Microsoft pushes back full reopening to at least September

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While the COVID-19 pandemic still rages on, Microsoft is joining other tech companies in pushing back their office reopenings to later this year. Microsoft's full reopening was initially scheduled for July, but now it has been moved to at least September 7. According to a Microsoft spokesperson, the reschedule is its response to "continued consultation with health and data experts."

In an email to staff, Microsoft's Executive VP Kurt DelBene said the delay also gave "additional flexibility" for employees making summer plans. He also said local office managers have the freedom to institute further delays depending on the situation in their areas.

Microsoft is in a "soft open" phase right now, where a small number of staff members can return to in-person. Around 20% of Microsoft's global employees are back in the office. The company has said in the past that it could let most staff work from home for up to half of the week, so the pressure to reopen isn't as urgent as in the past.

Source: Engadget