Microsoft sets up MSN R&D center in China
Software giant Microsoft Corp. is setting up a research and development center in Shanghai for its online MSN service, its first such center outside the United States, sources familiar with the plan said on Wednesday.
The move came after Microsoft saw setbacks in its online services in China, including the resignation of a top executive responsible for the company’s Windows Live unit in China late last year.
“It’s a clear signal that Microsoft won’t give up its online MSN service in China even though it may have some problems in its local operations,” one source, who declined to be identified told Reuters.
“Twenty million dollars is really small money to Bill Gates, but it’s important to notice that Microsoft has chosen Shanghai for its first overseas MSN R&D center,” the source added.
