Microsoft Relocates Build Developer Conference from Seattle

Microsoft has announced that it will not host its annual Build developer conference in Seattle next year. The company has reportedly canceled all future reservations for the event at the Seattle convention center.

According to an unnamed Microsoft spokesperson, “Our plans for Build 2026 have changed, but our vision to empower builders and developers at a major event next year remains unchanged,” as stated in a statement to The Seattle Medium. The spokesperson expressed gratitude towards the city and community for their support over the years. When asked for clarification regarding the reasons for the relocation, Microsoft reiterated the same statement.

Uncertainty Surrounding the Future Location

As of now, it remains unclear where the Build conference will take place next year, or if Microsoft might opt for an online-only format. Reports from The Seattle Medium suggest that the decision to move the event could be linked to attendee experiences in downtown Seattle. An unnamed email cited by the publication indicated that Build attendees had expressed concerns about “the general uncleanliness of the streets, visible drug use, and the presence of unhoused individuals.”

History of the Build Conference

Microsoft has hosted the Build conference in Seattle since 2017, with the exception of the pandemic years from 2020 to 2022, during which the event was held online. The Build conference was established as a successor to the company’s Professional Developers Conference (PDC) and MIX events in 2011. Initially, it took place at the Anaheim convention center in California. In 2012, Microsoft moved the conference to its own campus, before relocating to the Moscone Center in San Francisco for four years.

Protests at the Recent Build Conference

This year’s Build conference was marked by heightened security measures, as hundreds of protesters gathered outside the venue to voice their opposition to Microsoft’s contracts with the Israeli government. The protests included the release of balloons with alarms attached, the unfurling of banners, and the distribution of leaflets. Additionally, there were reports of protesters disrupted Microsoft’s Build keynotes and sessions.

Implications for Developers

The relocation of the Build conference raises questions about the future of developer engagement and community building within the tech industry. As Microsoft seeks to adapt to changing circumstances, the impact on developers who rely on the conference for networking, learning, and collaboration remains to be seen.

In conclusion, while Microsoft’s decision to move the Build conference from Seattle marks a significant shift, the company’s commitment to supporting developers continues. The tech community will be watching closely to see how this transition unfolds and what it means for future events.