Microsoft purchases SwiftKey for $250 million

Microsoft has just bought popular Android and iOS software keyboard maker SwiftKey for $250 million. Although SwiftKey gained its reputation for creating innovative predictive keyboards that make using software keyboards on smartphones more efficient, it seems that Microsoft is after possible Artificial Intelligence applications. 

Once a paid app with 300 million users on Android and iOS, SwiftKey went for the premium model and has struggled to profit from a highly competitive segment of aftermarket predictive software keyboards. While it has yet to be formally announced, Microsoft will likely absorb the company’s 150 employees around the world are expected to join Microsoft Research. 

Source:9to5Mac

Microsoft delays Windows 10 Mobile update for older devices to 2016

Microsoft isn’t doing itself any favours with this latest news. The company announced it will be delaying the update for some Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 phones until “early next year.” Originally, Windows 10 Mobile was supposed to roll out this month. For now, you only get access to Windows 10 Mobile if you have the Lumia 950 or 950 XL.

The other bad news is they aren’t even specifying which Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 devices will be getting Windows 10 Mobile update. With its already tiny 1.7 percent market share, according to the latest Gartner figures on the third quarter of 2015, this isn’t helping them out the least.

Source: Mashable

Microsoft's employees serenade Apple Store specialists in latest holiday ad

This is definitely an 'aww' moment and one that signifies that in the end, we're all just people belonging to the same world. In its latest holiday ad, Microsoft shows its retail employees form a beeline for the Apple Store in 5th Avenue where they serenade Apple Store specialists and customers by singing "Let there be Peace on Earth." At the end of this moving rendition, we see Apple peeps and Microsoft peeps break ranks to greet and hug each other while business in both flagship stores supposedly grinds to a halt. This is great ad with a great message at a time that needs it the most.

Microsoft's 12 Days of Holiday Deals revealed

As my kids get the joy of opening up their advent calendars today the reality of December has kicked in for me. We are officially into the heat of holiday shopping season and it's the gift list is real. 

I am definitely one for surprises so I'm keeping my eye on Microsoft's 12 Days of Deals to see if I can cross off a couple of people on my list and save a litte $$$. Each day, starting December 1st, a new offer will be revealed at MicrosoftStore.ca so if you missed out on Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals no worries! 

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