Windows Weekly (Audio) WW 947: Hallucinated Clown Shoes - Microsoft v. protesters, round 3. Or 4. Or something
Aug 27, 2025
Chris Hoffman, a freelance tech writer and creator of the Windows Read Me newsletter, dives into Microsoft's recent protests at Building 34, highlighting employee activism against the company's technological ties to geopolitical conflicts. They explore advancements in AI image editing with Google's Gemini and the nostalgic remastering of Gears of War. The discussion also touches on the complexities of Windows user access features, Bluetooth audio improvements, and the challenges Microsoft faces in a rapidly evolving tech landscape and employee expectations.
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Building 34 Occupation At Microsoft
- A small group of Microsoft employees and ex-employees occupied Building 34 and refused to leave, forcing Microsoft to call police and make arrests.
- The protesters targeted offices of senior leaders like Satya Nadella and Brad Smith to press Microsoft to stop selling Azure to Israel.
Microsoft's Public Stance On Employee Protests
- Microsoft says it investigated claims its tech was used for lethal targeting and found no evidence, while remaining sympathetic to employee concerns.
- The company balances allowing on-campus protest with enforcing the law when actions become disruptive or illegal.
Evidence Matters In Corporate Protests
- If protesters have evidence, publish it: employees claiming misuse should present concrete proof to persuade public and regulators.
- Without clear evidence, company denials and ambiguity will dominate the debate and limit impact.
