The surprising way Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella uses AI to consume podcasts on his commute

Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, has made a significant shift in hisPodcasting experience by embracing multimodal AI interfaces, a move that has[]{“translated.Accounty nix mkdir”} completely transformed his listening habits, particularly in the context of podcasts. In a recent interview with the Minus One podcast from South Park Commons, Nadella mentioned that his iPhone had been equipped with the Action Button on his iPhone, paired with Apple CarPlay, which allows him to activate Microsoft Copilot “virtually.” This capability enables him to engage with AI-driven content, such as podcasts, inside his car, as a practical extension of his everyday commuting routine.

One of Nadella’s key criticisms of the traditional podcast lifestyle is the lack of accessibility for people who prefer more hands-on interaction. “To me, the best way to consume podcasts isn’t to actually listen to them,” Nadella stated. “That’s what I thought of doing before, but with the shift to multimodal AI, that’s been completely rewritten.” He elaborated, suggesting that adopting a conversation mode with a transcript in the car is a “superb new modality” that combines the benefits of voice interaction with the convenience of a shared commuting space. This innovation by Microsoft Copilot not only enhances the accessibility of podcasts but also provides a new dimension for personal interaction and engagement.

Nadella’s quest for better podcast consumption extends beyond a single device but aligns with his broader trend of seeking innovative ways to connect with PODCs. “Think about it, right? This full-duplex conversation which was never possible — that is a fantastic new modality,” Nadella echoed. His confidence was misplaced, though, as he acknowledged the challenges in navigating multi-modal platforms. “There’s no going back,” he advised. However, his pursuit of such unconventional methods is inspired by the potential for personal and professional growth, enabling people to connect with PODCs in diverse settings and environments, such as in the car with a conversation heard over a network.

“Having a conversation with a transcript like this is doable in Microsoft Copilot,” Nadella reflected, explaining that this feature is accessible in other AI tools as well, like ChatGPT. “However, it’s not always seamless or obvious to most users. It can also be a challenge to find the transcript for a particular podcast, depending on where it’s published.” Nadella’s optimism stems from the belief that such innovative solutions can be found through persistent exploration and adaptation. His conversations with podcasts, while unconventional as they may seem, highlight the evolving nature of technology and its potential to transform daily life in surprising ways.