MS showcases technologies

Global software major Microsoft Corporation held 'TechXchange 2007' here to showcase important innovations, technologies and products of its Hyderabad-based Microsoft India Development Centre (MSIDC) and the Bangalore-based Microsoft Research India (MSRI).

The two-day event featured close to 50 demos and posters and seven talks on various topics on computer science. "This is the first-of-its-kind being held here and we hope to do it annually," MSRI managing director, P Anandan, told mediapersons.

Besides showcasing technologies, he said, the event was aimed at sharing knowledge, explore common interests and deepen collaboration.

According to Anandan, MSRI is currently focusing on six areas of research including digital geographies, rigorous software engineering, cryptography, security and algorithms.

MSIDC vice-president and managing director, Srini Koppolu, said the two Indian outfits of Microsoft envisage collaborations in the areas of software engineering, multilingual systems, mobile networks and applications as well as technologies for emerging markets.

With regard to technologies for emerging markets, the company is looking at the areas like healthcare, education and computer penetration.

"We are looking at the scenarios and requirements and coming out with tailor-made solutions," Koppolu said.

MSIDC, Microsoft's largest product development centre outside the US, currently has about 1,300 employees. On the other hand, MSRI has 50 employees of which 45 are engaged in research.