In response, Microsoft says it is commissioning a third-party review that will examine potential conflicts in the company’s values and products. With this response, the shareholder proposals have been closed. Bloomberg reports Microsoft will use the review to also look at how its surveillance technology impacts human rights. Below is the statement Microsoft issued regarding the matter: “In response to shareholder requests, Microsoft Corp. will commission an independent, third-party assessment to identify, understand, assess, and address actual or potential adverse human rights impacts of the company’s products and services and business relationships with regard to law enforcement, immigration enforcement, and other government contracts. The assessment will include consultation with BIPOC communities, including immigrants, and other groups representing communities most impacted by Microsoft’s surveillance products, law enforcement and government contracts.” Microsoft says the review will be complete and its findings released in 2022.
Other Controversies
Microsoft has taken a firm and respectable stance regarding facial recognition technology. The company has called for concise regulation of the tech and has refused to work with companies thought to have shared facial data. Shareholders are showing they can play a pivotal role in guiding Microsoft towards better customer care. This month, shareholder proposals pushed the company to commit to making it easier for consumers to repair their Surface devices. Tip of the day: Windows Aero Shake is a handy feature that lets you quickly reduce screen clutter with a shake of an app’s title bar. Doing so minimizes all windows other than the one in focus, allowing you to focus solely on what’s at hand. Another wiggle lets you undo Aero Shake, maximizing the other Windows again so you can continue working. Unfortunately, the feature can also have unintended consequences. Those who move their windows about or have dual monitors may notice that they’re accidentally activating Windows shaking. Luckily, enabling or disabling Aero shake isn’t too hard
