This week on the GeekWire radio show and podcast, we talk about Microsoft’s plan to develop a new Kinect device for Windows PCs, a research firm’s prediction that the iPad will lift Apple to the top of the personal computer market in 2012, and John’s discussion-generating commentary on the need for a top-notch, tech-oriented private university in the Seattle region.

Joining us as a guest is Curt Woodward, who covers the Seattle tech scene as a senior editor at Xconomy. We talk about the influx of Silicon Valley companies and how it’s changing the region’s tech community, get Curt to compare the Seattle tech beat to his previous job covering state politics for the Associated Press, and assess the uncertain fate of the Seattle region’s largest wireless companies.

Then it’s our app of the week — just in time for holiday shopping — a new installment of our Name that Tech Tune challenge, and the answer to last week’s contest.

Listen to the show above or directly via this MP3 file.

Show Notes: Headlines and links for more info on the topics we discussed:

Xconomy’s Curt Woodward

Microsoft plans special Kinect hardware for Windows

What Seattle really needs: A world-class private tech university

Prediction: Apple to become biggest PC vendor in 2012 … if the iPad is a PC

Curt Woodward: Xconomy SeattleMobile Madness Northwest@curtwoodward on Twitter.

App of the Week: Decide.

Name that Tech Tune: Can you hear a ringtone in this piano? … Last week’s answer: Ms. Pac-Man.

Like what you're reading? Subscribe to GeekWire's free newsletters to catch every headline

Job Listings on GeekWork

Find more jobs on GeekWork. Employers, post a job here.