Microsoft has formally launched its R&D group in Beijing, National Business Daily reports. According to Microsoft, the group will receive US$100 million every year, to be spent primarily on talent. In the next three to five years, the group will enlarge its ranks from 800 to 3000 people. The R&D Group brings together Microsoft's Asian research and technology units into one single entity. Chen Yongzheng, Microsoft vice president and CEO of the greater China region, said that with the establishment of the R&D group, the China region has become one of the most well-equipped in Microsoft's organization, and receives one of the largest shares of R&D money.Link: http://www.nbd.com.cn/admin/module/news/newsFile/20061192521.htm