Microsoft and Dassault Systemes expand alliance.

Dassault Systemes and Microsoft Corp. have announced the extension of their alliance, committing to add advanced new features to Microsoft's Virtual Earth platform. Combining Microsoft's geolocalisation technology with DS's proven 3D modeling and realistic visualization know-how, this alliance will enable consumers to add an entirely new level of realism within Virtual Earth, providing an unrestricted freedom for creativity and innovation. "Together, our technologies will allow for a fusion of the real and virtual worlds that unleashes our imagined world and bridges it with the one we live in," said Dassault Systemes. "'Our lifelike 3D modeling solution will provide a robust dimension to Microsoft's powerful, immersive online mapping and visualization experience." www.3ds.com