Dell Modifies Conference To Virtual Version Over Coronavirus

ROUND ROCK, TX — Dell has canceled its World 2020 conference that was planned in Las Vegas in favor of a virtual version over fears of the new coronavirus outbreak, officials announced.

"Because nothing is more important than the health and safety of our team members, customers, partners and suppliers, we have decided to make Dell Technologies World 2020 a virtual event," Dell officials said in a prepared statement on Friday. "This decision was not made lightly. As we learn more about the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, we know this is the right thing to do, given the global nature of Dell Technologies World."

The respiratory ailment that has since been renamed COVID-19 is caused by a member of the coronavirus family that’s a close cousin to the SARS and MERS viruses that have caused outbreaks in the past.

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Dell officials said the gathering's breakout sessions and live chats with industry experts would continue, but remotely via virtual attendance. The conference had been scheduled for early May in Las Vegas.

According to an event website, the gathering is described as catering to technologists and executives from all industries and skill levels poised to transform their careers and organizations. Experience inspiring speakers, the newest technology, thought-provoking activations and legendary entertainment, according to the World 2020 conference website.

Those who booked a reservation at the Venetian or Palazzo hotels to attend the conference would have their reservations automatically canceled, company officials said. Dell said it would release further details, asking would-be attendees not to contact hotels directly.