January 29, 2026

  Blog

Will Microsoft’s AI Strategy Pay Off?

Barry Briggs by
Barry Briggs

Before joining Directions on Microsoft in 2020, Barry worked at Microsoft for 12 years in a variety of roles, including... more

It’s only January, but already 2026 is shaping up to be a critical year for Microsoft AI, the tech industry, and everyone who depends on Microsoft products.

Directions on Microsoft‘s VP of Research Barry Briggs breaks down Microsoft’s AI strategy and long-term bets in this video. He details how AI could reshape business, productivity, and the workforce, along with the opportunities and risks of this new industrial revolution.

Microsoft’s AI deliverables this year look quite a bit different than it did last year. The big question: Will Microsoft’s AI strategy pay off?

Before joining Directions on Microsoft in 2020, Barry worked at Microsoft for 12 years in a variety of roles, including as Chief Technology Officer for Microsoft’s own IT organization for... more