14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft’s Build conference, the annual event that the company uses to get in touch with developers, partners, and consumers to unveil new software plans, might be at risk due to the coronavirus outbreak after two deaths caused by the virus confirmed in the Washington state.
A report from MSPU speculates, albeit no confirmation exists at this point, that the Build developer conference could be canceled due to the infection.
However, neither Microsoft nor anybody else familiar with its plans commented on the matter so far.
Seattle Mayor Jenny A. Durkan advises everyone to stay at home if they get sick in an attempt to prevent the virus from spreading.
“Our public health officials at the state, local and national levels are working together to keep the public safe and informed. Individuals, families and businesses should make plans and prepare. The number one thing people can do now is to heed the public health advice to keep from getting sick, and stay home if you do get sick,” the Mayor said.
The coronavirus impact
Meanwhile, other high-profile events have already been canceled due to the coronavirus.
Last month, the Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, the place where the majority of phone makers announce their new devices, was canceled after several companies decided to keep their staff at home. Furthermore, the Geneva International Motor Show, which is one of the largest auto shows in the world, got canceled a few days ago.
Microsoft itself announced recently that it would no longer attend the GDC gaming conference over coronavirus concerns.
“After a close review of guidance by global health authorities and out of an abundance of caution, we’ve made the difficult decision to withdraw from participating at Game Developers Conference 2020 in San Francisco,” the company said, adding that it would stick with an online-only event during the same week to share its gaming news.