Microsoft inks AI newsroom projects | NanoString enters bankruptcy process

A new jewel in wearable tech: Researchers at the University of Washington have created a wireless, wearable device called the “Thermal Earring” that is designed to read body temperature better than a smartwatch. The earring, which is not yet commercially available, can also monitor for signs of stress, eating, exercise and ovulation. Read more.

Microsoft announced five projects to help news organizations incorporate generative artificial intelligence into their operations, building on its existing efforts to support the role of journalism in democracy. The move highlights the complex relationship between tech giants and a broader news industry that has been repeatedly disrupted by digital innovations. And don’t forget about that recent New York Times lawsuit against Microsoft, as well. Read more.

NanoString enters bankruptcy process: It’s the latest in the fallout from a patent infringement legal battle involving the publicly traded Seattle biotech company. Read more.  

End of console wars? ​​Rumors have been in circulation for weeks that Microsoft might publish some of its exclusive games on competing consoles. The shift in strategy for Microsoft’s gaming business — which is now larger than Windows —  could set a new precedent. Read more.

Tech Moves: Seattle marketing vet Brian Goldfarb lands at SolarWinds; ex-PopCap GM joins Sony; and more personnel changes in Pacific Northwest tech. 

Microsoft’s resurgence: Sunday, Feb. 4, marked exactly a decade since Satya Nadella took over as CEO at Microsoft. S. “Soma” Somasegar, Madrona managing director and former Microsoft executive, writes in a guest post that Nadella’s leadership style “reshaped the company’s culture, fostering agility, innovation, and collaboration.” Read more. 

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Hot Links:

• Digital ad market is rebounding: That's one takeaway after last week’s earnings reports from Alphabet, Meta and Amazon. (CNBC)

• Dare Obasanjo spent 17 years at Microsoft, and was sure the company’s innovative spirit was dead in 2007. Here are five things he learned about leadership from that death and company rebirth. (Medium)