U.S. officials warn open-source software is a cyber threat. Should they fund open source projects? Using Cursor AI and a Cornell study on generated code. The podcast explores complex APIs, vulnerabilities in open source, and the misconception of open source software security. Privacy concerns with VS code migration tool. Discussion on Star Trek series and season 3 of Picard.
Cursor AI is a promising code editor with built-in AI capabilities, but it still needs further development and clearer privacy policy explanations.
A study by Cornell University highlights the limitations and potential risks of AI-generated code, emphasizing the need for feedback mechanisms to address API misuse.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of audience support through boosting, memberships, and word-of-mouth promotion, to sustain the show's funding.
Deep dives
Cursor AI: A new editor with AI capabilities
The podcast episode discusses a new code editor called Cursor AI, which is a fork of Visual Studio Code with built-in AI capabilities. The speaker shares their personal experience using the editor, highlighting the migration process and its compatibility with VS Code extensions and settings. They mention that while the editor has potential, it is still in the early stages and may need further development. They also express some concerns about the privacy policy, calling for clearer explanations regarding data retention and usage. Overall, the speaker appreciates the editor's features but questions its ability to compete with VS Code and other AI-assisted coding tools.
Cornell University study on AI-generated code
The podcast mentions a study conducted by Cornell University on the reliability of AI-generated code. The study found that while the code may build and run, it often misuses APIs, resulting in potential risks such as memory leaks, program crashes, and garbage collection failures. Furthermore, developers using these AI tools may not be aware of the API misuse. The study concludes that while progress has been made, these tools do not substantially help software developers in practical scenarios. This discussion raises questions about the limitations and reliability of AI-generated code and highlights the need for feedback mechanisms to address API misuse.
Boosting and support from the audience
The podcast acknowledges and expresses gratitude for the support of the audience through boosting and financial contributions. The speaker thanks the listeners for their ongoing support and emphasizes the importance of sustaining the show's funding. They mention the monthly boost goal and encourage listeners to continue supporting the podcast through various means, such as boosting, memberships, and word-of-mouth promotion.
Discussion on alternative career paths
The podcast includes a brief conversation about alternative career paths outside of the tech industry. Listeners share their thoughts on potential alternative careers, such as car mechanics, HVAC technicians, and biochemists. The speakers discuss the increasing demand for tech skills in various industries and highlight the role of technology in non-tech-focused businesses as well.
Updates on recent sci-fi shows and Star Trek
The podcast concludes with a discussion on recent sci-fi shows and the Star Trek franchise. The speaker shares their thoughts on Babylon 5, Picard, and Discovery. They mention the upcoming season of Strange New Worlds and Lower Decks and provide recommendations for watching specific seasons of these shows. The speaker talks about their own preferences in sci-fi and invites the audience to continue the discussion on these shows.
U.S. officials are warning open-source software could be a cyber security threat. Their solution? Money. But do we want them picking the winners and losers of open source?
Plus, Mike's thoughts after using Cursor AI and a Cornell study take generated code to the shed.
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