Microsoft Canada News Centre

Windows 7 early adoption beats Vista's 2-to-1

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:25:00 GMT

In the five months since its release, Microsoft's Windows 7 has captured twice the usage share than did Vista in the same time period, a Web metrics company said Monday.

The Social Games start with this Olympics

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 13:52:00 GMT

As a boy growing up in rural British Columbia, I can remember sitting down with my family and watching some watershed moments unfold on television. Read more at the Vancouver Sun.

Award in Recognition of the Inuktitut Version of Microsoft Windows Vista and Office 2007

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 16:24:00 GMT

Award in Recognition of the Inuktitut Version of Microsoft Windows Vista and Office 2007

IQALUIT, Nunavut (February 12, 2010) - Honourable Lorne Kusugak, Minister of Community and Government Services, on behalf of Louis Tapardjuk, Minister of Languages, presented Microsoft Canada Inc. with an award in recognition of their contribution to Inuit Language promotion. The presentation occurred during a demonstration of 'Microsoft in the Inuit Language' at the Nunavut Language Summit in Iqaluit on February 11, 2010.

On behalf of the Government of Nunavut, I would like to thank Microsoft Canada, the Pirurvik Centre and others who contributed their time and expertise to make this interface available," said Minister Kusugak.

Since 2004, Microsoft Canada Inc., in collaboration with the Pirurvik Centre and the Government of Nunavut have been working on the development of the Microsoft Inuktitut Language Interface Packs. More than a million words have been translated and approximately 5000 of those terms newly created through this project. With this latest release, users of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office are able to freely download Inuktitut versions of Windows XP, Windows Vista, Office 2003 and Office 2007.

"This is a great example of the government and the private sector working successfully together to help make the Inuit Language working language in our territory," said Tapardjuk. "This is a significant achievement in terms of making Inuktitut available in the information technology systems, and advancing the use of Inuktitut in the workplace."

"Microsoft Canada is committed to developing technology to help improve the lives of all Canadians," said Shann McGrail, Director of Education, Microsoft Canada. "This download will give Inuktitut-speaking Canadians the opportunity to communicate in their own language, something the rest of Canada takes for granted. We hope the language pack will help preserve the language and thank the government of Nunavut for helping us make this a reality."

The Inuktitut versions of Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Office 2007 were officially launched last Spring. The introduction of language-specific programs allows for an increased use of Inuktitut in the workplace, in schools and in the home. Microsoft initiated their Local Language Program to support small and emerging market languages to create localized versions of Office 2003 and Windows XP. This is a first time a small language user group of less than 100,000 speakers are able to use Microsoft interface in their language.

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Media contact:

Napatchie Kolola

Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth

Telephone: (867) 975.5526

E-mail: nkolola@gov.nu.ca

Allison Stokes

Media Profile

Telephone: (416) 342-1830

Email: allison.stokes@mediaprofile.com

Microsoft revenues boosted by Windows 7

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 16:52:00 GMT

If Microsoft's bottom line is any indication, consumers are opening up their wallets again after a long frugal period. Businesses, however are not.

City of Edmonton Innovates with Microsoft on Open Data Catalogue

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 21:32:00 GMT

Becomes first North American City to Leverage Open Government Data Initiative Solution

EDMONTON, AB. - January 14, 2010 - The City of Edmonton announced today that it is working with Microsoft towards the development of the region's first public open data catalogue. The online site will give citizens and developers easier and more transparent access to information and allow them to develop new solutions and suggest ideas that enhance public infrastructure and services.

"Today's launch of the City's open data catalogue demonstrates our commitment to enhancing engagement and collaboration with the citizens and community developers of Edmonton," said Chris Moore, CIO of the City of Edmonton. "By moving to a more open model and working with Microsoft, we hope to harness the talent and innovation that resides locally to drive Edmonton forward."

Edmonton is the first North American city to use the Open Government Data Initiative (OGDI) solution from Microsoft. The solution has been implemented rapidly and at a very low cost to the City by using open source components and Microsoft's newest cloud operating system, Windows Azure^TM technology platform. Using open standards and application interfaces (API), local developers and City IT staff can retrieve data easily for use in new and innovative online applications or mashups that can help improve citizen services, enhance collaboration between the City and private organizations, and increase City transparency.

"OGDI-based solutions not only provide easy access to government data, but also demonstrate how cloud computing can help significantly reduce the cost, complexity and time to market for solutions that consume the data," said John Weigelt, National Technology Officer, Microsoft Canada. "Citizens and community developers will now be able to help solve the business needs of the City of Edmonton, resulting in new solutions in a very short amount of time."

About Microsoft Canada
Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Inc. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.

For more information, press only:

Najat Mahammed, on behalf of Microsoft Canada
416-644-2240, nmahammed@highroad.com

Microsoft and HP Expand Cloud Collaboration

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:51:00 GMT

In a joint conference call this morning, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer and HP chairman/CEO Mark Hurd announced a significant expansion of their business collaboration.

Read more at IT in Canada

Microsoft, HP unveil ‘breakthrough’ stack integration

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:48:00 GMT

Microsoft Corp. and Hewlett-Packard Co. Wednesday announced a $250-million three-year investment toward integrating their respective technology stacks from infrastructure to application in a cloud-driven effort the companies said "represents the most integrated technology stack in the industry today."

Global TV: Fakes and Forgeries exhibit

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 19:25:00 GMT

Watch some of these great fakes now on display at the ROM

Access the video at Global Toronto

CityTV: New ROM exhibit

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 19:20:00 GMT

Watch coverage of the unveiling of the new Fakes and Forgeries exhibit in Toronto.

Access the video at CityTV

Royal Ontario Museum displays its fakes

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 19:17:00 GMT

Exhibit includes displays devoted to counterfeiting of software, currency and modern objects, ranging from hockey jerseys to Goofy figures to toothpaste.

Tech giants step towards tablet revolution

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:05:00 GMT

At the Consumer Electronics Show here Wednesday, reports indicated that software giant Microsoft Corp. and Hewlett-Packard Corp. will join forces to launch a touchscreen, tablet computer.

Ballmer kicks off CES with Microsoft keynote

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 07 Jan 2010 14:03:00 GMT

Microsoft team introduces software, hardware partnerships, slate PCs and give sneak peaks at Halo Reach and Project Natal.

Microsoft unveils Office 2010 retail pricing

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 15:37:00 GMT

Microsoft on Tuesday revealed pricing for the four versions of Office 2010 it plans to sell in the U.S. and added a new SKU to the mix that's tailored to the needs of academia.

Read more at IT in Canada

Eight-year-old from Saskatoon Boys and Girls Club Wins Microsoft Canada's National Holiday Greeting Card Contest

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 17:07:00 GMT

Eight-year-old from Saskatoon Boys and Girls Club Wins Microsoft Canada's National Holiday Greeting Card Contest

Mississauga, ON, December 9, 2009 - Roselle Castro, an eight-year-old girl from the Boys and Girls Club of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan is this year's winner of Microsoft Canada's 13^thannual Holiday Greeting Card contest. To capture the essence of the holiday spirit, children from Boys and Girls Clubs across Canada were invited to design a holiday card based on the theme "This holiday season I promise to...." Roselle's card was selected from over 800 entries. Her artwork will appear on Microsoft Canada's corporate holiday greeting cards that will be distributed to thousands of Microsoft employees, customers and partners across the country.

"Microsoft believes that every child has creative potential; the greeting card contest encourages children to express their creativity through art." said Gavin Thompson, Director of Citizenship, Microsoft Canada. "Roselle's holiday card was very imaginative and her message "...let in peace" was true to this year's theme."

Microsoft Canada presented Roselle with a laptop computer loaded with Microsoft software, a printer and a laptop bag. Microsoft also awarded the Boys and Girls Club of Saskatoon with a $1,000 donation. Microsoft Canada works with Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada across the country to provide programs designed to empower children and youth through technology. This is the 13^th year that Microsoft has partnered with Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada on this initiative.

"Being the contest winner is very exciting! I've been writing about the whole experience in my journal." said Roselle. "I'm very happy and excited to test out my brand new laptop!"

"We are all very proud of Roselle's artistic talents." said Karen McCullagh, Regional Director, Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada, Western Region. "We believe it's important to foster creative development among children and youth and Microsoft's greeting card contest is a fun activity that encourages all of our members to express their artistic skills and imaginations."

About Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada

Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada is a leading charitable organization providing programs that support the healthy physical, educational and social development of more than 200,000 children, youth and their families each year. In 700 community locations across Canada, clubs offer after-school programs in physical recreation, technology, the arts, personal growth and more. Many clubs also provide meals, emergency shelter, family support programs and other supports to children and youth at risk. Boys and Girls Clubs have been helping young Canadians to discover, develop and achieve their potential, for over 100 years. To learn more, visit www.bgccan.com.

About Microsoft Canada
Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.

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For more information please contact:

Sherline Joe

Media Profile

sherline.joe@mediaprofile.com

416-342-1852

Nearly Half of Canadians Worry About Mistakenly Buying Counterfeit Goods Online this Holiday Season

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:49:00 GMT

Microsoft Canada helps Canadians shop smart online with a series of tips

Mississauga, Ontario, - Dec. 2, 2009 - Seventy-five per cent of Canadians will shop online this holiday season, but nearly half are concerned about mistakenly buying counterfeit goods like toys, clothing, video games and software. Microsoft Canada Co. captured Canadians' views on counterfeiting in a national survey conducted by The Strategic Counsel, and found that 40 per cent of consumers are not confident they know how to ensure they are buying genuine software.*

Alongside the explosive growth of the Internet has been a surge in the number of counterfeit goods available online. Today counterfeiters have a global reach and peddle their wares to unassuming consumers through online auction sites, web sites and spam. The anonymity afforded by the web allows counterfeiters to operate with little chance of detection while the risks to consumers are high.

Canadian mother and accounting student, Krista Prong, said she purchased Microsoft Office Professional 2007 via eBay to help her family and herself with school projects.

"I really did my homework and knew the version and price of what I was looking for," she said. "The product looked legitimate when I received it and the seller had a good track record, but upon installing it, I realized I had been sold a high quality counterfeit package. I thought I was out of luck, but after a call to Microsoft's 1-800-R-U-LEGIT hotline, Microsoft helped replace the software."

"Consumers need to be vigilant when shopping online and in the store. That is why we provide resources like the www.howtotell.com website and other tools that help consumers buy smart," said Christopher Tortorice, Corporate Counsel, Anti-Piracy, Microsoft Canada Co. "Software piracy and counterfeiting is a complex, global problem, and we are committed to working with the Canadian government, the RCMP, local law enforcement agencies, and customers and technology partner communities to stay one step ahead of this illegal industry."

"Increasingly, highly sophisticated and organized networks are engaging in the global trade of counterfeit software and other pirated goods. We must continue to focus on effective public and private sector collaboration to unite in the fight against product counterfeiting and copyright piracy in Canada," said Insp. Peter Goulet, Officer in Charge, RCMP GTA Federal Enforcement Section. "The RCMP is committed to working with organizations like Microsoft Canada to help protect consumers."

A few tips to help consumers avoid buying counterfeit products this holiday season include:

1. Understand what you are buying - take time to learn more about the products that you are buying and from whom you are buying. Read reviews and talk to colleagues and retailers so that you build a knowledgeable perspective.

2. Check the prices - if the price seems too good to be true then it probably is.

3. Look for spelling mistakes on the package or a shoddy appearance.

4. For software products, make sure they are licensed. It is standard that every legal piece of software includes a developer's license agreement. This applies whether you are buying software for use on one machine, software to be networked across a number of machines or software that's preloaded as part of a system.

5. If you are unsure if a product is legitimate -- call the manufacturer.

*The online poll of 1,740 adult Canadians was conducted in November 2009 by The Strategic Counsel.

About Microsoft Canada

Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has nine regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit www.microsoft.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Rene Samulewitsch

416-644-2287

rsamulewitsch@highroad.com

Video: Canadian businesses discuss the value of Windows 7

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 14:25:00 GMT

Watch the City of London, Phaeton Automotive and others as they talk about the value of the newest Microsoft operating system.

Ballmer says Windows 7 sales booming

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:58:00 GMT

It's been less than a month since Microsoft launched Windows 7, but the new OS is already far exceeding the sales rate of previous Windows releases.

Read more at IT in Canada

Microsoft launches Windows Azure and supporting channel strategy

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 16:04:00 GMT

As part of its software plus services strategy, Microsoft Corp. has announced the commercial availability of its Windows Azure cloud platform, in addition to a new online marketplace and information and brokerage service for its developer partners.

Microsoft launches Office 2010 Public Beta

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:43:00 GMT

Microsoft on Wednesday launched the public beta of Office 2010, paving the way for all and sundry to experience the suite's expanded collaboration features and cloud computing integration.

Read more at IT in Canada

Microsoft launches Windows Azure platform

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:42:00 GMT

In his opening keynote, Ray Ozzie, Microsoft's Chief Software Architect, described Windows Azure and SQL Azure as core elements of the company's cloud services strategy.

New betas take stage on day two of Microsoft developers' conference

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:40:00 GMT

Microsoft invited developers to test new beta versions of Silverlight 4, Office 2010 and SharePoint 2010.

Microsoft PDC heads for the cloud

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:42:00 GMT

Developers of Microsoft Corp. software and services have been concentrating their efforts on the three screens and cloud as evidenced by numerous announcements at the Microsoft's annual Professional Developers Conference in Los Angeles this week.

Read more at IT in Canada

Microsoft’s Azure gets launch date, new services

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 20:41:00 GMT

Find out what new services Microsoft is rolling out with as its Azure cloud platform heads to a Jan. 1 launch date.

Don’t underestimate the gift of gab this holiday season

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:39:00 GMT

8 out of 10 Canadians judge a person based on his or her "social currency," according to an MSN.ca and Harris/Decima survey

Toronto -November 18^th, 2009- With holiday parties and festive staff functions on the horizon, it may be more important than you thought to be up to date on your current events. In fact, a survey released today by MSN.ca and Harris/Decima revealed that 79 per cent of Canadians judge one another based on their knowledge of what's happening in the world around them.

Since the holidays are a time filled with various social gatherings, Mary-Ellen Anderson, Executive Director/Producer for MSN.ca, believes it's a crucial time to ensure you're up-to-date on the information you need for all your conversations. This is because 40 per cent of Canadians are deeply interested in collecting information and knowledge on various topics, while 37 per cent consider themselves "Connectors" - bringing people together and spreading information.

Unfortunately, not all Canadians have as much general knowledge as they would like. Almost half (47%) of Canadians have frequently or sometimes wished they knew more information on a particular topic so they could actively participate in a conversation happening around them.

"The holidays are a time of giving, but this survey reveals if there's one present you should give yourself it's the gift of information," said Mary-Ellen Anderson. "Whether you are on your way to see your family or heading to the office party, MSN.ca is Canada's one-stop shop for the latest news, politics, movies, music and celeb gossip. Not to mention what's the coolest gadget to buy that special someone."

According to Debra Fine, conversation expert and American best-selling author, being that 'go to' person for current events and reliable information can really raise your status or 'social currency' among co-workers. This is also important in social circles - people will respect you more if you are 'socially current' and knowledgeable on a variety of topics.

Debra suggests the following tips and tricks for impressing colleagues and friends with your socially current knowledge:

- Get More Information For Your Conversations: Since 79 per cent of Canadians are apt to judge one another on their 'social currency' and 90 per cent feel it's important to be up to date on what's happening in the world, a great trick is to skim all the latest headlines for each genre of news i.e. - news, autos, entertainment, finance, etc. You'd be surprised how knowing a little bit about each topic will make you look like the star of the holiday party.

- Find Common Ground: Almost nine-in-ten (86%) Canadians consider themselves to be 'in the know' on a variety of subjects. This is great news because chances are you'll be able to find conversation topics that interest both you and your friend/cousin/colleague etc. For instance, if you know your boss is a car fanatic, check out the Autos Channel on MSN.ca to truly connect with him/her.

- Get Addicted: For almost two-in-five Canadians (38%), a day without their news source is like a day without their morning caffeine fix -they function much better with it. Become a News Junkie and get high on information. You will crave "being in the know" and being the one everyone comes to for socially current conversations this holiday season.

MSN.ca conducted this survey in support of its recent Talk MSN Campaign. The site recently launched its own independently run MSN.ca and is currently the #1 most visited portal in Canada (according to Experian Hitwise, Most Popular Websites in Computers and Internet, Portal Front Pages, ranked by Visits for the week ending November 7th). The site boasts exclusive columnists, trusted experts and amazing content partners.

About MSN and Windows Live

MSN attracts more than 440 million unique users worldwide per month. With localized versions available globally in 42 markets and 21 languages, MSN is a world leader in delivering compelling programmed content experiences to consumers and online advertising opportunities to businesses worldwide. Windows Live, a new set of personal Internet services and software, is designed to bring together in one place all the relationships, information and interests people care about most, with enhanced safety and security features across their PC, devices and the Web. MSN and Windows Live will be offered alongside each other as complementary services. Some Windows Live services entered an early beta phase on Nov. 1, 2005; these and future beta updates can be found at http://ideas.live.com. MSN is located on the Web at http://www.msn.com. MSN worldwide sites are located at http://www.msn.com/worldwide.ashx

About Microsoft Canada

Established in 1985, Microsoft Canada Co. is the Canadian subsidiary of Microsoft Corporation (Nasdaq "MSFT") the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential. Microsoft Canada provides nationwide sales, marketing, consulting and local support services in both French and English. Headquartered in Mississauga, Microsoft Canada has 10 regional offices across the country dedicated to empowering people through great software - any time, any place and on any device. For more information on Microsoft Canada, please visit news.microsoft.ca.

About the Survey

Harris/Decima surveyed 1,013 Canadians from October 8^th to 11^th, 2009 through teleVox, Harris/Decima's telephone omnibus. Results for a sample of this size are considered accurate +/- 3.1%, 19 times out of 20.

For more details regarding the survey results or to speak to Debra Fine please contact:

Elisa Wegenast
High Road Communications
ewegenast@highroad.com
416-644-2261

Meghan Neufeld
High Road Communications
mneufeld@highroad.com
416-644-2278

Come Join The Largest Social Network on Your TV; Facebook and More Arrive on Xbox 360

Microsoft Canada News Centre — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:02:00 GMT

Xbox 360 Delivers Unparalleled Games and Entertainment Experiences

What: Unlock a world of friends, entertainment and games from the comfort of your couch, displayed on the best screen in the house, using Xbox 360® and Xbox LIVE®. Tomorrow, members of Xbox LIVE around the world will have their Xbox 360 consoles transformed and plugged into great value in home entertainment, with access to Facebook, Twitter and Zune® video with instant on HD, all right in your living room.

- Facebook*- Update your status to share what movie, game or entertainment you're enjoying, connect with friends and view their Facebook stream, status updates and photos on the big screen - all seamlessly integrated and custom-built for Xbox 360. You can even compare your Xbox LIVE and Facebook friends lists to see which of your friends are on Xbox LIVE.

- Zune - Zune video on Xbox LIVE offers a full fidelity experience with on HD in 1080p and 5.1 channel surround sound. You can also share the experience with up to seven friends through voice chat and Avatar integration on the TV screen - it puts a whole new spin on "movie night."

- Twitter*- Stay in the know by discovering, posting and replying to Tweets right on your Xbox 360. You can even view friend profiles, trends and conversations, or search to see who's tweeting about your favorite game.

- TV on Your Xbox 360 - Canadians will now have access to more entertainment content than ever before, including the purchase of full-length TV shows from Xbox Live that can be streamed on-demand at any time. The network line-up includes original content from CBC Television, Nickelodeon, MTV, NBC Universal, Comedy Network and more.

Don't have an Xbox 360? Now, more than ever, Xbox gives you great ways to stay connected, share fun and entertainment, starting at $199 (CDN ERP; reseller pricing may vary).

Why: We're continuing to evolve Xbox LIVE to bring more games, more entertainment and more social experiences all from a single device. As a Gold member on Xbox LIVE, you get access to Facebook, Zune Video and Twitter - providing you with a pipeline of content that is always being updated and refreshed. For just under $5 per month, Xbox LIVE Gold membership is great value in home entertainment.

When: Launching on November 17

* Xbox LIVE Gold adult account required to access these features. Xbox LIVE Gold memberships are just under $5 (CDN) per month

For more information, please contact:
Pam Stillman, High Road Communications pstillman@highroad.com
416-644-2280

For more information, media only: http://www.xbox.com/en-CA/live/features/zune.htm

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