The dotnet run command now supports directly executing single C# files, simplifying the process of running small programs or scripts. Previously, creating a project file was necessary, adding overhead for simple tasks. This streamlined approach allows developers to run dotnet run myapp.cs directly, handling compilation and execution in one step. The feature supports top-level statements, NuGet package dependencies declared within the file using #nullable directives, preprocessor directives, and more, providing a convenient and powerful way to execute C# code without project file management. This enhances the scripting capabilities of C# and makes it easier for quick prototyping and experimentation.
Microsoft has released a PostgreSQL extension for Visual Studio Code, offering a comprehensive IDE experience for developing with PostgreSQL. This extension provides features like connection management, schema browsing, query writing with IntelliSense and syntax highlighting, debugging support, and extensions for viewing and editing data. It aims to streamline PostgreSQL development within the familiar VS Code environment, improving developer productivity and simplifying database interactions. The extension also integrates with Azure Database for PostgreSQL flexible server deployment options.
HN users generally express cautious optimism about Microsoft's PostgreSQL IDE for VS Code. Some appreciate Microsoft embracing open source and contributing to the PostgreSQL ecosystem, hoping for a good alternative to pgAdmin. Others are skeptical, citing Microsoft's history and questioning their motives, suggesting it could be a strategy to tie users into the Azure ecosystem. Concerns about feature parity with existing tools, performance, and potential bloat were also raised. Several users recommend existing VS Code extensions like the PostgreSQL extension by pgvector, suggesting they already provide adequate functionality. Some simply express a preference for DBeaver.
Microsoft employees are expressing growing frustration with the company's over-reliance on AI-driven productivity tools, particularly in code generation and documentation. While initially perceived as helpful, these tools are now seen as hindering actual productivity due to their inaccuracies, hallucinations, and the extra work required to verify and correct AI-generated content. This has led to increased workloads, stress, and a sense of being forced to train the AI models without proper compensation, essentially working for two entities – Microsoft and the AI. Employees feel pressured to use the tools despite their flaws due to management's enthusiasm and performance metrics tied to AI adoption. The overall sentiment is that AI is becoming a source of frustration rather than assistance, impacting job satisfaction and potentially leading to burnout.
Hacker News commenters largely agree with the Reddit post's premise that Microsoft is pushing AI integration too aggressively, to the detriment of product quality and employee morale. Several express concern about the degradation of established products like Office and Teams due to a rush to incorporate AI features. Some commenters highlight the "AI washing" phenomenon, where basic features are rebranded as AI-powered. Others cynically suggest this push is driven by management's need to demonstrate AI progress to investors, regardless of practical benefits. Some offer counterpoints, arguing that the integration is still in early stages and improvements are expected, or that some of the complaints are simply resistance to change. A few also point out the potential for AI to streamline workflows and genuinely improve productivity in the long run.
Microsoft has open-sourced core components of the Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), specifically the kernel, drivers, and utilities that make up the user-mode based architecture of WSL itself. This includes the Linux kernel specifically built for WSL, as well as components like the wsl.exe command-line tool. The source code is available under the GPLv2 license on GitHub, allowing community contributions and increased transparency. While this move opens up WSL development, the underlying virtualization technology and Windows integration remain closed-source. This open-sourcing aims to foster collaboration with the Linux community and improve WSL's functionality.
Hacker News commenters generally expressed cautious optimism about WSL being open-sourced. Some questioned the GPLv2 license choice, wondering about its implications for driver development and potential future monetization by Microsoft. Others pointed out the limitations of the current open-source release, noting that kernel modifications still require rebuilding from source and expressing a desire for a more streamlined process. Several commenters discussed the benefits of this move for interoperability and developer experience, while others speculated about Microsoft's motivations, suggesting it could be a strategic play to attract more developers to the Windows ecosystem or potentially influence future Linux development. A few expressed concern over the potential for increased complexity and maintenance burden.
The moricons.dll file in Windows contains icons originally designed for Microsoft's abandoned "Cairo" operating system project. These icons weren't repurposed from existing applications but were newly created for Cairo's planned object-oriented filesystem and its associated utilities. While some icons depict generic concepts like folders and documents, others represent specific functionalities like object linking and embedding, security features, and mail messaging within the Cairo environment. Ultimately, since Cairo never shipped, these icons found a home in various dialogs and system tools within Windows 95 and later, often used as placeholders or for functionalities not explicitly designed for.
Hacker News users discuss the mystery surrounding the unused icons in moricons.dll, speculating about their purpose and the development process at Microsoft. Some suggest the icons were placeholders for future features or remnants of abandoned projects, possibly related to Cairo or object linking and embedding (OLE). One commenter links to a blog post claiming the icons were for a "Mac-on-DOS" environment called "Cougar," intended to make porting Macintosh software easier. Other comments focus on the general software development practice of leaving unused resources in code, attributing it to factors like time constraints, changing priorities, or simply forgetting to remove them. A few users recall encountering similar unused resources in other software, highlighting the commonality of this phenomenon.
A Science article raises concerns about potential data manipulation in a 2018 Nature paper that claimed evidence for Majorana zero modes, a key component for Microsoft's topological quantum computing approach. Critics allege that the authors selectively presented data, omitting measurements that contradicted their claims and potentially adjusted image parameters to enhance desired features. This controversy casts doubt on the original findings and raises questions about the validity of Microsoft's pursuit of this specific type of quantum computer. An investigation by Delft University of Technology, where the research originated, is currently underway.
Hacker News users discuss the implications of the alleged data manipulation, focusing on the damage to scientific integrity and Microsoft's reputation. Several commenters express skepticism about Majorana fermion-based quantum computing in general, viewing Microsoft's approach as a long shot. Some highlight the pressure to publish groundbreaking results, potentially incentivizing misconduct. The lack of clear evidence and the ongoing investigation are also noted, with some advocating caution before drawing definitive conclusions. A few commenters mention the potential impact on funding for the field and the need for rigorous review processes.
A Windows 7 bug caused significantly slower login times for users with solid color desktop backgrounds, particularly shades of pure black. This issue stemmed from a change in how Windows handled color conversion for desktop composition, specifically affecting the way it handled the alpha channel of the solid color. The system would unnecessarily convert the color back and forth between different formats for every pixel on the screen, adding a significant computational overhead that only manifested when a solid color filled the entire desktop. This conversion wasn't necessary for photographic or patterned backgrounds, explaining why the slowdown wasn't universal.
Hacker News commenters discussed potential reasons for the Windows 7 login slowdown with solid color backgrounds. Some suggested the issue stemmed from desktop composition (DWM) inefficiencies, specifically how it handled solid colors versus images, possibly related to memory management or caching. One commenter pointed out that using a solid color likely bypassed a code path optimization for images, leading to extra processing. Others speculated about the role of video driver interactions and the potential impact of different color depths. Some users shared anecdotal experiences, confirming the slowdown with solid colors and noting improved performance after switching to patterned backgrounds. The complexity of isolating the root cause within the DWM was also acknowledged.
The dominant web browsers (Chrome, Safari, Edge, and Firefox) rely heavily on revenue generated by including Google Search as their default. New regulations aimed at breaking up Big Tech's monopolies, particularly the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) and the US's American Innovation and Choice Online Act (AICOA), will require these browsers to offer alternative default search engines through choice screens. This is projected to significantly reduce Google's payments to browsers, potentially by as much as 80%, as users will likely opt for cheaper or free alternatives. This poses a substantial threat to browser funding and could impact future development and innovation.
HN commenters largely discuss the implications of the impending "Privacy Sandbox" changes on browser funding, with many skeptical of the author's 80% figure. Some argue the impact will be less severe than predicted, citing alternative revenue streams like subscriptions, built-in services, and enterprise contracts. Others point out that while ad revenue may decrease, costs associated with ad tech will also decrease, potentially offsetting some of the losses. A few express concern about the potential consolidation of the browser market and the implications for user privacy if browser vendors are forced to find new, potentially exploitative, revenue models. The overall sentiment appears to be one of cautious observation rather than outright panic.
The blog post explores hidden "Easter eggs" within the 8-bit BASIC interpreters Bill Gates co-authored for the Altair 8800, Apple II, and other early personal computers. These undocumented features, accessible through specific inputs or memory locations, include messages like a copyright notice listing Gates and Paul Allen, a list of developers who worked on the interpreter, and even a small game called DONKEY.BAS, which challenged players to avoid hitting donkeys with a car. The author discovered these secrets through reverse engineering and experimentation, highlighting a playful and less-known side of Gates's early programming career. The Easter eggs serve as a fascinating glimpse into the history of personal computing and the personalities behind its creation.
Several commenters on Hacker News expressed appreciation for the historical context and nostalgia surrounding Gates's Easter eggs, with some sharing personal anecdotes of discovering them in their youth. A few pointed out that these Easter eggs, alongside the overall accessibility of early BASIC interpreters, played a role in inspiring a generation of programmers. Some discussed the technical limitations of the time and how Gates cleverly worked within them to create these hidden messages. The discussion also touched upon the shift in software development culture, contrasting the playful nature of these Easter eggs with the more corporate and security-conscious environment of today. A recurring sentiment was that such personal touches are now rare in modern software. Finally, several commenters corrected some technical details in the original article, such as the actual size of the Easter egg message displayed, and the mechanisms by which they were triggered.
Microsoft has removed its official C/C++ extension from downstream forks of VS Code, including VSCodium and Open VSX Registry. This means users of these open-source alternatives will lose access to features like IntelliSense, debugging, and other language-specific functionalities provided by the proprietary extension. While the core VS Code editor remains open source, the extension relies on proprietary components and Microsoft has chosen to restrict its availability solely to its official, Microsoft-branded VS Code builds. This move has sparked controversy, with some accusing Microsoft of "embrace, extend, extinguish" tactics against open-source alternatives. Users of affected forks will need to find alternative C/C++ extensions or switch to the official Microsoft build to regain the lost functionality.
Hacker News users discuss the implications of Microsoft's decision to restrict the C/C++ extension in VS Code forks, primarily focusing on the potential impact on open-source projects like VSCodium. Some commenters express concern about Microsoft's motivations, viewing it as an anti-competitive move to push users towards the official Microsoft build. Others believe it's a reasonable measure to protect Microsoft's investment and control the quality of the extension's distribution. The technical aspects of how Microsoft enforces this restriction are also discussed, with some suggesting workarounds like manually installing the extension or using alternative extensions. A few users point out that the core VS Code editor remains open-source and the real issue lies in the proprietary extensions being closed off. The discussion also touches upon the broader topic of open-source sustainability and the challenges faced by projects reliant on large companies.
A 20-year-old bug in Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, related to how the game handles specific low-level keyboard input, resurfaced in Windows 11 24H2. This bug, originally present in the 2005 release, causes the game to minimize when certain key combinations are pressed, particularly involving the right Windows key. The issue stemmed from DirectInput, a now-deprecated API used for game controllers, and wasn't previously problematic because older versions of Windows handled the spurious messages differently. Windows 11's updated input stack now surfaces these messages to the game, triggering the minimize behavior. A workaround exists by using a third-party DirectInput wrapper or running the game in compatibility mode for Windows 7.
Commenters on Hacker News discuss the GTA San Andreas bug triggered by Windows 11 24H2, mostly focusing on the technical aspects. Several highlight the likely culprit: a change in how Windows handles thread local storage (TLS) callbacks, specifically the order of execution. One compelling comment notes the difficulty in debugging such issues, as the problem might not lie within the game's code itself, but rather in the interaction with the OS, making it hard to pinpoint and fix. Others mention the impressive longevity of the game and express surprise that such a bug could remain hidden for so long, while some jokingly lament the "progress" of Windows updates. A few commenters share their own experiences with similar obscure bugs and the challenges they posed.
Philip Laine recounts his experience developing an open-source command-line tool called "BranchName" to simplify copying Git branch names. After achieving moderate success and popularity, Microsoft released a nearly identical tool within their "Dev Home" software, even reusing significant portions of Laine's code without proper attribution. Despite Laine's outreach and attempts to collaborate with Microsoft, they initially offered only minimal acknowledgment. While Microsoft eventually improved their attribution and incorporated some of Laine's suggested changes, the experience left Laine feeling frustrated with the appropriation of his work and the power dynamics inherent in open-source interactions with large corporations. He concludes by advocating for greater respect and recognition of open-source developers' contributions.
Hacker News commenters largely sympathize with the author's frustration at Microsoft's perceived copying of his open-source project. Several users share similar experiences with large companies adopting or replicating their work without proper attribution or collaboration. Some question Microsoft's motivation, suggesting it's easier for them to rebuild than to integrate with existing open-source projects, while others point to the difficulty in legally protecting smaller projects against such actions. A few commenters note that the author's MIT license permits this type of use, emphasizing the importance of choosing a license that aligns with one's goals. Some offer pragmatic advice, suggesting engaging with Microsoft directly or focusing on community building and differentiation. Finally, there's discussion about the nuances of "forking" versus "reimplementing" and whether Microsoft's actions truly constitute a fork.
Microsoft has developed Kermit, a new typeface specifically designed to improve readability for young children. Based on research into how children perceive letterforms, Kermit incorporates features like open counters, wide proportions, distinct ascenders and descenders, and simplified letter shapes to reduce visual confusion. The goal is to enhance the learning-to-read experience and make reading more accessible and enjoyable for early readers. Kermit is freely available under the SIL Open Font License.
HN commenters were largely critical of Kermit, questioning the research backing its claims of improved readability for children. Several pointed out that the typeface appeared similar to Comic Sans, raising concerns about its professionalism and the potential for overuse. Some questioned the need for a specialized typeface for children, suggesting that established, well-designed fonts were already sufficient. A few commenters offered mild praise for its playful appearance, but overall the reception was skeptical, with many expressing doubt about its actual benefits and questioning the methodology of the research cited. The lack of readily available comparisons to other typefaces was also criticized.
Microsoft Edge 134 brings significant performance enhancements across the board. Startup is faster thanks to Profile Guided Optimization (PGO) and a more efficient browser process initialization. Sleeping tabs, now enabled by default, reduce memory usage by 83% and CPU usage by 32% compared to discarded tabs. The browser also optimizes resource allocation for active tabs, improving performance even with many tabs open. Further enhancements include improved video playback performance, faster page loading from browser history, and reduced input latency. These changes result in a smoother, more responsive browsing experience with less resource consumption.
Hacker News users generally expressed skepticism towards Microsoft's performance claims about Edge 134. Several commenters questioned the methodology and benchmarks used, pointing out the lack of specifics and the potential for cherry-picked results. Some suggested that perceived performance improvements might be due to disabling features or aggressive caching. Others noted that while benchmarks might show improvements, real-world performance, particularly memory usage, remains a concern for Edge. A few users offered anecdotal evidence, with some reporting positive experiences and others experiencing continued performance issues. The overall sentiment leans towards cautious observation rather than outright acceptance of Microsoft's claims.
Bill Gates reflects on the recently released Altair BASIC source code, a pivotal moment in Microsoft's history. He reminisces about the challenges and excitement of developing this early software for the Altair 8800 with Paul Allen, including the limited memory constraints and the thrill of seeing it run successfully for the first time. Gates emphasizes the importance of this foundational work, highlighting how it propelled both Microsoft and the broader personal computer revolution forward. He also notes the collaborative nature of early software development and encourages exploration of the code as a window into the past.
HN commenters discuss the historical significance of Microsoft's early source code release, noting its impact on the industry and the evolution of programming practices. Several commenters reminisce about using these early versions of BASIC and DOS, sharing personal anecdotes about their first experiences with computing. Some express interest in examining the code for educational purposes, to learn from the simple yet effective design choices. A few discuss the legal implications of releasing decades-old code, and the potential for discovering hidden vulnerabilities. The challenges of understanding code written with now-obsolete practices are also mentioned. Finally, some commenters speculate on the motivations behind Microsoft's decision to open-source this historical artifact.
Four early Microsoft employees reflect on the company's nascent years, painting a picture of a demanding yet exhilarating environment. They describe long hours fueled by passion and a shared belief in the transformative power of personal computing. From cramped offices to late-night coding sessions, the article highlights the scrappy, collaborative culture that defined early Microsoft, emphasizing the dedication and camaraderie that propelled the company's rapid growth. These firsthand accounts reveal not just the technical challenges overcome, but the personal sacrifices and deep connections forged during Microsoft's formative period.
HN commenters largely reminisce about their own experiences with early Microsoft products and the company's impact on the tech industry. Several share anecdotes about using early versions of Windows, MS-DOS, and various development tools, recalling both the excitement and frustrations of those early days. Some commenters discuss the company's shift in focus over time, contrasting its earlier, more innovative reputation with its current perception as a more corporate entity. A few highlight the importance of Microsoft's role in popularizing personal computing and its influence on subsequent tech giants. Others express skepticism about the rosy portrayal of the company's history, pointing to its past anti-competitive practices. Overall, the comments reflect a mix of nostalgia, respect, and critical reflection on Microsoft's legacy.
Windows 11's latest Insider build further cements the requirement of a Microsoft account for Home and Pro edition users during initial setup. While previous workarounds allowed local account creation, this update eliminates those loopholes, forcing users to sign in with a Microsoft account before accessing the desktop. Microsoft claims this provides a consistent experience across Windows 11 features and devices. However, this change limits user choice and potentially raises privacy concerns for those preferring local accounts. Pro users setting up Windows 11 on their workplace network will be exempt from this requirement, allowing them to directly join Azure Active Directory or Active Directory.
Hacker News users largely expressed frustration and cynicism towards Microsoft's increased push for mandatory account sign-ins in Windows 11. Several commenters saw this as a continuation of Microsoft's trend of prioritizing advertising revenue and data collection over user experience and privacy. Some discussed workarounds, like using local accounts during initial setup and disabling connected services later, while others lamented the gradual erosion of local account functionality. A few pointed out the irony of Microsoft's stance on user choice given their past criticisms of similar practices by other tech companies. Several commenters suggested that this move further solidified Linux as a preferable alternative for privacy-conscious users.
Microsoft's older USB mice often included a small USB-to-PS/2 adapter. This adapter wasn't just a passive wiring converter; it contained active circuitry that translated USB signals into PS/2 signals. This allowed the mouse to function on computers with only PS/2 ports, and importantly, enabled support for the "Wake-on-Mouse" feature in some systems, which required a PS/2 connection. The adapter effectively made the USB mouse appear as a PS/2 device to the computer's BIOS, enabling this functionality even on motherboards lacking USB wake support. Therefore, discarding the seemingly insignificant adapter meant losing the potential for wake-on-mouse capabilities.
Hacker News users discuss the intricacies of the Microsoft USB-to-PS/2 adapter, focusing on its active conversion of USB signals to PS/2 rather than simple pin mapping. Several commenters praise the adapter's sophistication, highlighting its ability to handle higher polling rates than standard PS/2 and even emulate multiple PS/2 devices from a single USB port. Some express surprise at learning this detail, having previously assumed passive conversion. Others reminisce about similar PS/2 to serial port adapters, while some debate the technical challenges and cleverness of the implementation. The discussion touches on the historical context of transitioning between these technologies, the complexities of bidirectional communication, and the surprising amount of intelligence packed into this seemingly simple adapter.
Nature reports that Microsoft's claim of creating a topological qubit, a key step towards fault-tolerant quantum computing, remains unproven. While Microsoft published a paper presenting evidence for the existence of Majorana zero modes, which are crucial for topological qubits, the scientific community remains skeptical. Independent researchers have yet to replicate Microsoft's findings, and some suggest that the observed signals could be explained by other phenomena. The Nature article highlights the need for further research and independent verification before Microsoft's claim can be validated. The company continues to work on scaling up its platform, but achieving a truly fault-tolerant quantum computer based on this technology remains a distant prospect.
Hacker News users discuss Microsoft's quantum computing claims with skepticism, focusing on the lack of peer review and independent verification of their "majorana zero mode" breakthrough. Several commenters highlight the history of retracted papers and unfulfilled promises in the field, urging caution. Some point out the potential financial motivations behind Microsoft's announcements, while others note the difficulty of replicating complex experiments and the general challenges in building a scalable quantum computer. The reliance on "future milestones" rather than present evidence is a recurring theme in the criticism, with commenters expressing a "wait-and-see" attitude towards Microsoft's claims. Some also debate the scientific process itself, discussing the role of preprints and the challenges of validating groundbreaking research.
Microsoft is developing a new TypeScript compiler implementation called "tsc-native" built using native C++. This new compiler aims to drastically improve TypeScript compilation speed, potentially making it up to 10x faster than the existing JavaScript-based compiler. The project leverages the V8 JavaScript engine's TurboFan JIT compiler to optimize performance-critical parts of the type checking process. While still experimental, initial benchmarks show significant improvements, particularly for large projects. The team is actively working on refining the compiler and invites community feedback as they progress towards a production-ready release.
Hacker News users discussed the potential impact of a native TypeScript compiler. Some expressed skepticism about the claimed 10x speed improvement, emphasizing the need for real-world benchmarks and noting that compile times aren't always the bottleneck in TypeScript development. Others questioned the long-term viability of the project given Microsoft's previous attempts at native compilation. Several commenters pointed out that JavaScript's dynamic nature presents inherent challenges for ahead-of-time compilation and optimization, and wondered how the project would address issues like runtime type checking and dynamic module loading. There was also interest in whether the native compiler would support features like decorators and reflection. Some users expressed hope that a faster compiler could enable new use cases for TypeScript, like scripting and game development.
This video showcases a young, energetic Steve Ballmer enthusiastically pitching the then-new Microsoft Windows 1.0. He highlights key features like the graphical user interface, multitasking capabilities (running multiple programs simultaneously), and the use of a mouse for easier navigation, contrasting it with the command-line interface prevalent at the time. Ballmer emphasizes the user-friendliness and productivity gains of Windows, demonstrating basic operations like opening and closing windows, switching between applications, and using paint software. He positions Windows as a revolutionary advancement in personal computing, promising a more intuitive and efficient working experience.
Commenters on Hacker News reacted to the Windows 1.0 video with a mix of nostalgia and amusement. Several noted the awkwardness of early software demos, particularly Ballmer's forced enthusiasm and the clunky interface. Some reminisced about their own experiences with early versions of Windows, while others pointed out the historical significance of the moment and how far personal computing has come. A few highlighted the surprisingly high system requirements for the time, and the relative affordability compared to other graphical interfaces like the Macintosh. There was some debate about the actual usefulness of Windows 1.0 and whether it was truly a "killer app." Overall, the comments reflected a sense of appreciation for the historical context of the video and the progress made since then.
According to a TechStartups report, Microsoft is reportedly developing its own AI chips, codenamed "Athena," to reduce its reliance on Nvidia and potentially OpenAI. This move towards internal AI hardware development suggests a long-term strategy where Microsoft could operate its large language models independently. While currently deeply invested in OpenAI, developing its own hardware gives Microsoft more control and potentially reduces costs associated with reliance on external providers in the future. This doesn't necessarily mean a complete break with OpenAI, but it positions Microsoft for greater independence in the evolving AI landscape.
Hacker News commenters are skeptical of the article's premise, pointing out that Microsoft has invested heavily in OpenAI and integrated their technology deeply into their products. They suggest the article misinterprets Microsoft's exploration of alternative AI models as a plan to abandon OpenAI entirely. Several commenters believe it's more likely Microsoft is hedging their bets, ensuring they aren't solely reliant on one company for AI capabilities while continuing their partnership with OpenAI. Some discuss the potential for competitive pressure from Google and the desire to diversify AI resources to address different needs and price points. A few highlight the complexities of large business relationships, arguing that the situation is likely more nuanced than the article portrays.
A vulnerability in Microsoft Partner Center (partner.microsoft.com) allowed unauthenticated users to access internal resources. Specifically, improperly configured Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) application and service principal permissions enabled unauthorized access to certain Partner Center APIs. This misconfiguration potentially exposed sensitive business information related to Microsoft partners. Microsoft addressed the vulnerability by correcting the Azure AD application and service principal permissions to prevent unauthorized access.
HN users discuss the lack of detail in the CVE report for CVE-2024-49035, making it difficult to assess the actual impact. Some speculate about the potential severity, ranging from trivial to highly impactful depending on the specific exposed data and functionality. The vagueness also raises questions about Microsoft's disclosure process and the potential for more serious underlying issues. Several commenters note the irony of a vulnerability on a partner security portal, highlighting the difficulty of maintaining perfect security even for organizations focused on it. One user questions the use of "unauthenticated access" in the title, suggesting it might be misleading without knowing what level of access was granted.
Microsoft has introduced Dragon Ambient eXperience (DAX) Copilot, an AI-powered assistant designed to reduce administrative burdens on healthcare professionals. It automates note-taking during patient visits, generating clinical documentation that can be reviewed and edited by the physician. DAX Copilot leverages ambient AI and large language models to create summaries, suggest diagnoses and treatments based on doctor-patient conversations, and integrate information with electronic health records. This aims to free up doctors to focus more on patient care, potentially improving both physician and patient experience.
HN commenters express skepticism and concern about Microsoft's Dragon Copilot for healthcare. Several doubt its practical utility, citing the complexity and nuance of medical interactions as difficult for AI to handle effectively. Privacy is a major concern, with commenters questioning data security and the potential for misuse. Some highlight the existing challenges of EHR integration and suggest Copilot may exacerbate these issues rather than solve them. A few express cautious optimism, hoping it could handle administrative tasks and free up doctors' time, but overall the sentiment leans toward pragmatic doubt about the touted benefits. There's also discussion of the hype cycle surrounding AI and whether this is another example of overpromising.
Windows 11 Insider Preview Build 22635.4950 (Beta Channel) brings several fixes and improvements. Key changes include resolving an explorer.exe crash, improving Narrator performance with large amounts of text, fixing an issue affecting the reliability of Start menu badges, and addressing problems with app defaults and searchindexer.exe crashes. This build also removes the previously available live captions settings within Quick Settings, directing users to the full settings page instead. While this build doesn't introduce new features, it focuses on stability and bug fixes for a smoother user experience.
Hacker News users discuss the new features in the Windows 11 Insider Preview Build, mostly focusing on practical improvements rather than revolutionary changes. Several commenters express appreciation for the return of ungrouped taskbar icons, viewing it as a positive step back from a less popular design choice. Some discuss the new screen recording feature in Snipping Tool, noting its basic functionality and comparing it to existing third-party options. Others mention the addition of a native VPN status indicator in the system tray, considering it a welcome, if overdue, feature. A few comments also touch on more technical aspects, such as the performance improvements and changes to Windows Ink. Overall, the sentiment seems to be one of cautious optimism, with users appreciating the iterative improvements but remaining somewhat reserved about the overall direction of Windows 11.
Microsoft is shutting down its classic Skype for Business Online service on May 5, 2025. The company has been encouraging users to migrate to Microsoft Teams, its newer communication and collaboration platform, for several years. While consumer Skype will remain unaffected, businesses still using the legacy Skype for Business platform are urged to complete their transition to Teams before the deadline to avoid disruption. Microsoft highlights Teams' enhanced features and integration with other Microsoft 365 services as key benefits of the switch.
Hacker News commenters largely lament the loss of Skype, focusing on its previously excellent quality and reliability, particularly for international calls. Many express frustration with Microsoft's handling of the platform, believing they intentionally let it degrade after acquisition. Some suggest Microsoft prioritized Teams integration to the detriment of Skype's core functionality. Alternatives like Zoom, Teams, and Discord are discussed, but several users feel none fully replicate Skype's specific strengths, like its robust handling of poor connections. A few commenters also reminisce about Skype's history and innovative features, noting its pioneering role in video calling and screen sharing.
Reports suggest Microsoft is planning to shut down Skype for Business Server in 2025, although the consumer Skype app will seemingly remain. After acquiring Skype in 2011, Microsoft gradually shifted focus to its Teams platform, integrating many of Skype's features and positioning Teams as the preferred communication tool for both business and personal use. This has led to a perceived neglect of Skype, with limited updates and dwindling user engagement, ultimately paving the way for its eventual demise in the enterprise space.
Hacker News users generally agree that Skype's decline is attributable to Microsoft's mismanagement. Several commenters point to missed opportunities, like failing to capitalize on mobile messaging and neglecting the platform's UI/UX, leading to a clunky and less desirable experience compared to competitors. Some users reminisced about Skype's early dominance in video calling, while others criticized the integration of Lync/SfB, arguing it made Skype more complex and less appealing for personal use. The forced migration of Skype users to Teams is also a common complaint, with many expressing frustration over the loss of features and a perceived degradation in call quality. A few commenters suggest the downfall began with the eBay acquisition and subsequent sale to Microsoft, highlighting a series of poor decisions that ultimately led to Skype's demise. There's a sense of disappointment in what Skype could have been, coupled with resignation to its inevitable fate.
Microsoft Edge users are reporting that the browser is disabling installed extensions, including popular ad blockers like uBlock Origin, without user permission. This appears to be related to a controlled rollout of a new mandatory extension called "Extensions Notifications" which seems to conflict with existing extensions, causing them to be automatically turned off. The issue is not affecting all users, suggesting it's an A/B test or staged rollout by Microsoft. While the exact purpose of the new extension is unclear, it might be intended to improve extension management or notify users about potentially malicious add-ons.
HN users largely express skepticism and concern over Microsoft disabling extensions in Edge. Several doubt the claim that it's unintentional, citing Microsoft's history of pushing its own products and services. Some suggest it's a bug related to sync or profile management, while others propose it's a deliberate attempt to steer users towards Microsoft's built-in tracking prevention or Edge's own ad platform. The potential for this behavior to erode user trust and push people towards other browsers is a recurring theme. Many commenters share personal anecdotes of Edge's aggressive defaults and unwanted behaviors, further fueling the suspicion around this incident. A few users provide technical insights, suggesting possible mechanisms behind the disabling, like manifest mismatches or corrupted profiles, and offering troubleshooting advice.
The YouTube video "Microsoft is Getting Rusty" argues that Microsoft is increasingly adopting the Rust programming language due to its memory safety and performance benefits, particularly in areas where C++ has historically been problematic. The video highlights Microsoft's growing use of Rust in various projects like Azure and Windows, citing examples like rewriting core Windows components. It emphasizes that while C++ remains important, Rust is seen as a crucial tool for improving the security and reliability of Microsoft's software, and suggests this trend will likely continue as Rust matures and gains wider adoption within the company.
Hacker News users discussed Microsoft's increasing use of Rust, generally expressing optimism about its memory safety benefits and suitability for performance-sensitive systems programming. Some commenters noted Rust's steep learning curve, but acknowledged its potential to mitigate vulnerabilities prevalent in C/C++ codebases. Several users shared personal experiences with Rust, highlighting its positive impact on their projects. The discussion also touched upon the challenges of integrating Rust into existing projects and the importance of tooling and community support. A few comments expressed skepticism, questioning the long-term viability of Rust and its ability to fully replace C/C++. Overall, the comments reflect a cautious but positive outlook on Microsoft's adoption of Rust.
Microsoft has reportedly canceled leases for data center space in Silicon Valley previously intended for artificial intelligence development. Analyst Matthew Ball suggests this move signals a shift in Microsoft's AI infrastructure strategy, possibly consolidating resources into larger, more efficient locations like its existing Azure data centers. This comes amid increasing demand for AI computing power and as Microsoft heavily invests in AI technologies like OpenAI. While the canceled leases represent a relatively small portion of Microsoft's overall data center footprint, the decision offers a glimpse into the company's evolving approach to AI infrastructure management.
Hacker News users discuss the potential implications of Microsoft canceling data center leases, primarily focusing on the balance between current AI hype and actual demand. Some speculate that Microsoft overestimated the immediate need for AI-specific infrastructure, potentially due to inflated expectations or a strategic shift towards prioritizing existing resources. Others suggest the move reflects a broader industry trend of reevaluating data center needs amidst economic uncertainty. A few commenters question the accuracy of the reporting, emphasizing the lack of official confirmation from Microsoft and the possibility of misinterpreting standard lease adjustments as a significant pullback. The overall sentiment seems to be cautious optimism about AI's future while acknowledging the potential for a market correction.
Summary of Comments ( 202 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=44122582
HN commenters generally express enthusiasm for
dotnet run app.cs, finding it a welcome simplification for running single-file C# programs. Several compare it favorably to similar functionality in other languages like Python, Ruby, and JavaScript, appreciating the reduced ceremony for quick scripts and experimentation. Some raise questions about how it handles dependencies and more complex projects, while others note potential implications for teaching and onboarding new C# developers. A few point out that this feature isn't entirely new, with similar results achievable through piping to the compiler, but acknowledge the improved developer experience this dedicated command offers. There's also discussion about compilation speed and whether pre-compilation might offer further performance improvements for repeated executions.The Hacker News post "Run a C# file directly using dotnet run app.cs" discussing the Microsoft blog post about the new
dotnet run app.csfeature has generated a fair number of comments, mostly revolving around comparisons to other languages and ecosystems, and reflecting on the convenience and implications of this new functionality.Several commenters draw parallels to similar features in other languages. One commenter points out the resemblance to running Python scripts directly using
python my_script.py, highlighting the streamlined experience this offers. Another commenter mentions similar functionality in PHP, emphasizing the ease of use for quick scripting tasks. The ability to execute single files without explicit compilation or project setup is a recurring theme, with several comments praising the reduced friction for beginners and small projects.A few comments delve into the potential implications for tooling and development workflows. One user speculates about the impact on IDEs and how they might integrate this feature, suggesting a more dynamic development process. Another discusses the possibility of using this feature for scripting within larger .NET projects, foreseeing benefits in automation and build processes.
The discussion also touches on the performance aspects of this feature. A commenter raises the question of whether
dotnet run app.csincurs additional overhead compared to running a pre-compiled executable. This prompts a discussion about the potential for behind-the-scenes caching mechanisms and the trade-offs between ease of use and execution speed.Some commenters express concern about the potential for misuse or confusion, particularly among newcomers to C#. They worry that this simplified approach might encourage bad practices or obscure the underlying compilation process. However, others counter this argument by emphasizing the value of lowering the barrier to entry for beginners and promoting experimentation.
Finally, a few commenters offer suggestions for further improvements and extensions to the feature. One suggests the ability to specify command-line arguments directly to the script. Another proposes integrating this functionality with other .NET tools and frameworks. Overall, the comments reflect a generally positive reception to the
dotnet run app.csfeature, with many acknowledging its potential to simplify C# development and expand its use cases.