Podcast Title: All TWiT.tv Shows (Audio)
Episode: Windows Weekly 939: The House Hippo
Release Date: July 3, 2025
Hosts: Leo Laporte, Paul Thurot, Richard Campbell

Introduction

In this engaging episode of Windows Weekly, hosts Leo Laporte, Paul Thurot, and Richard Campbell delve into significant developments within Microsoft, the latest Windows updates, and the expanding influence of AI in technology. The discussion is both informative and entertaining, providing listeners with in-depth analysis and firsthand insights.

Microsoft Layoffs and AI Strategy

The episode opens with a somber discussion about potential layoffs at Microsoft, rumored to affect approximately 9,000 employees. Paul Thurot elaborates on the situation, highlighting the company's strategic shift towards AI-driven efficiency.

• Paul Thurot [03:50]: "There is nothing there of that note."

The hosts express concern over the vague communication from Microsoft's leadership, particularly Phil Spencer’s email regarding the layoffs. They speculate that the layoffs may be part of a broader strategy to integrate AI technologies, thereby reducing the need for a larger workforce.

Paul further explains the context behind the layoffs, mentioning previous rounds in May and earlier in the year, emphasizing the significant impact on Microsoft's workforce compared to other tech giants like Apple.

• Richard Campbell [11:01]: "It doesn't make sense. Right now their market cap is $3.7 trillion."

New Windows 11 Version 25 H2

Transitioning to Windows updates, the hosts discuss the release of Windows 11 version 25 H2. Unlike previous major updates, 25 H2 is positioned as an "enablement package," aligning features across different update streams more seamlessly.

• Paul Thurot [28:09]: "The next version of Windows will be Windows 11 version 25H2."

They explore the user interface changes, such as the redesigned search box with exaggerated rounded corners, which received mixed reviews for its aesthetics.

Leo mentions the ongoing improvements to the Windows Backup app, aiming to facilitate smoother PC migrations, especially from Windows 10 to Windows 11.

Microsoft Copilot on Mac

A significant highlight is the introduction of Microsoft Copilot on Mac. The hosts discuss its availability through the Microsoft 365 Copilot app, primarily intended for work and school accounts. While integrated into Office applications, Paul expresses skepticism about its necessity for casual users.

AI's Impact on Development and Productivity

The conversation shifts to the broader implications of AI in software development. The hosts discuss tools like GitHub Copilot, which dramatically increase coding speed but also present challenges related to code quality and dependency.

• Paul Thurot [15:02]: "The problem with AI is not that it's never going to get there, but just that if you start to see good results and then you drop your defenses and stop challenging it and you just accept what it does and that's when it's going to bite you in the butt."

Richard Campbell adds that while AI tools like Copilot enhance productivity, they require skilled oversight to ensure the generated code is accurate and secure.

Passkeys and Security Management

Passkeys emerge as a critical topic, with detailed discussions on their implementation and integration with password managers such as Bitwarden and 1Password. The hosts debate the balance between security and convenience, highlighting current inconsistencies in passkey systems across different platforms.

• Paul Thurot [56:12]: "It's always this balance between convenience and true security."

They explore the challenges users face when recovering passkeys and the importance of having multiple authentication methods to safeguard accounts effectively.

Web Browsers and AI Integration

Leo and Paul examine the latest updates to Microsoft Edge, including the integration of Copilot into the search functionality and new tab page. While these features aim to enhance user experience, some users find the changes intrusive.

Paul criticizes the aesthetic alterations, such as the search box's new shape, which he finds unappealing.

• Paul Thurot [34:10]: "You don't like the search boxes change shape... it's terrible looking."

The discussion also touches on alternative browsers like Arc, which are reimagining the browsing experience with AI-driven features, offering a contrast to Edge's more conservative approach.

Xbox and Gaming Developments

A significant portion of the episode focuses on recent moves within Microsoft's gaming division. The closure of game studios like the Initiative, which was developing titles such as Perfect Dark and Ever Wild, marks a strategic pivot in Microsoft's gaming strategy amidst ongoing layoffs.

• Richard Campbell [109:54]: "This one was a game, right?"

The hosts speculate on the future of the Halo franchise under the newly renamed Halo Studios, formerly known as 343 Industries. They anticipate announcements related to new Halo titles and discuss the implications for cross-platform gaming and Game Pass offerings.

Canadian Whisky Segment

In a delightful departure from tech, the hosts feature a segment on Alberta Distillers and their exceptional 23-year-old rare batch whiskey. Paul Thurot provides an in-depth exploration of the distillation process, emphasizing the challenges and uniqueness of producing 100% rye whiskey.

• Paul Thurot [130:57]: "They're famous for making true hundred percent rye."

Richard Campbell adds historical context, explaining how Prohibition severely impacted rye whiskey production and how Alberta Distillers has pioneered methods to overcome these challenges, maintaining high-quality standards despite higher production costs.

Quantum Computing with Azure CTO

The conversation briefly touches on advancements in quantum computing, referencing insights shared by the Azure CTO. They discuss Microsoft's focus on cloud-based quantum solutions tailored for specific large-scale customers, highlighting the niche yet impactful nature of these developments.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts reflecting on the intertwining paths of technology, AI, and business strategies. They emphasize the continuous evolution within Microsoft and the broader tech landscape, urging listeners to stay informed and adaptable in the face of rapid changes.

Notable Quotes

• Paul Thurot [03:50]: "There is nothing there of that note."
• Richard Campbell [11:01]: "It doesn't make sense. Right now their market cap is $3.7 trillion."
• Paul Thurot [28:09]: "The next version of Windows will be Windows 11 version 25H2."
• Paul Thurot [15:02]: "The problem with AI is not that it's never going to get there, but just that if you start to see good results and then you drop your defenses and stop challenging it and you just accept what it does and that's when it's going to bite you in the butt."
• Paul Thurot [56:12]: "It's always this balance between convenience and true security."
• Paul Thurot [34:10]: "You don't like the search boxes change shape... it's terrible looking."
• Paul Thurot [130:57]: "They're famous for making true hundred percent rye."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions and insights from Windows Weekly Episode 939, providing a clear and engaging overview for those who haven't tuned in.