The speaker, Stuart Allen, talked about his experience with open source software development and his interest in the idea of not having to install software on the desktop. He demonstrated his web-based application called Kirimoto, which is a multi-modal application that includes functionalities for 3D printing, CAM, laser cutting, and MSLA printing. He also showed how Kirimoto can be integrated into other platforms like Onshape for CAD modeling and CAM operations. Additionally, he discussed the use of progressive web apps and the challenges of cross-platform application development.