First some follow-up on Apple versus the FBI, then a discussion about how high-end Android is a distinct market, and how that impacts new phones from Xiaomi, Samsung, and LG. Finally, why Spotify’s move to Google makes sense.
2016
Apple, the FBI, and Security
Apple versus FBI is being framed as a debate between privacy and security. In fact, though, there is a powerful argument to be made that Apple’s position is the more secure one for the United States.
Bill Simmons to Launch ‘The Ringer’; More Media Notes on Yahoo, BuzzFeed, Vox
Bill Simmons’ new site looks to take an integrated approach to money-making. Plus, strategies for content creators with examples from Yahoo, BuzzFeed, and Vox
Exponent Podcast: Weighing and Voting
On Exponent, the weekly podcast I host with James Allworth, we discuss Zenefits and Regulation. Listen to it here.
Why New iPhones Are Also Vulnerable, This Case is Not About Encryption, Battles Versus Wars
Apple clarified off-the-record that new phones would also be covered by the precedent of the FBI’s request, which explains why they are drawing a line in the sand. Said line, though, is not about encryption. That is important because encryption could be the ultimate victim.
Apple Versus the FBI, Understanding iPhone Encryption, The Risks for Apple and Encryption
Apple is in a face-off with the FBI; understanding what is at issue, and the long-term risks Apple faces.
Kanye West and Tidal, The Problem with Exclusivity, Pandora for Sale?
Kanye West says his new album will be available exclusively on Tidal, which doesn’t make sense for consumers or for West as either a businessman or an artist. Then, Pandora is yet another advertising-based business to feel the heat, and it’s exacerbated by backwards-looking labels
Zenefits and Regulation
Zenefits fired its CEO after violating a number of regulations, and many people are drawing a connection to Uber. In fact, I think the situations are quite different; understanding why gives a framework for thinking about regulation.
Exponent Podcast: You Don’t Know What You Don’t Know
On Exponent, the weekly podcast I host with James Allworth, we discuss The Reality of Missing Out. Listen to it here.
Twitter Earnings; Twitter Retrenches; Facebook, Andreessen and India
Twitter’s earnings had good and bad parts, and one big red flag. More interesting was the company’s decision to retrench and own “live.” Then, how Facebook and Marc Andreessen managed to screw up so badly.