Microsoft Designs New Office for the Cloud

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer introduced the next version of Office saying that the suite has been completely-re-designed for the cloud and social interaction.

Specifically, the new Office is available as a cloud-based subscription service. Office saves documents to SkyDrive by default, so content is always available across the user's tablet, PC and phone. As subscribers, consumers automatically get future upgrades in addition to cloud services including Skype world minutes and extra SkyDrive storage. Subscribers receive multiple installs for everyone in the family and across their devices.

Microsoft has also incorporated Yammer, which delivers a secure, private social network for businesses. Yammer offers integration with SharePoint and Microsoft Dynamics.

In addition, Office is adding a People Card, which provides an integrated view of contacts in each application. The People Card includes presence information complete with pictures, status updates, contact information and activity feeds from Facebook and LinkedIn accounts.

"We are taking bold steps at Microsoft,” Ballmer said at the press conference in San Francisco. “The new, modern Office will deliver unparalleled productivity and flexibility for both consumers and business customers. It is a cloud service and will fully light-up when paired with Windows 8." http://www.microsoft.com