoft boasts of profit margins of over 30 percent to its shareholders. Yet, in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, filings show returns of three to four percent," said Jason Ward, an analyst with the organisation.&nbsp;

"It does not seem credible that these wealthy markets are underperforming so dramatically," he said, calling "this type of discrepancy... a huge red flag for tax avoidance".&nbsp;

"Microsoft starves the public sector of much needed revenues" while it "makes billions as a government contractor, with contracts at all levels of government and in virtually every country", Cictar said.&nbsp;

According to the report, Microsoft has entered into public contracts worth at least $3.3 billion over the last five years in Canada, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/department-of-labour-proposes-new-rule-for-workers-to-be-entitled-to-more-benefits-and-opportunities-524763">United States</a>, Australia, and Britain.

More than 80% of Microsoft's total overseas income is "channelled through Puerto Rico and Ireland," according to the study, and the company is under scrutiny by tax officials in the US as well as other nations, including Australia.

"In fiscal year 2021 and 2020, our foreign regional operating centres in Ireland and Puerto Rico," Microsoft said in its 2021 annual report

When contacted by the report's authors, Microsoft stated that it adhered to "all local rules and regulations" in the nations in which it conducts business.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A study conducted by The Center for Corporate Tax Accountability and Research (Cictar) has alleged that the tech giant Microsoft has evaded billions in taxes in Britain, Australia, and New Zealand—all nations where it has lucrative public sector contracts—due to its complex organisational structure.

A study conducted by The Center for Corporate Tax Accountability and Research (Cictar) has alleged that the tech giant Microsoft has evaded billions in taxes in Britain, Australia, and New Zealand—all nations where it has lucrative public sector contracts—due to its complex organisational structure. Cictar said that the corporation, which maintains that it complies with local rules and regulations wherever it operates, was depriving the public purse of much-needed funds while receiving the taxpayer's money. "In many cases, Microsoft has paid zero tax in recent years by moving profits to companies tax-domiciled in Bermuda and other well-known tax havens," Cictar said in a statement. The investigation claims that Microsoft Global Finance, an Irish company with tax residency in Bermuda, accumulated more than $100 billion in investments in 2020 while paying no taxes despite having an operating profit of $2.4 billion. Another instance is Microsoft Singapore Holdings, which reported $22.4 billion in dividend profits in 2020 but only $15 in tax obligations. Also read | Elon Musk launches perfume called 'Burnt Hair', calls himself 'Perfume Salesman' Tech giant Microsoft has avoided billions in taxes in Britain, Australia and New Zealand, all countries where it has lucrative public sector contracts, because of its complex corporate structure, a study published Thursday claimed. The company, which insists it respects local laws and regulations everywhere it operates, was starving the public purse of much-needed revenue while receiving taxpayer cash, the Center for Corporate Tax Accountability and Research (Cictar) said. "In many cases, Microsoft has paid zero tax in recent years by moving profits to companies tax-domiciled in Bermuda and other well-known tax havens," Cictar said in a statement. According to the study, Microsoft Global Finance -- an Irish subsidiary that has tax resident status in Bermuda -- consolidated more than $100 billion in investments and, despite an operating profit of $2.4 billion, paid no tax in 2020. In another example, Microsoft Singapore Holdings posted profits from dividends of $22.4 billion in 2020 but announced a tax liability of just $15. Also read | Microsoft to upgrade its campuses in China, increase recruitment despite US' decoupling push "Microsoft boasts of profit margins of over 30 percent to its shareholders. Yet, in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, filings show returns of three to four percent," said Jason Ward, an analyst with the organisation. "It does not seem credible that these wealthy markets are underperforming so dramatically," he said, calling "this type of discrepancy... a huge red flag for tax avoidance". "Microsoft starves the public sector of much needed revenues" while it "makes billions as a government contractor, with contracts at all levels of government and in virtually every country", Cictar said. According to the report, Microsoft has entered into public contracts worth at least $3.3 billion over the last five years in Canada, the United States, Australia, and Britain. More than 80% of Microsoft's total overseas income is "channelled through Puerto Rico and Ireland," according to the study, and the company is under scrutiny by tax officials in the US as well as other nations, including Australia. "In fiscal year 2021 and 2020, our foreign regional operating centres in Ireland and Puerto Rico," Microsoft said in its 2021 annual report When contacted by the report's authors, Microsoft stated that it adhered to "all local rules and regulations" in the nations in which it conducts business. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Microsoft avoids paying tax in many countries, study finds

Microsoft is reportedly planning to increase its workforce in China to more than 10,000 next year, up from roughly 9,000 currently. The company also said it will expand its campuses in Beijing, Shanghai and Suzhou in the next three to five years. The firm has offices in 13 Chinese cities.

Tech Talk: Microsoft to grow its workforce in China to 10,000 next year

A global slowdown and impending fears of recession have prompted companies across the board to trim their headcount. According to GlobalData's news database, over 60 top companies announced layoffs in the month of August 2022 alone.

A global slowdown and impending fears of recession have prompted companies across the board to trim their headcount. According to GlobalData's news database, over 60 top companies announced layoffs in the month of August 2022 alone. From Microsoft to Apple to Tencent to Xiaomi to Snap, the big tech behemoths fired employees as uncertain macroeconomic conditions threatened to hurt the financial books of the companies. However, experts believe that the worst is yet to come. Sherla Sriprada, business fundamentals analyst at GlobalData, which published the report, cited the example of Microsoft and how the company was planning future cuts as well. "Of particular interest is Microsoft, which laid off 1% of its total workforce due to the economic slowdown, and has plans to terminate a further 200 employees from its consumer research and development (R&D) team as a part of its realignment. The company’s job postings fell by 47 per cent in August 2022 over January 2022,” said Sriprada. As reported by WION, there has been no dearth of big names taking the rather cold call of laying off their employees in recent times. China's Alibaba reportedly fired 10,000 employees as part of cost-cutting measures and due to slowing sales growth and rising prices. Tencent, the crown jewel of China's booming tech sector, reported a slowdown in sales for the first time this year and instantly laid off over 5,500 employees. Meanwhile, Coinbase Global Inc stated it will extend its hiring freeze for the foreseeable future and rescind a number of accepted offers in order to deal with current macroeconomic conditions. Similarly, Meta (formerly Facebook) has paused hiring for several verticals, like shopping and Messenger Kids, which has triggered the fear of layoffs among employees. "I can't sit here and make a permanent ongoing promise that as things shift that we won't have to reconsider that (job cuts)," Zuckerberg told the staff during a meeting. Read more: From Tesla to Peloton, companies slow hiring as US economy sputters Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai earlier this month stated that he wants to make his company 20 per cent efficient while hinting at possible job cuts. “We want to make sure as a company, when you have fewer resources than before, you are prioritizing all the right things to be working on and your employees are really productive that they can actually have impact on the things they’re working on so that’s what we are spending our time on,” said Pichai. Read more: Sundar Pichai hints at slashing Google workforce, wants company 20% more efficient Similarly, banking major Goldman Sachs is planning to fire hundreds of its employees by resuming its annual practice which was halted the last two years due to the pandemic. Experts believe that Goldman Sachs could clip as many as one to five per cent of its low-performance employees. This will mean losing anywhere between 500 to 2,400 employees. Read more: Goldman Sachs to start firing employees from next week amid an economic slowdown (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Signs of global slowdown? 60 top companies fired employees in August

Have you noticed the growing interconnection between devices we use. Almost every gadget now-a-days can be controlled through a virtual assistant but most of us do not understand this nor the UK watchdogs. British communicator regulator Ofcom says it is investigating big tech firms like Amazon, Microsoft, Google.

UK watchdog to investigate tech giants like Google, Amazon

As per&nbsp;a significant new Microsoft survey, managers and employees have fundamentally different opinions on productivity when working from home. Bosses question whether remote work is equally productive as being in the office.&nbsp;

While 87 per cent&nbsp;of employees said that working from home increased their productivity, 80 per cent&nbsp;of supervisors didn't concur. In 11 different nations, the poll questioned more than 20,000 employees.&nbsp;

Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, told the BBC that this tension needed to be handled because it was unlikely that companies would ever revert to their pre-pandemic working practices.

"We have to get past what we describe as 'productivity paranoia' because all of the data we have shows that 80 per cent plus of the individual people feel they're very productive — except their management thinks that they're not productive.&nbsp;That means there is a real disconnect in terms of the expectations and what they feel," says Nadella.

Both Nadella and Ryan Roslansky, the CEO of LinkedIn, which is owned by Microsoft, stated that companies were coping with what may be the largest change in working habits in history.

During the pandemic, there were many more entirely remote jobs posted on LinkedIn than ever before, but Roslansky said data suggested that kind of position may have reached its peak.&nbsp;

About 2 per cent&nbsp;of the 14 or 15 million job listings that are regularly active on LinkedIn contained remote work before the outbreak, he said to the BBC. That was 20 per cent&nbsp;a few months ago, but it has now decreased to 15 per cent&nbsp;this month.&nbsp;

Some businesses have had trouble implementing new working practices and standards.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-russians-emigrating-to-kazakhstan-amid-conscription-drive-519017">More Russians emigrating to Kazakhstan amid conscription drive</a>

In contrast to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who requested 40 hours a week in the office in an email that stated: "If you don't show up, we will assume you have resigned," there has been opposition at Apple to requests to return to the office three days a week beginning in September.&nbsp;

Since the beginning of the pandemic, an unprecedented number of people have also changed employment. Workers born after 1997 (referred to as Generation Z) are roughly twice as likely to change employment, a phenomenon Microsoft has termed "the great reshuffle."

(with inputs from agencies)

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As per a significant new Microsoft survey, managers and employees have fundamentally different opinions on productivity when working from home. Bosses question whether remote work is equally productive as being in the office.

As per a significant new Microsoft survey, managers and employees have fundamentally different opinions on productivity when working from home. Bosses question whether remote work is equally productive as being in the office. While 87 per cent of employees said that working from home increased their productivity, 80 per cent of supervisors didn't concur. In 11 different nations, the poll questioned more than 20,000 employees. Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, told the BBC that this tension needed to be handled because it was unlikely that companies would ever revert to their pre-pandemic working practices. "We have to get past what we describe as 'productivity paranoia' because all of the data we have shows that 80 per cent plus of the individual people feel they're very productive — except their management thinks that they're not productive. That means there is a real disconnect in terms of the expectations and what they feel," says Nadella. Both Nadella and Ryan Roslansky, the CEO of LinkedIn, which is owned by Microsoft, stated that companies were coping with what may be the largest change in working habits in history. During the pandemic, there were many more entirely remote jobs posted on LinkedIn than ever before, but Roslansky said data suggested that kind of position may have reached its peak. About 2 per cent of the 14 or 15 million job listings that are regularly active on LinkedIn contained remote work before the outbreak, he said to the BBC. That was 20 per cent a few months ago, but it has now decreased to 15 per cent this month. Some businesses have had trouble implementing new working practices and standards. Also Read: More Russians emigrating to Kazakhstan amid conscription drive In contrast to Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who requested 40 hours a week in the office in an email that stated: "If you don't show up, we will assume you have resigned," there has been opposition at Apple to requests to return to the office three days a week beginning in September. Since the beginning of the pandemic, an unprecedented number of people have also changed employment. Workers born after 1997 (referred to as Generation Z) are roughly twice as likely to change employment, a phenomenon Microsoft has termed "the great reshuffle." (with inputs from agencies)

Microsoft survey suggests bosses think workers do less from home, but employees disagree

British regulators paused Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision-Blizzard over allegations of anti-competitive practices. Gaming giant Sony is sparring with Microsoft over Activision's cult game - Call of Duty. Priyanka Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: UK watchdog pauses Microsoft's acquisition of Activision

One of the biggest deals in the history of gaming, World Microsoft's acquisition of video game make activision blizzard is now under the lens of regulators. This deal worth around $75 billion dollars faces in-depth probes in Brussels and the UK following growing concerns that this deal is anti-competitive.

Microsoft: 'Call of Duty' to be available on other platforms, xbox competes with Sony's playstation

Microsoft came under scrutiny after Financial Times reported that the US-based tech company's deal to buy videogame publisher Activision Blizzard is expected to face an in-depth probe in Brussels and the United Kingdom.

Microsoft came under scrutiny after Financial Times reported that the US-based tech company's deal to buy videogame publisher Activision Blizzard is expected to face an in-depth probe in Brussels and the United Kingdom. Concerns were raised after reports emerged that Microsoft's $75 billion acquisition of video game maker Activision Blizzard is apparently anti-competitive and will exclude rivals from accessing the popular game Call of Duty. Any remedies to assuage competition concerns were not provided by the software maker. Citing people with knowledge of this particular deal, FT reported on Wednesday (September 14) that Microsoft has opted not to offer any remedies to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) because there were no obvious commitments the UK regulator would be likely to accept. ALSO READ | Instagram working on a new feature called 'Gifts' to monetise reels for creators Earlier this month, the CMA said that the takeover of the "Call of Duty" maker could hurt competition in gaming consoles, subscription services and cloud gaming in case Microsoft denies giving competitors access to Activision's best-selling games. The report mentioned that the UK's CMA is expected to launch an in-depth investigation this week. As quoted by the report, a person in Brussels who is familiar with the transaction said, "It is a big deal, a difficult deal. It needs an extensive investigation." ALSO READ | Robots are here 'for good, or bad,' but will they take over the world? World's most advanced humanoid says no WATCH | World Business Watch: Big tech firms abusing their market power? × This comes after a recent accusation made by Sony. Last week, Sony said Microsoft is misleading the games industry and regulators about its commitments to keep Call of Duty on PlayStation consoles. Sony had said that Microsoft only offered to keep releasing Activision's hit game on PlayStation for a limited number of years. After the latest development, it is understood that the EU investigation could take time to examine the deal because of its size and the rising concerns from rivals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Microsoft's acquisition deal for video game maker Activision to face in-depth antitrust probe

Microsoft's deal to buy videogame publisher Activision Blizzard is expected to face an in-depth UK probe. Concerns were raised after reports emerged that Microsoft's $75 billion acquisition of video game maker Activision Blizzard is apparently anti-competitive.

Microsoft's Activision deal for to face in-depth antitrust probe in UK

There could be some trouble for US-based software giant Microsoft as Britain's anti-trust regulator has started an additional probe on Microsoft Activision $69 billion merger.

Microsoft-Activision merger: 'Deal must be investigated in depth', UK regulator

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