Software giant Microsoft Corp. will invest $280 million in a Beijing research and development, according to media reports.

The research center is due to open in 2010, according to Bloomberg. The investment is set to increase the number of Microsoft's Chinese researchers to 3,000 within five years, the report said, citing a person with knowledge of the company's plans.

A range of products will be developed at the facility, including those for use in China and for markets overseas.

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