Various technologies such as augmented reality, multi-modal interactions, gesture based interfaces, surface computing etc. are means to achieve immersive interaction experiences for end customers.

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Pricing 150, 000 equity options in a second or assessing how much crude oil sits in a pocket 6 miles below the earth's surface are massively parallel mathematical computing problems for which graphics processors are peculiarly equipped.

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For many years, he has promoted speech input, stylus-based computing and, with Surface, visual recognition.

WSJ: The Shape of Computers to Come?

Last year, Microsoft made its first foray into homegrown computing devices with its Surface tablet, and company executives have said more devices are in the works, as it makes a shift from a software maker to what Chief Executive Steve Ballmer has called a "devices and services" company.

WSJ: Microsoft Plans 7-Inch Tablet

Ms. Reller declined to discuss Microsoft's plans for more homegrown computing devices in addition to two models of its Surface tablet-style computer introduced since October.

WSJ: Microsoft Concedes Windows 8 Misses Expectations

The IT arm of NYSE Euronext announced beta of Capital Markets Community Platform, its cloud computing offering this week, and the effort, on the surface, is a good example for other vertical markets to follow.

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On the surface at least, Amazon.com and Google have dominated the buzz (and developer activity) around cloud computing more than Microsoft.

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