Windows Weekly Episode 911: "A Back-End Guy - Recall Impressions, Copilot Vision Preview, x86's Future"

Release Date: December 11, 2024

Hosts: Leo Laporte, Paul Thurrott, and Richard Campbell

In Episode 911 of Windows Weekly, the hosts dive deep into the latest developments at Microsoft, exploring the newly released Recall feature, previewing Copilot Vision, and discussing the future of x86 architecture amidst the rising prominence of ARM-based solutions. Additionally, they touch upon significant AI advancements, updates from Apple and Google, and some intriguing gaming news.

1. Windows Update Chaos in 24H2

The episode begins with Paul Thurrott addressing the tumultuous experience many users have had with Microsoft's Windows 24H2 update. Initially, there were concerns about the reliability of the new update, but Paul clarifies that the issues were mainly due to users being on the dev channel inadvertently.

• Paul Thurrott [03:42]: "This is the final patch Tuesday of 2024."

Despite overcoming the initial hurdles, Paul warns that the chaos surrounding Windows updates is likely to continue into 2025, citing the complexity introduced by multiple update branches tailored for different PC configurations.

• Richard Campbell [06:16]: "There are three different branches in stable."

2. ARM vs. x86: The Future of PC Architecture

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the ongoing rivalry between ARM and x86 architectures. Paul expresses optimism about Qualcomm's Snapdragon-based PCs, highlighting their reliability, security, and impressive battery life.

• Paul Thurrott [12:32]: "Qualcomm's exclusivity arrangement with Microsoft has actually been extended."

However, he notes the challenges enterprises face in migrating to ARM, such as driver compatibility and specific industry needs. Richard Campbell concurs, emphasizing the reluctance within IT departments to transition amidst the existing update turmoil.

• Richard Campbell [06:16]: "There are three different branches in stable."

3. Microsoft's Copilot and AI Integrations

The hosts delve into Microsoft's Copilot, critiquing its user experience and the frequent UI changes. Paul laments the disruptive authentication process with Windows Hello, which hampers seamless workflow.

• Paul Thurrott [19:07]: "It's like the UI itself is kind of amateurish."

They also discuss the rapid rollout of Copilot features across all Insider channels, raising concerns about stability and user satisfaction.

4. Outlook Updates and User Experience

Recent updates to Microsoft Outlook receive a mixed review. While Paul acknowledges improvements in performance and UI scaling, he criticizes persistent issues like the lack of comprehensive settings synchronization across devices.

• Paul Thurrott [39:35]: "I've been using Outlook and I don't like it... but it's getting better."

Richard highlights the introduction of ads for users without a paid Microsoft 365 account, pointing out the shift in Microsoft's monetization strategy.

• Richard Campbell [28:15]: "If you don't have a paid Microsoft 365 account, commercial or consumer, you're going to see ads."

5. Intel's Decline and the Future of x86

A heated debate ensues about Intel's declining market position and the future of the x86 architecture. Paul boldly states that "Intel as we know it is over," attributing the decline to strategic missteps and leadership issues.

• Paul Thurrott [79:09]: "Intel as we know it is over."

Richard adds that Intel's board, composed largely of non-engineers, has failed to steer the company effectively amidst increasing competition from ARM-based solutions.

• Richard Campbell [78:30]: "Their board is made up now largely of non-engineers."

6. Gaming News: Fortnite's Five by Five and Xbox Developments

The conversation shifts to gaming, with a focus on Fortnite's new "five by five" game mode—a more focused, smaller-scale battle royale experience. Paul notes the technical challenges of scaling game servers for smaller matches.

• Paul Thurrott [136:45]: "It's in early access today."

Additionally, they discuss Microsoft's ongoing efforts with Xbox hardware, including partnerships for more efficient game streaming and the integration of x86 features into various gaming platforms.

7. Club Twit and Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, the hosts promote their Club Twit membership, emphasizing its importance for sustaining the show. Leo mentions that while 12,000 members have joined, there's a pressing need for more support to cover operational costs.

• Leo Laporte [153:51]: "12,000 people have joined the club, which is fantastic."

8. Product Recommendations and Tips

Paul shares a tip about the deprecation of "Suggested Actions" in Windows 11, explaining that it's a rarely used feature being phased out in future updates.

• Paul Thurrott [155:56]: "If you write a phone number or a date in like Notepad and then highlight it... it's going away."

Notable Quotes:

• Paul Thurrott [03:42]: "This is the final patch Tuesday of 2024."
• Richard Campbell [06:16]: "There are three different branches in stable."
• Paul Thurrott [19:07]: "It's like the UI itself is kind of amateurish."
• Paul Thurrott [79:09]: "Intel as we know it is over."
• Richard Campbell [28:15]: "If you don't have a paid Microsoft 365 account, commercial or consumer, you're going to see ads."

Conclusion

In this episode, Windows Weekly provides a comprehensive analysis of Microsoft's current strategies, the evolving landscape of PC architecture, and the integration of AI into everyday tools. The hosts offer candid insights and critiques, making it a must-listen for tech enthusiasts keen on understanding the future direction of one of the world's most influential companies.

For more insights and in-depth discussions, tune in to Windows Weekly live every Wednesday at 2:00 PM Eastern. Join Club Twit to support the show and gain access to exclusive content and community events.