TechLinked Podcast Summary
Episode: Windows 365 Link, Google Might Sell Chrome + more!
Host: Linus Media Group
Release Date: November 21, 2024
In this episode of TechLinked, the hosts delve into a variety of significant developments in the tech and gaming industries. From Microsoft's latest hardware innovations to major legal battles involving tech giants, this episode covers it all with insightful commentary and engaging discussions.
Windows 365 Link and Microsoft's Latest Announcements
The episode kicks off with a deep dive into Microsoft's recent announcements at the Ignite 2024 conference. Microsoft unveiled the Windows 365 Link, a new Cloud PC device designed to streamline enterprise computing.
James introduces the device:
"At Microsoft's Ignite 2024 conference kickoff yesterday, the company introduced the Windows 365 Link, a Mac mini looking PC with a bunch of ports for 349. Wow. Cheap." [00:30]
Key Features:
- Design: Resembles a Mac mini, compact with multiple ports.
- Purpose: Categorized as a thin client intended for enterprise use, serving as a terminal for cloud or network computing.
- Pricing: Priced at $349, making it an affordable option for businesses looking to implement cloud-based solutions.
Microsoft 365 Rebranding:
Microsoft is rebranding its Office suite to Microsoft 365, incorporating Copilot AI features across its applications. James explains:
"The app icons are not only getting little Copilot badges, the Microsoft 365 logo is being changed into the Copilot logo with a little M365 badge." [00:30]
New Features:
- Customizable Copilot AI Agents: Integrated into Microsoft Teams for functions like note-taking during calls and live audio translation.
- Windows 11 Enhancements: Introduction of Microsoft 365 companions, shortcuts for contacts, files, or calendars pinned to the taskbar, enhancing user accessibility.
- Windows Resiliency Initiative: Strengthening system security to prevent breaches like the infamous CrowdStrike incident and enabling Windows 11 Enterprise users to apply hot patches without rebooting.
Meta Quest 3 and Cloud PC Integration
Shifting focus to virtual reality, Meta Quest 3 and 3S headsets are set to receive a significant update. In December, users will gain access to a public preview that allows streaming of Windows 11 from either a local or cloud PC within a 3D space.
James highlights the innovation:
"Meta Quest 3 and 3S headsets will be getting a public preview in December, allowing users to use Windows 11 streamed from either a local PC or a cloud PC in 3D space." [00:30]
Potential Uses:
- Flexible Workstations: Users can set up multiple virtual monitors and incorporate Bluetooth keyboards and mice to create a versatile workspace anywhere, including public places like Starbucks.
DOJ's Antitrust Actions Against Google: The Case of Chrome
A major highlight of the episode is the U.S. Department of Justice's (DOJ) move against Google, targeting its dominance in the web browser market.
James reports:
"The U.S. department of justice is certain now that it wants to knock Chrome off the Google tree and has asked Judge Amit Mehta to force Google to sell off the world's most popular web browser, Chrome." [00:30]
Implications:
- Legal Battle: DOJ's action is part of a broader antitrust case accusing Google of monopolistic practices, especially concerning Android and Google Search.
- Google's Stance: The tech giant argues that the DOJ's agenda would harm consumers, developers, and American technological leadership, stating:
"The DOJ continues to push a radical agenda and that putting its thumb on the scale in these ways would harm consumers, developers and American technological leadership." [00:30]
Industry Reactions:
James humorously speculates on the complexity of the situation:
"Does Google think they're being forced to sell Chrome to China or something? Look, we get TikTok, you get Chrome. Oh this is a bad deal." [00:30]
Microsoft Game Pass Ultimate Enhancements
Microsoft announced new features for Game Pass Ultimate subscribers, enhancing the gaming experience by allowing users to stream games they own, even if they're not part of the Game Pass catalog.
James details the update:
"Microsoft is allowing Game Pass ultimate subscribers to stream some games that they own, even if that game isn't part of the Game Pass catalog." [00:30]
Benefits:
- Expanded Access: Users can stream their personal game library without needing to install them on their Xbox consoles.
- Competitive Edge: This feature mirrors Sony's recent updates to their PS Portal handheld, promoting a more flexible gaming ecosystem.
Apple Security Vulnerabilities Addressed
The hosts briefly touch upon important security updates from Apple, urging listeners to update their devices promptly.
James warns:
"Cupertino has issued a patch for multiple vulnerabilities. It's not a virus because biologically Macs don't get those." [00:30]
Vulnerabilities:
- Affected Areas: Flaws in JavaScript, Core, and WebKit.
- Exploitation: Actively being exploited on Intel-based Macs, emphasizing the need for immediate updates.
Valve's Upcoming Controllers: Steam Controller 2 and Roy
Valve is rumored to release successors to their original Steam Controller, aiming to enhance the gaming experience on TVs and virtual reality platforms.
James shares:
"A successor to Valve's Steam Controller may be on the way soon, according to Valve data miner Brad Lynch, who says the Steam Controller 2, codenamed Ibex, is being tooled for mass production." [00:30]
New Models:
- Steam Controller 2 (Ibex): Expected to revitalize mouse and keyboard-style gameplay on larger screens.
- Roy: A separate controller design intended for use with Valve's rumored Deckard headset, targeting the virtual reality market.
James expresses hope for their success:
"I can only hope the new one won't be lost in time like tears and rain." [00:30]
Sony's Potential Acquisition of Kadokawa
In a surprising move, Sony is reportedly in talks to acquire Kadokawa, the parent company of renowned game developers like FromSoftware, the creators of Elden Ring, Dark Souls, and Sekiro.
James states:
"Sony is in talks to acquire the parent company of Fromsoftware, makers of Elden Ring, the Dark Souls series and Sekiro, first reported by Reuters and then confirmed by the company itself, called Kadokawa." [00:30]
Significance:
- Market Impact: This acquisition would position Sony as a leading force in the gaming industry, potentially rivaling giants like Valve and Nintendo.
- Industry Expert Opinion: Former Blizzard boss Mike Ybarra views this as one of the top acquisitions in gaming history, second only to hypothetical purchases of companies like Valve or Nintendo.
USC Students Break Altitude Record with Aftershock 2 Rocket
The episode concludes with a feel-good story about USC students who have set a new altitude record for non-governmental, non-commercial entities by sending the Aftershock 2 rocket to 470,000 feet, surpassing the previous record of 380,000 feet set in 2004.
James applauds their achievement:
"A group of USC students have broken the altitude record for non governmental non commercial entities sending the Aftershock 2 rocket to a height of 470,000ft beating the previous record of 380,000ft set back in 2004 by the civilian space exploration team." [00:30]
Highlights:
- Innovation: Demonstrates the ingenuity and determination of student-led space exploration initiatives.
- Community Impact: Showcases the potential for academic institutions to contribute to advancements in aerospace technology.
James adds a humorous touch:
"I really just wanted to have this in here to say good job students and because I like imagining Jeff Bezos yelling about how these kids built a record breaking rocket in a cave with a box of scraps." [00:30]
Closing Remarks
James wraps up the episode with a nod to the behind-the-scenes efforts:
"We build these videos in a cave with a box of scraps three times a week. So come back on Friday for more tech news." [00:30]
The episode of TechLinked offers a comprehensive overview of the latest happenings in tech and gaming, providing listeners with valuable insights and entertaining discussions. Whether it's groundbreaking hardware releases, significant legal battles, or inspirational student achievements, this episode ensures that you're well-informed about the current state of the tech world.