Kudos to Cannonball, who pointed out a CNet news report on Microsoft's purchase of Bungie. Clearly, Microsoft is comfirming their role in this, and some new information can be found in the article. An excerpt:

As part of the purchase, Microsoft acquired Take-Two Interactive Software Inc.'s 20 percent stake in Bungie. Take-Two, Bungie's current distributor, has acquired ownership of one of Bungie's two upcoming releases, a game called Oni, as well as the rights to Myth games.

Well, somewhat new info anyways. Of note is the remark that Microsoft acquired Bungie to bolster console as well as personal computer game development. Absent is the familiar rumor that Halo will be X-Box only, but only time will tell on this one.