Syntax - Tasty Web Development Treats

870: Windsurf forked VS Code to compete with Cursor. Talking the future of AI + Coding

Jan 22, 2025

In this chat, Kevin Hou, co-founder of Windsurf, and Varun Mohan, its CEO, dive into the fascinating intersection of AI and coding. They discuss how Windsurf, emerging from the success of Codeium, aims to redefine coding with its sleek, AI-infused tools. The duo explores the challenges of forking VS Code and rethinking coding environments to better serve developers. Expect insights on how AI will shape the future of software development and the importance of keeping pace with rapid tech advancements!

57:54

Creator website

Episode guests

Varun Mohan

Kevin Hou

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Windsurf's transition from GPU virtualization to AI-driven coding tools illustrates the evolving needs in today’s software development landscape.

The application’s unique design focuses on enhancing user interaction with AI-generated code, making it a seamless part of the coding process.

Emphasizing an optimistic future for developers, AI tools like Windsurf are predicted to lower barriers to entry in software development.

Deep dives

The Emergence and Evolution of Windsurf

Windsurf was developed as a response to evolving needs in the coding landscape, especially with the rise of generative AI technologies. Initially, the company started as a GPU virtualization enterprise before pivoting to focus on AI-based coding tools, culminating in the creation of Codium and later Windsurf. This transition signifies a shift towards creating a more personalized AI coding experience, which adapts to individual users and their projects. The founders recognized the limitations of simply being a VS Code extension and sought to create a premier experience that fully leverages AI capabilities.

Intro

5min

Enhancing Coding with AI and UI Innovation

23min

Enhancing Coding Efficiency with AI Tools and Memory

5min

Innovating Code Editors: Design and AI Integration

19min

Exploring Bicycle Technology and Bluetooth Innovations

2min

Exploring Bluetooth Innovations and a Windsurf Promotion

2min

The Intricacies of Domain Name Valuation and Ownership

2min

Wes and Scott talk with Kevin Hou and Varun Mohan from Windsurf about the evolving landscape of AI in coding, and the future of software development.

Show Notes

00:00 Welcome to Syntax!
00:50 The origins of Windsurf and Codeium
- Windsurf
- Codeium
- Vs Code
- Cursor
03:14 Rethinking IDE UX
05:45 Will Microsoft eventually implement these AI features in VS Code?
09:27 The "agentic" editor concept
17:58 The future of software development with AI
24:37 AI in large codebases
28:22 Brought to you by Sentry.io
28:46 How does AI stay current with frequent language/library updates?
33:07 Behind Windsurf's fresh design
35:23 Challenges with forking VS Code
38:47 AI and future innovations
43:04 How Windsurf approaches AI experimentation
45:11 Pricing and user segments
48:38 Will Windsurf ever run in the browser?
50:58 Sick Pick + Shameless Plugs