According to The Verge, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella believes the future of computing involves AI agents taking over many tasks currently done by users, with Microsoft embedding these agents throughout Windows starting with the taskbar. This comes alongside Google’s launch of Gemini 3, which the hosts discuss as potentially giving Google a lead in the AI race. In antitrust news, Judge Boasberg ruled that Meta is not a monopoly, delivering a smart opinion that includes Greek philosophy references. The episode also covers Matter 1.5, MS NOW’s rebrand, and the Boox Palma 2 Pro’s screen in a packed lightning round segment.
Microsoft’s Agent Push
Here’s the thing about Microsoft’s agent strategy: it feels like they’re trying to fundamentally change how we interact with computers. And honestly, after the Windows 8 debacle, you’d think they’d be more cautious about radical interface changes. But Nadella seems convinced that agents are the next big platform shift. I’m skeptical though – do people really want their computers making decisions for them? It reminds me of Clippy, but on steroids and actually useful. The question is whether users will embrace this or see it as Microsoft overstepping boundaries again.
Google’s Gemini Moment
Now Google’s Gemini 3 launch is interesting timing. While Microsoft is embedding AI into the operating system, Google is pushing ahead with what they’re calling their best model yet. But here’s what I’m wondering: is Google actually building a lead, or are they just playing catch-up after their early stumbles? The AI race feels like it’s accelerating faster than anyone predicted, and Google has the resources to stay in it long-term. Still, Microsoft’s integration advantage with Windows can’t be ignored – they have distribution that Google would kill for.
Meta’s Antitrust Win
So Meta gets a big win in court, with Judge Boasberg basically saying they’re not a monopoly. That’s surprising given how much attention the case has gotten. The judge’s opinion apparently includes some Greek philosophy, which honestly sounds more thoughtful than your typical legal ruling. But let’s be real – this isn’t over. Regulators aren’t going to just walk away from one of the biggest tech companies in the world. The appeals will come, and the political pressure will continue. Still, it’s a significant victory for Zuckerberg and crew at a time when they really needed one.
The Broader Shift
Looking at all these developments together, what strikes me is how much the tech landscape is changing. We’re moving from apps to agents, from clear market leaders to more fluid competition, and from straightforward antitrust cases to more nuanced legal battles. Basically, everything that felt settled in tech five years ago is now up for grabs again. And for businesses relying on stable computing platforms, this uncertainty creates real challenges. When the fundamental ways we interact with technology are in flux, it affects everything from industrial panel PCs to consumer software. The companies that navigate this transition best will likely dominate the next decade.
