Microsoft is planning a series of news events in the coming months that will focus on such categories as gaming, cloud and Windows. The edge has learned that Microsoft is spending time on certain categories at a time when the pandemic has stopped personal events. Microsoft’s first event takes place later this week, focusing on what’s next for work and Microsoft 365.
The company is planning similar events that focus on what’s next for its cloud ambitions, as well as gaming, Windows and security in the coming months. Microsoft will typically discuss a wide variety of its products at events such as Ignite or Build, and this will continue, but these individual events are meant to highlight what the product changes mean for entire categories.
The Windows event will likely focus on Microsoft’s “sweeping visual rejuvenation” of the operating system, which is currently code-named “Sun Valley,” and the company’s Windows 10X efforts. Microsoft is making a greater effort this year to overhaul the Windows user interface, with visual changes planned to improve operating system consistency.
Microsoft also has big plans for gaming in general in 2021, especially with its Xbox Game Pass and xCloud work. Microsoft’s special gaming event will likely focus on the company’s plans to expand xCloud and its gaming efforts in a year that will see a “redesigned” E3.
This whole approach to Microsoft’s news events is different from previous years. It takes place during a year in which many people continue to work and even study remotely. The pandemic has reshaped entire industries and is likely to fuel many of Microsoft’s 2021 announcements. If the events turn out to be a success, it could even determine how Microsoft plans its news announcements for years to come.