What you need to know
- Registrations for the virtual Build 2020 conference open today.
- The conference sessions will be free to watch.
- Microsoft plans more of a focus on Build's core developer audience.
Update: You can now register for Microsoft Build 2020.
Microsoft is set to open registrations for this year's virtual Build 2020 conference today, according to CNBC. The event will be free to attend and watch; registration ensures developers will be able to participate in question and answer sessions. This year's event is also planned to narrow its focus down to sessions for the core developer audience, according to CNBC's report.
That narrowed focus will likely mean fewer big announcements related to new consumer features for Windows 10 and Office. However, developers should have plenty to dive into. "Executives will talk about artificial intelligence technologies, the Azure cloud, the Microsoft 365 family of products including the Office productivity bundle," according to CNBC.
The report also notes that the keynote presentations will be shorter than typical Build keynotes. Some of the sessions will be pre-recorded, while others will take place live to encourage interaction. CNBC also reports that Microsoft will provide a virtual press room for journalists on Microsoft Teams.
In March, Microsoft announced that it would cancel the Build 2020 in-person event in favor of a virtual event due to the current situation around the COVID-19 pandemic. Later, the company revealed that it will make most of its events through 2021 virtual affairs amid uncertainty around the pandemic. Microsoft joins countless other companies that have taken their events virtual.
Build 2020 is set to take place from May 19 through May 20. You can learn more about the conference at the official Build 2020 website.
