Microsoft Build 2021: Dates, schedule, and everything you need to know

Satya Nadella at Microsoft Build
Satya Nadella at Microsoft Build (Image credit: Windows Central)

Update April 27, 2021 at 1:20 pm ET: Microsoft Build 2021 registration is officially open.

Microsoft Build is happening once again this year. Just like Microsoft Build 2020, the Build conference will be a virtual event that anyone can attend. This is the event where Microsoft usually focuses on developers, announcing new tools and APIs that help make great apps for all of its products, including the best Microsoft Surface PCs. Here's everything we know so far.

Microsoft Build 2021: Dates

Microsoft Build 2021 is happening May 25 - 27 and will be a free virtual event.

Microsoft Build 2021: Schedule

Microsoft has not yet published a schedule for the event. We will update this post as soon as it is published.

Microsoft Build 2021: What to expect

Visual Studio Code

Source: Windows Central (Image credit: Source: Windows Central)

Microsoft Build is usually where Microsoft announces new developer tools, services, and other announcements around building apps and services for Windows, Azure, Teams, and more. This year, we expect much the same, with a focus on Visual Studio, new APIs for building apps across Microsoft's products, and more.

Rumors have suggested that Microsoft may begin to talk about its plans for 'the next generation of Windows' at Build 2021. We don't know for sure, but it would be a good place to start if Microsoft has plans to revitalize the Windows Desktop experience. Detailing new design guidelines or Store policy changes will be important.

Microsoft has already announced some plans for Visual Studio 2022, including the fact that the app will be going 64-bit for the first time. It's likely that Microsoft will talk more about Visual Studio at Build 2021.

Last Build, Microsoft put on a virtual-only conference that was praised by many. Microsoft is likely planning to do the same again this year, as Microsoft has halted all in-person events for the time being. The event will be free, so anyone can sign up and partake in viewing the sessions and chatting with speakers where possible.

Registration is open right now, so head on over to the registration form to sign up.

Zac Bowden
Senior Editor

Zac Bowden is a Senior Editor at Windows Central. Bringing you exclusive coverage into the world of Windows on PCs, tablets, phones, and more. Also an avid collector of rare Microsoft prototype devices! Keep in touch on Twitter and Threads