Build 2016 – Another Blockbuster Event by Microsoft
Microsoft Build is an annual conference held by Microsoft and that is aimed towards software and web developers who make use of Microsoft technologies. First held in 2011, the Microsoft Build is a much sought after event that witnesses a huge turnout year after year. Every year, Microsoft uses Build as a platform to make major announcements with respect to its products and services and also gives the latest updates on its future plans.
Live from San Francisco
Build 2016, a 2 day event held between March 31st and April 21 in San Francisco, was yet another successful event and saw Microsoft making some major announcements around Windows 10, cloud services, developer tools and productivity extensions.
Windows 10 Anniversary Update
At Build 2016, Microsoft announced the Windows 10 Anniversary Update. This update is set to deliver significant innovations for consumers and developers for the Universal Windows Platform. With over 270 million active Windows 10 devices, the Windows 10 anniversary update is set to augment user interaction through Windows Ink, Windows Hello and Gaming:
- With Windows Ink, users can write on their device, create sticky notes, draw on a whiteboard and easily share their thoughts in the digital world.
- The new Windows Hello features extend bio-metric security of Windows 10 to apps and Microsoft Edge, allowing users to log into their devices and websites with enterprise-grade security.
- With the Windows 10 Anniversary update, Gaming takes a leap with background music and Cortana coming to Xbox One. Gamers can use Cortana as their personal gaming assistant and help find new games, new challenges and tips and tricks.
Innovations in Cloud Services
At Build 2016, Microsoft demonstrated how Azure services and the Office platform can be used to leverage advanced analytics, machine learning, emerging cloud development models and the Internet of Things (IoT) to build intelligent apps.
Improved Development Tools
Build 2016 saw Microsoft announcing new free development tools that will help every developer to more easily scale their apps for every platform and reach the largest possible number of customers. The Windows 10 update also offers a productive development environment for all developers.
Introduction of Skype Bots
Microsoft Skype has been bringing together hundreds of millions of people from around the world every day. At Build 2016, Microsoft introduced Skype Bots that will bring expertise, products, services and entertainment into daily messaging on Skype. Each Bot will enhance the Skype experience, helping turn user ideas and plans into actions.
Introduction of Cortana Intelligence Suite
Cortana, Microsoft’s personal digital assistant, has been upgraded and will enable organizations to leverage on the power of Big Data, Cloud and Intelligence to build the next generation of intelligent solutions. Microsoft also announced Cortana’s integration with Skype that will enable users to get things done directly in their Skype chats. Cortana can proactively help users find information, manage calendar and connect to other Bots that are relevant to the user, all without leaving Skype. New Cortana features also enable users to speak to Cortana and receive proactive guidance throughout the day, even while their device is locked.
HoloLens
Microsoft HoloLens, the company’s first fully untethered holographic computer that enables users to interact with high-definition holograms, can now be used by developers to build the future of holographic computing. Several commercial customers in several industries that use HoloLens can now use the Universal Windows Platform to create new mixed reality with holograms.
Making Windows the Best Environment
Build 2016 witnessed Microsoft putting great emphasis on making Windows 10 the best developer environment. With the goal of reaching 1 billion Windows 10 devices in the next few years, Microsoft is taking great strides in incorporating some innovative and modern elements in the platform in order to offer exceptional user experiences.
Keval Padia is the founder & CEO of Nimblechapps, a fast-growing mobile app development company. The current innovation and updates of the field lures him to express his views and thoughts on certain topics.