Windows Weekly 911: A Back-End Guy – Detailed Episode Summary
Release Date: December 11, 2024
Hosts: Leo Laporte, Paul Thurrott, Richard Campbell
Podcast: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
1. Introduction and Hosts
The episode kicks off with Leo Laporte welcoming listeners to Windows Weekly, hosted by Paul Thurrott and Richard Campbell. The trio sets a relaxed and engaging tone, briefly touching upon the holiday season with decorations and personal anecdotes before delving into the main topics of discussion.
2. Microsoft Windows Updates: Patch Tuesday and 24H2
Final Patch Tuesday of 2024
Paul Thurrott begins by discussing the latest Patch Tuesday released on December 10, 2024. He mentions that this is the final Patch Tuesday for the year, emphasizing the significance with the statement:
“So the final patch Tuesday of 2024.” [03:42]
He elaborates on the updates included in the Windows 24H2 release:
- Jump Lists in Start Menu: Enhancements allow users to see jump lists for applications directly in the Start menu.
- Taskbar Time and Date Display: The time and date display has been shortened by default, removing the seldom-used notification bell icon.
- Android File Sharing: Introduced over Wi-Fi, enabling users to access their Android device’s file system directly through File Explorer without a cable connection.
Paul reflects on the chaotic nature of Windows Updates throughout 2024, predicting continued instability into 2025:
“This is kind of the final... feature set, slice in time for the year. But as we're about to discuss, there's actually a lot more coming.” [05:08]
Chaos in Windows Updates
Both Paul and Richard express frustration over the complexity and instability introduced with the 24H2 update. They compare the multiple deployable branches to a chaotic mess, making it challenging for Microsoft to maintain reliability.
“It's looking like... you're walking back with a giant plate of spaghetti and you trip and it lands all over the place.” [06:04]
Paul criticizes Microsoft's approach to updating Windows, highlighting the dissonance between the mature, legacy desktop platform and the relentless introduction of new features.
“Microsoft just can't stop throwing stuff at it.” [07:03]
Richard concurs, noting the technical and political challenges faced by Microsoft:
“It's a combination of technical and political issues.” [06:49]
The hosts lament that businesses are hesitant to migrate to Windows 11, citing instability and the ongoing issues with Windows 24H2.
3. ARM-Based PCs and Enterprise Pushback
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Performance
Paul highlights the advancements made by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon processors in the PC space, praising their reliability, security, and performance. He contrasts this with the ongoing struggles of Intel and AMD in meeting the demands of modern computing.
“They solve a lot of problems with reliability and security and, you know, performance and all that kind of stuff.” [12:32]
Challenges of ARM Adoption in Enterprises
Despite the technical merits, ARM-based PCs face significant resistance in the enterprise sector. IT administrators express concerns over hardware compatibility and the need for specific, often legacy, applications to run seamlessly.
“The pushback against ARM in the enterprise... is in some ways misguided.” [12:32]
Paul argues that decision-makers within organizations, driven by executive visions for modernized hardware akin to consumer devices like the MacBook Air, are pushing for ARM adoption despite legitimate concerns from IT support teams.
“A lot of the change that comes in organizations actually comes from like C class executives who are like, hey, there's this thing called the MacBook Air and it's awesome and you're going to support it.” [11:26]
Rumors of Expanding ARM Options
There are rumors that other companies like Nvidia, MediaTek, and AMD are developing their own ARM-based PC designs, potentially challenging Qualcomm’s dominance. Paul shares insider information suggesting an extension of Qualcomm's exclusivity with Microsoft, hinting at future competition.
“Qualcomm's exclusivity arrangement with Microsoft has actually been extended.” [14:08]
4. Microsoft Copilot Features: Recall and Click to Do
Introduction to Recall
Paul introduces Recall, a new feature integrated with Microsoft's Copilot, designed to capture and manage system snapshots. Initially limited to specific Copilot Plus PCs in the dev channel, Recall allows users to take screenshots that can be analyzed and searched later.
“Recall is sitting here taking screenshots or snapshots of your system.” [25:45]
However, the user experience has been criticized for its intrusive nature, requiring constant re-authentication through Windows Hello, thus disrupting workflow.
“The user experience is terrible, actually. And the biggest problem with it is that anytime you do anything, you have to authenticate with Windows hello.” [66:12]
Click to Do Feature
Alongside Recall, Click to Do is a feature that scans screen content for actionable items, presenting users with options to interact with the detected text. Recently updated to work beyond the confines of Recall, Click to Do aims to provide more versatility across the operating system.
“Now that works everywhere. And there's kind of a fun rippling water, purple and pink animation.” [27:03]
Despite these enhancements, the features are plagued with usability issues that hamper widespread adoption.
“They're like, hey, you really need something, you know, but the way it works, it's like you close the app and you have to authenticate again.” [66:12]
Security Concerns
While Microsoft emphasizes the security aspects of Recall, security researchers remain skeptical, questioning the robustness of the implementation and the actual security benefits.
“And we'll talk about that actually after whatever ad break as well.” [27:03]
5. Microsoft Store and Win32 App Updates
Store-Managing Updates via Winget
Microsoft has updated the Microsoft Store to allow Win32 app developers to opt into a system where the Store manages app updates using Winget. This shift aims to streamline the update process, providing automatic background updates without user intervention.
“If you want to allow the store to update your app, it will do it for you. It uses Winget somehow under the covers.” [35:06]
Benefits and Challenges
Paul praises the initiative for simplifying the update process for developers and users alike, citing reduced manual update prompts. However, concerns linger regarding the security implications and the potential for supply chain attacks.
“Or you have a lot to hand off. It's like as an app developer, I can put my app in the store for free. They don't even have to manage a website. They just have to manage the update infrastructure.” [35:48]
Richard adds that while the concept is sound, practical implementation and security assurances need to be robust to gain trust within the developer community.
“And there's an angle on this about supply chain attacks, but we have no evidence that Microsoft's going to be especially careful for what's in their store.” [36:30]
6. Phone Link App Updates
Microsoft has expanded the Phone Link app to include support for iPhones, though with limited functionality compared to Android integration. New features allow for file sharing over Bluetooth, although group messaging and comprehensive photo sharing remain unsupported.
“But they're adding support for file sharing. So I tried to get this and I haven't. It's one of those CFR type features.” [28:15]
“It's going to work similarly to that feature that they just released in 24H2 for Android phones.” [28:44]
While the updates enhance cross-platform compatibility, user experiences vary, and full feature parity with Android remains elusive.
“You can't go, like once you... when you connect it to a PC, you don't get all your previous conversations.” [29:29]
7. Partnership with Meta: Windows 11 on Quest 3
Microsoft has partnered with Meta to bring the full Windows 11 experience to the Meta Quest 3 VR headsets. This development allows users to access their Windows desktop in a virtual environment, enabling tasks such as browsing, application use, and multitasking through virtual desktops.
“Microsoft announced today they're bringing the full Windows 11 experience to Meta Quest 3 and 3S.” [30:06]
Potential Use Cases and User Experience
Paul speculates that while the integration is innovative, practical use cases in productivity and workflow remain to be fully realized and tested by users. The collaboration signifies Microsoft's ongoing efforts to expand Windows' presence into emerging technologies like virtual reality.
8. Outlook Updates and User Experiences
New Outlook Interface
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the revamped Microsoft Outlook application. The updated interface, built on web technologies, introduces a more streamlined and visually appealing design. However, users express mixed feelings about the changes, particularly regarding personalization and functionality.
“It is pretty nice.” [62:00]
Paul notes that while the new Outlook retains essential features like email, calendar, and contacts, the user experience can be inconsistent, especially for those relying on extensive customization.
“It's actually really nice, it's pretty nice.” [48:42]
Ads and Accessibility
The free version of Outlook now includes advertisements, which are presented as email messages. This move has been met with criticism, as it disrupts the user experience and compromises the professional nature of the application.
“But the problem with this app, the big problem to me is that if you don't have a paid Microsoft 365 account, commercial or consumer, you're going to see ads and those ads will appear as if they were email messages and that's not good.” [48:53]
Additionally, the shift towards a web-based model raises concerns about data privacy and the integration with other browsers, despite Microsoft's efforts to make Outlook more accessible across platforms.
9. Intel's Challenges and Future Speculation
A heated discussion unfolds around Intel's recent corporate changes and the future of the company in the personal computing industry. The resignation of CEO Pat Gelsinger sparks debate on whether Intel can recover from its technical and strategic missteps.
“I think intel might literally have the worst board in the history of big tech.” [78:03]
Paul argues that Intel's inability to innovate and adapt its manufacturing processes, particularly lagging behind competitors like AMD and Qualcomm, signals a decline in its industry dominance.
“Intel as we know it is over.” [79:09]
Richard adds that the board's composition, largely consisting of non-engineers, hampers Intel’s capacity to navigate the complex technological landscape.
“Companies in general tend to have crony boards... but Intel's board is made up now largely of non engineers.” [78:07]
The hosts speculate about possible outcomes, including acquisition by Qualcomm, restructuring, or potential dissolution, painting a grim picture of Intel's trajectory.
“Intel as this force that was 50% of the personal computing industry called Windtel, I think it's over.” [82:12]
10. Game Preservation Efforts
The conversation shifts to the importance of preserving classic games. Paul highlights open-source projects aimed at revitalizing older titles like Half-Life and Tomb Raider, enabling them to run seamlessly on modern hardware with enhanced graphics.
“These projects are making these games work well on modern hardware, upskilled graphics, etc.” [123:00]
Richard appreciates these efforts, acknowledging their role in maintaining the legacy and accessibility of beloved gaming classics.
“It's like you buy the game, you have the actual game, so you’ve paid for it... They’re keeping these older games going.” [123:00]
The hosts emphasize that while these preservation projects are technically challenging, they are vital for the gaming community and cultural heritage.
11. AI in Browsers and Competition
Microsoft's Copilot vs. Google's Gemini
AI integration in web browsers is a central theme, with the hosts discussing Microsoft's Copilot features in Edge and Google's Gemini. They explore the competitive landscape, debating which company is better positioned to leverage AI for enhancing user experience.
“Paul, you have to say, Thread. I know. We've all lost the thread.” [147:56]
Paul asserts that Google has a strategic advantage due to its deep integration with the search engine and vast data resources, positioning Gemini as a formidable competitor to Microsoft's offerings.
“I feel like Google's the one company that has all the parts in place. It's really kind of up to them to not do this.” [116:13]
User Experience and Future Prospects
Leo Laporte demonstrates firsthand the AI capabilities in Apple’s Vision and Google's Gemini, showcasing how current AI models interact with users and integrate with existing web infrastructure. The discussion highlights the potential transformations in how users interact with browsers, moving from traditional navigation to AI-assisted interaction.
“What could go wrong?” [15:44]
Richard expresses enthusiasm for the evolving AI features, though acknowledging the growing pains associated with integrating complex technologies into everyday tools like browsers.
12. Xbox News and Updates
Fortnite’s New 5v5 Shooter Mode
The episode covers Epic Games’ introduction of a new 5v5 first-person shooter mode in Fortnite, marking a shift from its traditional battle royale format. The hosts analyze the potential impact on the gaming community and the technical challenges of scaling the game’s backend to support smaller, more competitive matches.
“It's a very Counter Strike type of game.” [137:38]
Paul notes that the new mode could attract a different segment of gamers, blending elements from other popular shooters to create a unique experience within the Fortnite universe.
iFixit Selling Xbox Series X/S Repair Parts
iFixit’s initiative to sell official repair parts for Xbox Series X and S consoles is another highlight. This moves aligns with the growing trend of hardware repairability and user empowerment in the gaming industry.
“IFixit is selling official Xbox series X and S repair parts.” [136:18]
Richard appreciates the effort to make repairs more accessible, reducing the need for professional interventions and extending the lifespan of gaming hardware.
“This is kind of a big thing in our industry now where you can get like the toolkit and whatever, you know, rights parts...” [136:18]
13. Club Twit Membership and Support
Leo Laporte makes a heartfelt appeal for listeners to join Club Twit, emphasizing its critical role in sustaining the podcast amidst uncertain revenue projections.
“We’re down to some tough times ahead. But the bright light is our club.” [152:00]
Club Twit offers benefits such as ad-free versions of shows, access to exclusive content, and participation in community events within the Discord server. Leo highlights the importance of community support, aiming to reach 5,000 new members by year-end to cover a significant portion of the podcast’s operational costs.
“We expect that some people come in late and so forth. That's happened last year. But really, really, we're down to some tough times ahead.” [152:00]
The hosts encourage listeners to consider Club Twit as both a means of supporting the show and as a valuable resource for exclusive content and community engagement.
14. Game Preservation and Open-Source Projects
Paul Thurrott delves deeper into the significance of preserving classic games through open-source projects. He mentions efforts to maintain and enhance games like Medal of Honor and Tomb Raider, ensuring they remain playable and enjoyable on contemporary systems.
“These projects are making these games work well on modern hardware, upskilled graphics, etc.” [123:00]
The hosts underscore that such initiatives not only preserve gaming history but also allow new generations to experience foundational titles that shaped the gaming landscape.
15. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Segments
As the episode nears its end, the hosts touch upon personal projects and upcoming segments, such as the Ugly Sweater Show, where they plan to don festive attire. They also briefly mention app picks, book recommendations, and community engagement through various platforms.
The episode concludes with a mixture of light-hearted banter, promotional content for sponsors, and a reiteration of the importance of community support through Club Twit.
“Our next show will be next week, actually next week.” [56:57]
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
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Paul Thurrott on Final Patch Tuesday:
“So the final patch Tuesday of 2024.” [03:42]
-
Leo Laporte on Windows Updates Chaos:
“Imagine taking a proactive and this is the key deny by default approach to cybersecurity.” [36:30]
-
Paul Thurrott on Intel’s Future:
“Intel as we know it is over.” [79:09]
-
Richard Campbell on ARM Adoption:
“I just don't see ARM in the Enterprise yet.” [12:37]
-
Paul Thurrott on Game Preservation:
“These projects are making these games work well on modern hardware, upskilled graphics, etc.” [123:00]
-
Leo Laporte on Club Twit Support:
“We need you to participate. My goal before the end of the year, to get 5,000 new members.” [152:00]
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Paul Thurrott on Microsoft’s Copilot Features:
“The user experience is terrible, actually. And the biggest problem with it is that anytime you do anything, you have to authenticate with Windows hello.” [66:12]
Conclusion
This episode of Windows Weekly offers a comprehensive exploration of the current state and future prospects of Microsoft’s Windows ecosystem, the challenges facing Intel, advancements in ARM-based PCs, and the evolving integration of AI in daily computing tasks. The hosts provide insightful commentary on the technical difficulties, strategic missteps, and innovative solutions shaping the technology landscape in late 2024. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of community support through Club Twit to sustain ongoing podcast production amidst financial uncertainties.
For listeners seeking in-depth analysis of Microsoft products, enterprise IT challenges, and the intersection of gaming and technology, this episode serves as a valuable resource, blending technical expertise with engaging discussion.