> It is far superior to the likes of Python, and would easily be the best in the areas of machine learning...
The fact that Python is the language of choice for ML makes it clear that technical superiority was not necessary or relevant. Python is the worst language around. The lack of better languages was never the problem. Making F# technically better wasn't going to make it the choice for ML.
Agreed. But MS has certainly some weight to throw around in their own ecosystem. They have their own offerings for data processing and ambitions for AI. If they want to integrate with .net, they are already set. But that requires vision.
Note that until the layoffs of the week predating BUILD, Microsoft was exactly one of the companies pushing for improving CPython performance.
This is why I always mention, when .NET team complains about adoption among new generations not going as desired they should look into their own employer first.
Why people still beat the dead horse of Python (performance) is beyond me.