Microsoft's big LinkedIn purchase puts the pressure on Google to respond

And now Microsoft has a pool of valuable data -- based on personal and professional information -- that Google, despite its expensive past efforts, does not. Google will have to answer -- particularly since one product Microsoft said LinkedIn will assist with is Cortana, its artificial intelligence-powered personal assistant. AI is a linchpin feature that Google is using with its enterprise software sales pitch. Google's AI is widely considered best in the industry; but with LinkedIn's data, Microsoft could have a critical edge in its offering that trumps Google. If it wants to catch up, Google's not short on the cash.