Explore a modern alternative to std::string in this comprehensive conference talk from CppNow 2012. Dive into the limitations of std::string and discover Ustring, a new string class design that addresses common issues and incorporates powerful features for C++11. Learn about inflexible memory management, overload problems, and other constraints of the standard string implementation. Examine proposed solutions, including size optimization, assignment conversion, and improved compatibility with library containers. Participate in a brainstorming session to contribute ideas and shape the future of string handling in C++. Gain insights into random access improvements and missing features that could enhance string manipulation in modern C++ programming.