Welcome to our news!
Have you ever wondered what it is Microsoft has been doing lately? If so, you're in the right place. We've carefully selected Microsoft's most significant updates over the last month, making sure you're always up to date.
As Microsoft eventually makes changes that directly impact your business, understanding the latest releases can give you a competitive edge.
Ready to start?
Microsoft Updates - [04/2024]
Sections Organized Information:
1. Update on Microsoft Azure Reserved Instances Pricing
- Date of Announcement: April 24, 2024
- Effective Date: June 1, 2024
- Impacted Audience: CSPs utilizing the Microsoft Azure Reserved Instances price list for commercial and shared services.
Overview: The discontinuation of the legacy Azure Reserved Instances price list streamlines billing processes and standardizes pricing structures, ensuring a more unified and transparent approach across platforms. By transitioning to the new commerce Azure plan reservations price list, Cloud Solution Providers (CSPs) gain access to clearer, more consistent pricing, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and transparency.
2. New Commerce Public Sector Migration Timeline for CSP
- Date of Announcement: April 22, 2024
- Effective Date: Adjusted to August 1, 2024
- Impacted Audience: CSP partners engaged in public sector transactions.
Overview: Revision of the migration timeline for legacy Public Sector offers to new commerce frameworks. This change provides additional preparation time for partners, aligning with broader organizational readiness. Supports sustained compliance and service excellence in public sector engagements.
3. Copilot for Microsoft 365 Availability Expanded
- Date of Announcement: April 22, 2024
- Impacted Audience: All CSP Partners transacting Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365.
Overview: Expanded availability of Copilot for Microsoft 365 to additional SKUs broadens the reach and utility of AI capabilities. Integration of AI across Microsoft 365 apps like Word, Excel, and Teams revolutionizes workplace productivity. Empowers businesses to harness AI technology, driving innovation and competitive advantage.
4. Dynamics 365 Commercial Pricing Update
- Date of Announcement: April 12, 2024
- Effective Date: October 1, 2024
- Impacted Audience: All partners transacting Dynamics 365.
Overview: The first major pricing revision since October 2019 reflects ongoing product enhancements and market conditions. Adjustments account for enhanced capabilities and inflationary pressures, ensuring alignment with market standards. Ensures partners are equipped with competitively priced, cutting-edge business solutions.
5. Licensing Changes for Microsoft 365, Office 365, and Teams
- Date of Announcement: April 1, 2024
- Effective Date: April 1, 2024
- Impacted Audience: CSP Direct Bill Partners, Indirect Resellers, and Licensing Solution Providers.
Overview: Introduction of new licensing structures for Microsoft 365 and Office 365 suites outside the EEA and Switzerland. This strategic shift addresses global regulatory feedback and aligns with localized market demands. Aids in reducing customer confusion and streamlines decision-making processes by offering clear choices. Read the full post here.
Next Steps for Partners:
- Share this critical information with relevant teams and stakeholders within your organization.
- Utilize the Partner Center for detailed pricing lists, migration guidelines, and other resources.
- Engage in scheduled webinars and Q&A sessions to clarify any uncertainties and prepare for upcoming changes.
Upcoming Events:
CSP Program & Licensing Insights (Americas & EMEA)
When: May 28, 2024 4:00 PM (Europe/Lisbon)
[Global CSP]Partner Community Q&A Call - CSP - AMER/APAC - English
When: May 21, 2024 9:00 PM (Europe/Lisbon)