GeekWire

Marcus Fontoura, a Technical Fellow at Microsoft and author of 'A Platform Mindset,' dives into the transformative power of platforms in technology. He discusses how AI enhances engineering productivity and the importance of creativity and autonomy in tech roles. Fontoura emphasizes treating engineers like artists rather than mere managers, promoting a culture that fosters innovation. He also shares insights on navigating personal growth amidst career challenges and the evolving dynamics of teamwork in the tech landscape.

Melinda French Gates, a renowned philanthropist and advocate for women's equity, shares insights from her new book, 'The Next Day.' She discusses her emotional journey through life transitions, motherhood, and the lessons learned from therapy. French Gates highlights her billion-dollar commitment to empower women and delves into the promise of AI in healthcare. She also reflects on the importance of introspection during turbulent times and emphasizes resilience, personal values, and the joy in small moments amidst chaos.

Nathan Myhrvold, CEO of Intellectual Ventures and former CTO at Microsoft, dives into his dynamic career spanning tech, science, and modern cuisine. He discusses AI's evolution and its parallels to the early days of personal computing, along with Microsoft's strategic collaborations, especially with OpenAI. Myhrvold also tackles society's fears about AI versus its potential benefits. Plus, he shares insights on innovative solutions for rising global energy demands and teases the next installment of his Modernist Cuisine series.

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft, discusses the company's milestone 50th anniversary. He reflects on Microsoft's legacy and its continual evolution in the tech landscape. Nadella highlights the pivotal role of AI in enhancing productivity, showcasing innovations like GitHub Copilot. He also addresses contemporary challenges, including corporate responsibility amid global issues, and shares insights from a rare event featuring past leaders Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer. The conversation intertwines nostalgia with a forward-looking vision for Microsoft's future.

Daniel Rausch, Amazon’s VP of Alexa and Echo, discusses Amazon's ambitious Alexa+ project. He reveals how this next-generation voice assistant aims for seamless conversations and deeper integration with devices. Rausch highlights Alexa+'s ability to act autonomously, transforming user interactions. He also addresses the competitive landscape, especially with emerging AI chatbots like ChatGPT. With enhanced features for grocery shopping and personalized experiences, Amazon is set to revolutionize how users engage with voice technology.

Steve Ballmer, the former CEO of Microsoft, shares fascinating insights from his groundbreaking tenure, touching on key collaborations with Bill Gates and Paul Allen. He reveals his biggest leadership mistakes and offers a heartfelt look at Microsoft's current state as its largest shareholder. Beyond tech, Ballmer discusses reinventing fan experiences with the L.A. Clippers and his mission to enhance transparency in government through data. His nostalgic reflections underscore the enduring impact of Microsoft’s culture and innovation journey.

Brad Smith, the Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, reflects on the company's 50-year legacy while navigating future challenges. He discusses the impact of proposed Washington state taxes on the tech sector and the ethical debates surrounding AI and technology's societal role. Smith also emphasizes the importance of innovation and collaboration in a rapidly changing landscape, while reminiscing about Microsoft's journey through resilience, especially during its antitrust trials. Expect insights into both historical reflections and future visions for technology.

This week on the GeekWire Podcast, we discuss the big real estate technology news of the week: Rocket Companies, the mortgage, real estate and personal finance giant, is buying Redfin, the Seattle-based tech-powered real estate company that has been a longtime disrupter in the world of buying and selling homes.  Joining us to assess the implications are Stephanie Reid-Simons, who oversees the news team at RealEstateNews.com as a senior vice president with the news site; and Tim Ellis, a former Redfin market analyst who's a podcaster and blogger, and a veteran of Seattle-area startups including Porch, Moz, and Glowforge. Also on the show: Microsoft brings its Copilot AI technology to gaming, but can Microsoft prove this is more than Xbox meets Clippy? We’ll consider that question in the final segment with Thomas Wilde, an independent video-game journalist and editor who writes about games for GeekWire, Hard Drive, and other publications. Join us at Microsoft@50 at Town Hall Seattle this Thursday, March 20.  With GeekWire co-founder Todd Bishop.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week: Michael Levin and Josh Lowitz of Consumer Intelligence Research Partners (CIRP) discuss the state of Amazon's Alexa and Echo business, and what the recently announced Alexa+ service means for the company and users. CIRP studies consumer behavior to provide insights for investors and industry leaders. Related links and coverage CIRP: Amazon Report on Substack. (Check out CIRP's Apple Report, as well.) CIRP's Amazon Report: Alexa, Should I Pay for Alexa+? Or Get a New Echo? GeekWire: Amazon’s new Alexa+ uses generative AI to personalize conversations and automate tasks Amazon: Introducing Alexa+, the next generation of Alexa With GeekWire co-founder Todd Bishop; Edited by Curt Milton. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chetan Nayak, a Technical Fellow and Corporate Vice President of Quantum Hardware at Microsoft, shares his insights on the future of quantum computing. He discusses the transformative potential of Microsoft's innovations, especially in materials science and chemistry. The conversation also covers the shift of Google from Seattle's Fremont area and the fading prominence of Skype as it transitions to Teams. Nayak highlights the challenges faced in quantum technology and its promise to revolutionize computing in the near future.