Microsoft news recap: Microsoft Rewards arrives on the Bing app for Android, Bing Maps gets new Birds Eye imagery and more

Jack Wilkinson

Microsoft

Microsoft (MSFT) news recap is a weekly feature highlighting the top Microsoft news stories of the past week. Sit back, grab some coffee, and enjoy the read!

Microsoft Launcher offers revamped home screen experience with latest beta release

As a welcome gift to Microsoft fans on Android, the Microsoft Launcher has received a new beta release that delivers a revamped home screen, with changes such as a 12×12 grid layout.

Microsoft launcher

Update adds Rewards integration to the Android Bing app

Another small gift for Android users, the Bing app now has Microsoft Rewards integrated, allowing users to display their rewards information in a widget on the home screen.

IMG 1104

Microsoft picks up two HoloLens distribution partners in Europe, Econocom and Bechtle

As Microsoft continues to expand HoloLens, it has teamed up with two distribution partners in Europe, Econocom and Bechtle, who will allow local corporations to get ahold of the device. The companies will provide financing solutions as well, such as subscriptions or pay-per-use.

HoloLens

Bing Maps adds new areas of Birds Eye Imagery

If you’re planning a vacation or a trip, Bing Maps now has additional areas covered by its Birds Eye feature, allowing a closer look at famous landmarks and the nearby areas.

Some of the new areas include the Ferry Building in San Francisco, CA, Sculpture Park in Denver, CO, and Wrigley Field in Chicago IL. There are also some global destinations as well, including The Pantheon in Rome, Italy.

FerryBuilding SanFranciscoCA

That’s it for this week. We’ll be back next week with more Microsoft news.