Windows Weekly (Episode WW 938: When Will Then Be Now? - Copilot's Struggles Against ChatGPT)

Release Date: June 26, 2025

In this comprehensive episode of Windows Weekly, hosts Leo Laporte, Paul Thurrott, and Richard Campbell delve into the latest developments surrounding Microsoft's Windows ecosystem, the integration of AI technologies, and recent happenings within the Xbox division. The discussion also features an insightful segment on South African whiskey, blending tech talk with cultural exploration.

1. Windows 10 End of Life and Extended Security Updates

As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life in October 2025, Paul Thurrott introduces Microsoft's Extended Security Updates (ESU) program. This initiative allows users to receive security patches beyond the official support window.

• Cost Implications: Businesses are expected to incur significant costs, with prices set to double annually. For individuals, Microsoft offers two free methods to secure an additional year without the standard $30 fee:
  • Redeeming Microsoft Reward Points: Users can exchange 1,000 Bing rewards points for ESU access ([Paul Thurrott, 04:03]).
  • Using the Microsoft Backup App: By backing up their PC settings to the cloud, individuals can sync them to a new device later ([Paul Thurrott, 04:16]).

Notable Quote:

"This is just that little bone they're going to throw people. You know, it's a way to get around the 30 bucks."
— Paul Thurrott (04:25)

2. Windows 11 and Local AI Integration: Copilot's Role and Limitations

The conversation shifts to Windows 11's evolving AI capabilities, particularly the integration of Copilot, Microsoft's AI assistant designed to enhance user interaction with the operating system.

• Local AI Models: Unlike cloud-based AI like ChatGPT, Copilot utilizes small, task-specific language models running locally on specialized hardware (referred to as Copilot Plus PCs).
• Hardware Requirements: Effective performance of local AI models demands robust hardware, including advanced GPUs and ample RAM, making these features accessible primarily to users with high-end systems ([Paul Thurrott, 09:46]).

Notable Quote:

"I'm not sure who the market is here we're talking about. Right. I mean, the people who are listening to the show, who are technical enough, would have done this before if they wanted to."
— Paul Thurrott (26:25)

3. Updates from the Windows Insider Program: New Features and Testing

Paul Thurrott provides an overview of recent updates within the Windows Insider Program, highlighting new features being tested before their official release.

• Recall Homepage Overhaul: A redesigned interface aims to improve user experience by allowing browsing snapshots by application, simplifying the retrieval of past activities (31:04).
• Customizable Hardware Indicators: Users can now choose the placement of overlays for brightness, volume, and other settings, offering greater personalization (31:08).

Notable Quote:

"These things keep improving and they keep getting smaller and you keep getting smaller models that can do the work of bigger models."
— Paul Thurrott (18:51)

4. Alexa and AI Integration Struggles Against ChatGPT

The hosts explore the challenges faced by Amazon's Alexa in competing with advanced AI models like ChatGPT.

• User Experience Issues: Alexa's attempts to perform tasks such as ordering food or booking services often result in unsatisfactory interactions, highlighting its limitations compared to more sophisticated AI like ChatGPT (79:07).
• Future Prospects: While Alexa is gaining new integrations, its inability to seamlessly handle complex requests may hinder its competitiveness in the AI assistant market (81:22).

Notable Quote:

"This is the most general audience you're going to get. This is."
— Leo Laporte (79:57)

5. Xbox Division News: Layoffs and Future Directions

The episode addresses recent announcements regarding layoffs within Microsoft's Xbox division, signaling significant changes ahead.

• Layoffs Details: Originally slated for immediate implementation, layoffs were postponed to early July 2025, aligning with Microsoft's fiscal year start. The extent of these layoffs affects various sectors, including sales and game development teams (95:11).
• Strategic Shifts: Microsoft's focus is shifting towards integrating Xbox more closely with the Windows PC platform, enhancing features like Instant Resume in collaboration with AMD to improve gaming performance and user experience (95:35).

Notable Quote:

"Now why does God hate us, Paul?"
— Leo Laporte (00:40)

6. Whiskey Segment: South African Whiskey – History and Tasting

In a departure from tech topics, Richard Campbell introduces a segment on South African whiskey, offering listeners a deep dive into its history, production, and tasting notes.

• Historical Context: The emergence of whiskey in South Africa dates back to the late 19th century, with early distilleries like Ed Erskabrekin laying the groundwork despite significant challenges, including wars and economic shifts.
• Modern Production: Contemporary distillers, such as Draymond's High Veld Single Malt, employ traditional methods combined with local innovations. The use of Bordeaux casks and unique yeast blends contributes to distinct flavor profiles.
• Tasting Notes: The whiskey discussed boasts a rich color and a blend of fruit flavors, including raisin and apricot, with a smooth finish at 43% ABV. Campbell praises its quality, noting its originality and impressive craftsmanship despite the limited production (146:27).

Notable Quote:

"So if you're down there, I would grab one. And there's a question here about whether the barrels are reused."
— Richard Campbell (149:03)

Conclusion

Episode WW 938 of Windows Weekly offers a multifaceted exploration of Microsoft's strategic moves in the Windows ecosystem, the growing pains of AI integration, and internal shifts within the Xbox division. Coupled with a cultural excursion into South African whiskey, the hosts provide listeners with both technical insights and engaging storytelling. As Microsoft navigates the complexities of supporting aging software while advancing into AI-driven futures, the episode underscores the balance between innovation and user accessibility.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

1. Paul Thurrott (04:25):

   "This is just that little bone they're going to throw people. You know, it's a way to get around the 30 bucks."

2. Paul Thurrott (26:25):

   "I'm not sure who the market is here we're talking about. Right. I mean, the people who are listening to the show, who are technical enough, would have done this before if they wanted to."

3. Leo Laporte (79:57):

   "This is the most general audience you're going to get. This is."

4. Paul Thurrott (18:51):

   "These things keep improving and they keep getting smaller and you keep getting smaller models that can do the work of bigger models."

5. Leo Laporte (00:40):

   "Now why does God hate us, Paul?"

Note: This summary excludes advertisements, intros, outros, and non-content sections to focus on the core discussions of the episode.