Microsoft’s Project AirSim pushes drone simulation software to new heights

New heights for autonomous flights: Microsoft’s cloud-based simulation platform, Project AirSim, offers a way to put a drone’s control software through its paces millions of times before the first takeoff. The platform can take advantage of data from Bing Maps and other providers, plus processing power from Microsoft Azure, to create detailed virtual 3-D environments. “It’s going to be one of the tools that will accelerate the timeline for scaling aerial mobility,” one customer said. Read more.

Washington No. 2 in business rankings: The state moved up seven slots in the CNBC rankings, with the technology industry, overall economy, and workforce propelling Washington up a list topped by North Carolina. Read more.

Breaking from ‘the Bezos way’: The New York Times has a new report looking at how Amazon CEO Andy Jassy differs in his approach compared to founder Jeff Bezos — especially when it comes to the company’s regulatory and political challenges in Washington, D.C.

GeekWire Podcast: A new book by Seattle entrepreneur Julie Pham details the practical applications and benefits of the “7 Forms of Respect” in the workplace. We spoke with Pham on the latest GeekWire Podcast episode.

EV charging requirements: New and remodeled apartments in the Seattle area will be required to make a certain percentage of parking spaces capable of charging electric vehicles, according to rules approved by lawmakers.

Back-to-office uncertainty impacts office plans: Some companies are seeing employees continuing to work from home more than previously expected, causing them to reconsider their mix of private offices and shared workspaces. Last week Amazon said it will pause construction on five towers in Bellevue, Wash., where it still plans to employ 25,000 people.