Windows Weekly Episode WW 920: "Celebrity Condiments - Quantum Processing Unit, Edge 132, Rust"

Release Date: February 19, 2025
Hosts: Leo Laporte, Paul Thurrott, Richard Campbell
Recorded: Wednesday, February 19, 2025

1. Personal Updates and Opening Remarks

The episode kicks off with the trio exchanging personal updates. Leo shares his recent experience at a mineral show in Tucson, joking about feeling "washed in mineral vibes" ([01:30]). The conversation sets a lighthearted tone as they reconnect after a week's absence.

2. Windows Insider Builds and Upcoming Updates

Paul Thurrott delves into the latest Windows Insider builds, highlighting three recent updates, including the most recent release preview build of the next 24H2 cumulative update released just the day before ([02:25]). He notes:

“I have the battery changes. It’s green now when it’s charging… introducing some color in there makes some sense.” ([03:08])

Paul discusses minor UI enhancements, such as color-coded battery indicators and updates to the system tray icons, which transition from the Windows 10 aesthetic to a more modern look. Richard adds that while these updates are small, they contribute to the overall user experience.

3. Microsoft's Strategy and AI Integration in Windows

The hosts shift focus to Microsoft's broader strategy, particularly its integration of AI into Windows. Paul Thurrott expresses skepticism about Microsoft's communication and strategic direction:

“Microsoft is in a state of flux generally. Because of all the AI stuff… I don’t have a real sense of central strategy filtering down to the troops.” ([10:35])

Richard Campbell concurs, suggesting that internal team turnover and limited documentation might be causing these strategic ambiguities. They discuss the evolving nature of AI features in Windows, acknowledging improvements but questioning the overarching purpose of Windows 11 amidst these changes.

4. Deprecating Features in Windows and Edge UI Enhancements

Paul Thurrott explains Microsoft's recent move to deprecate certain Windows features, emphasizing the distinction between deprecation and removal:

“Deprecate means this feature is no longer being updated and it will be removed in a future version.” ([17:15])

He specifically mentions the deprecation of "Location History," clarifying that it was tied to the now-removed Cortana feature and does not affect other location-based services like "Find My PC." Additionally, Paul highlights significant improvements in Microsoft Edge's UI:

“Web UI 2.0 could be anywhere from 40 to 75% faster… you'll notice it.” ([21:18])

The trio acknowledges the tangible performance boosts in Edge, validating Microsoft's claim of enhanced UI responsiveness.

5. Evolution of Clipchamp and Video Editing Tools

Paul Thurrott shares his experience with Microsoft's video editing tool, Clipchamp, noting its transformation from a consumer-friendly app to a more professional-grade editor without increasing complexity:

“The video editing and the timeline, the ability to group assets… it’s becoming more professional looking.” ([25:30])

He praises the app's synchronization capabilities, especially useful for those working across multiple devices, while Richard Campbell and Leo Laporte discuss its growing features and potential to rival more complex editors like DaVinci Resolve.

6. Studio Equipment Upgrades and Content Creation

The conversation transitions to studio equipment, focusing on Rodecaster and Rodecaster Duo:

Richard Campbell praises the Rodecaster Duo for its capabilities in both audio and video work:

“It took over for the Atem Mini Pro and the P8… it’s a very powerful device.” ([27:17])

Leo Laporte shares his satisfaction with the Rodecaster Duo, highlighting its user-friendly interface and effectiveness in managing live recordings. They reflect on the evolution of studio setups, appreciating how modern tools have made high-quality content creation more accessible.

7. Quantum Computing Breakthroughs and Microsoft's Announcement

A significant portion of the episode centers on quantum computing. Paul Thurrott recounts a past experience with Microsoft's 2017 quantum computing announcement at Ignite, expressing his initial confusion:

“45 minutes later, I walked out of it like I’d been punched in the face repeatedly.” ([45:34])

He summarizes Microsoft's latest quantum computing breakthrough, focusing on their development of topological qubits:

“Quantum computers aren't going to use bits… Qubits can store much more information… Microsoft and other companies are trying to scale with stability.” ([47:14])

Richard Campbell and Leo Laporte engage in a lively discussion about the implications of Microsoft's advancements, debating the practicality and future applications of quantum computing. They touch upon the challenges of scaling qubits and the potential for quantum computers to revolutionize fields like encryption and AI.

8. Rust in Software Development and Kernel Enhancements

The hosts discuss the increasing adoption of the Rust programming language in system-level software. Paul Thurrott highlights ExpressVPN's recent transition to Rust for their Lightway VPN protocol, citing Rust's memory safety and performance benefits:

“Rust is memory safe. It’s more secure than C… it's more efficient.” ([41:31])

They delve into Rust's role in enhancing software security and efficiency, noting its growing popularity among developers. Richard Campbell relates this trend to similar shifts in the Linux kernel community, where Rust is gradually being integrated to replace vulnerable C code.

9. AI Integration in Microsoft 365 and User Experience

Paul Thurrott critiques Microsoft's AI implementations in their software suite, particularly Microsoft Editor and Copilot:

“Microsoft’s grammar functionality in Word is still horrible… Language Tool works better and it works everywhere.” ([62:07])

He contrasts this with alternative tools like Language Tool, praising its versatility and effectiveness across different applications. The hosts explore the broader impact of AI tools on productivity, emphasizing their potential to streamline tasks and enhance user efficiency. Richard Campbell adds that while AI features can sometimes be intrusive, they offer substantial benefits when used appropriately.

10. AI Advancements, Models, and User Interactions

The discussion shifts to the rapid evolution of AI models, particularly large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Grok. Leo Laporte and Paul Thurrott explore the complexities and challenges of keeping up with the constant influx of new AI capabilities:

“Every time someone comes up with a new AI model, I'm going to write about it… there’s a new model every two seconds now.” ([97:04])

They analyze the advancements in AI reasoning and reinforcement learning, debating the practical applications and limitations of these models. Richard Campbell offers insights into how AI can surpass human capabilities in specific domains, likening it to AlphaGo's performance in mastering Go.

11. Xbox Series Console Updates and Market Performance

The trio examines Microsoft's recent system update for Xbox consoles, which allows support for larger external hard drives. Richard Campbell clarifies that while larger drives are now supported, practical usage remains limited due to the massive storage capacity:

“Hard drive will create partitions at a maximum of 16 terabytes… put a 16 terabyte in.” ([123:01])

Paul Thurrott and Leo Laporte reflect on the Xbox's market performance, noting surprising sales figures for the Xbox Series X and S amidst industry challenges. They compare Microsoft's strategy with Sony's, highlighting Sony's continued dominance in the console market despite similar hurdles.

12. Celebrity Condiments: Crystal Head Vodka and Industry Trends

Paul Thurrott introduces the segment on "Celebrity Condiments" by discussing Crystal Head Vodka, co-founded by Dan Aykroyd. He details its production process and market positioning:

“It's made at the Hiram Walker Distillery… nickel, no additives whatsoever.” ([153:28])

They explore the trend of celebrities launching their own alcohol brands, comparing Crystal Head Vodka to other ventures like Ryan Reynolds' Aviation Gin. Richard Campbell and Leo Laporte debate the authenticity and business models behind these celebrity-endorsed products, recognizing their commercial success while critiquing their quality and branding strategies.

13. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Segments

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts promote their Club Twit membership, encouraging listeners to support the podcast through various benefits. They briefly touch upon upcoming content, including in-depth discussions on AI and its integration into daily life.

Notable Quotes:

• Leo Laporte on Windows Updates:
  “Introducing some color in there makes some sense.” ([03:08])

• Paul Thurrott on Microsoft's AI Strategy:
  “Microsoft is in a state of flux generally. Because of all the AI stuff… I don’t have a real sense of central strategy filtering down to the troops.” ([10:35])

• Paul Thurrott on Quantum Computing:
  “Quantum computers aren’t going to use bits… Qubits can store much more information… Microsoft and other companies are trying to scale with stability.” ([47:14])

• Paul Thurrott on Rust Adoption:
  “Rust is memory safe. It’s more secure than C… it's more efficient.” ([41:31])

• Paul Thurrott on AI Tools in Microsoft 365:
  “Microsoft’s grammar functionality in Word is still horrible… Language Tool works better and it works everywhere.” ([62:07])

• Leo Laporte on AI Model Proliferation:
  “Every time someone comes up with a new AI model, I'm going to write about it… there’s a new model every two seconds now.” ([97:04])

Conclusions and Insights:

• Microsoft's Evolving Strategy: The integration of AI and Rust into Windows signifies Microsoft's attempt to modernize and secure its ecosystem, though communication and strategic clarity remain areas of concern.

• Quantum Computing's Future: Microsoft's quantum computing advancements, particularly in developing stable topological qubits, hold promise for future breakthroughs but face significant scaling challenges.

• AI's Dual Impact: While AI tools like Copilot and Language Tool enhance productivity and streamline tasks, user skepticism and resistance persist, highlighting the need for better education and user experience design.

• Celebrity-Endorsed Products: The proliferation of celebrity-branded alcohols reflects broader marketing trends, emphasizing the balance between authenticity and commercial success.

• Gaming Industry Dynamics: Sony's robust performance in the console market contrasts with Microsoft's strategies, suggesting differing approaches to consumer engagement and product updates.

• Adoption of Rust: The shift towards Rust in system-level programming underscores a broader industry trend prioritizing security and performance, with applications ranging from VPNs to operating systems.

This episode of Windows Weekly provides an in-depth exploration of Microsoft's latest developments in Windows updates, AI integration, and quantum computing, while also touching on industry trends like Rust adoption and celebrity-branded products. The hosts offer critical perspectives on these topics, encouraging listeners to engage thoughtfully with the rapidly evolving tech landscape.