NeoBytes :) is an occasional feature that takes a step back from the big headlines, to take a look at what else is happening in the vast, scary expanse of the tech world - often with a cynical eye, always with a dose of humor.
Let"s face it, the older and the younger generations speak different languages. We"ve all experienced that awkward moment - whether you"re part of that younger generation or you have a memory of it - when the older generation tries to speak your language, and it just doesn"t work.
That happened to Microsoft today. Twitter user Patrick Burtchaell says that his roommate received the following email from the company today:
Clearly, the level of cringe is pretty high here. For the oldies out there, here"s what you missed: "bae" is a term of affection, like baby, but shortened, and an "e" added, for some reason. "Hella noms" means lots of food, "dranks" means drinks, and "getting lit" means getting drunk, or drank, or whatever the kids are calling it these days.
For the youngsters out there, here"s what you missed: Yammer is like a social network for businesses. Let"s put that in perspective:
Presumably, Microsoft will issue a statement within the next few days that this email does not reflect its values as a company. It could be a similar situation to when the firm had an Xbox party with all female dancers, and later apologized.