Microsoft Build 2026 Is Moving Out of Seattle — Here’s What We Know
After years of being rooted in Seattle, Microsoft is officially relocating its annual Build developer conference for 2026. If you’re wondering why Microsoft Build is leaving Seattle or where it might go next, you’re not alone. This change has sparked major buzz in the developer and tech communities. While Microsoft hasn’t confirmed a new location yet, it has made clear that Build will still take place in 2026 — just not in its longtime hometown. Let’s explore what’s behind the move, what it means for developers, and where the iconic event might be headed.
Why Is Microsoft Build Leaving Seattle?
Microsoft has hosted Build in Seattle since 2017, making the city a familiar destination for developers worldwide. But as of 2026, that tradition is ending. According to a statement from Microsoft, the change aligns with “evolving plans” for the event, though no specific reasons were officially given. However, reports suggest attendee feedback about Seattle’s downtown conditions — including safety concerns, visible homelessness, and cleanliness issues — may have influenced the decision. While unconfirmed, this feedback reflects a growing trend of tech events reassessing in-person locations in the post-pandemic era.
What Will the Future of Microsoft Build Look Like?
Although Seattle is no longer in the picture, Microsoft Build 2026 will continue — either in a new city or possibly as a hybrid or virtual experience. The pandemic years (2020–2022) showed that Build could thrive in an online-only format. Still, in-person events offer unique opportunities for community building, networking, and hands-on learning. Developers are now eagerly awaiting details on the new venue, especially given past Build events in tech hubs like San Francisco and Anaheim. Wherever it lands, the goal remains clear: to empower developers with tools, updates, and insights into the Microsoft ecosystem.
How This Move Reflects Larger Trends in Tech Events
Microsoft’s decision to move Build away from Seattle is part of a broader shift among tech companies reevaluating how and where to host major conferences. Rising costs, safety concerns, and the success of virtual experiences have all contributed to this transformation. Add in global protests — like those seen during Build 2025 over Microsoft’s contracts — and it becomes evident why companies are prioritizing flexibility, inclusivity, and security when planning large-scale events. This move may set a precedent for other industry gatherings in the years ahead.