AI killed the tech interview. Now what? (Changelog News #133)
Feb 24, 2025
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The podcast dives into how AI is reshaping technical interviews, raising questions about traditional methods. Rhys shares his journey in creating an app to curb smartphone overuse. Microsoft reveals exciting advancements in quantum computing, while Chris humorously navigates a washing machine installation. The conversation also touches on innovative app development using SwiftUI and Google Vision, showcasing the evolving landscape of tech.
AI's impact on technical interviews may lead to increased candidates passing but struggling during probation periods, challenging employers and job seekers.
Reese Kentish's app promotes outdoor engagement to reduce smartphone usage, showcasing innovation in user behavior modification alongside advances in quantum computing.
Deep dives
The Impact of AI on Technical Interviews
AI has significantly altered the landscape of technical interviews, raising concerns about the efficacy of traditional interview methods. Kane Narraway highlights that reliance on AI tools has rendered platforms like HackerRank ineffective, as candidates often struggle to demonstrate genuine understanding or application of coding fundamentals. A shift in interview formats is suggested, with options ranging from eliminating remote tech interviews to incorporating AI into assessments. The potential outcome of these changes is an increase in the number of candidates passing interviews but potentially failing during their probationary periods, which poses challenges for both employers and job seekers.
Innovative Approaches to App Development
Reese Kentish developed a unique app aimed at reducing morning smartphone usage through a mechanism that encourages users to engage with the outdoors before accessing their devices. The app utilizes SwiftUI and Apple’s screen time APIs, but it may face challenges in regions where natural elements like grass are scarce. Meanwhile, Microsoft announced advancements in its quantum computing efforts, specifically the Madrana One chip, which represents a significant leap toward practical quantum applications. These pioneering steps highlight the ongoing drive for innovative solutions, whether in user behavior modification through apps or breakthrough technologies in computing.
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The Transformation of Tech Interviews in the Age of AI
Kane Narraway thinks through the radical change AI tools have brought to the technical interview process, Rhys Kentish built an app that makes him touch grass, Microsoft announced their progress on quantum computing, Chris Horsley learns about software estimations by yak shaving a washing machine install & Andreas Gohr built StumbleUpon for the IndieWeb.
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