Microsoft overhauls Office to reach for the cloud

Microsoft has unveiled a new version of its Office suite of programs in its largest-ever overhaul of the aging workplace software it relies on for most of its profit.

The revamped Office, touted by Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer as the most ambitious version so far, comes with a sleeker, slimmed-down interface designed for use with the upcoming Windows 8 operating system.

It makes use of cloud computing by storing documents and settings on the internet by default, and is compatible with touchscreens. It also incorporates Skype, the video-calling service Microsoft bought last year.