It seems odd that Google is keeping Android at arms’ length from the Pixel Phone, but that is because Google’s goal is a different sort of product than the iPhone. It also explains why Samsung brought Viv. Plus, Google Home and Google’s integration.
2016
Google and the Limits of Strategy
Google went wrong in the past by abandoning their horizontal business model; are they repeating their mistake, or does the future give them no choice?
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, Marketplace Potential, What is Facebook?
Facebook launched Marketplace, which is fairly described as a Craigslist competitor. The potential, though, is greater; what is even more interesting is what this says about Facebook’s perception of itself.
Spotify Follow-up, Nutanix and Hyper-Convergence, The Conservation of Attractive Data-Center Profits
A correction and follow-up on Spotify, and why the streaming service and the labels need each other. Then, the theory behind Nutanix and hyper-convergence in the data center.
Exponent Podcast: Fashionable to Be Cynical
On Exponent, the weekly podcast I host with James Allworth, we follow-up on Facebook versus the media, and then dive into Spectacles and what makes for a compelling product. Listen to it here.
Spotify to Buy Soundcloud?, Apple Logs iMessage Contacts, Aetna and Apple Watch
Once you understand Spotify’s long-term business model buying Soundcloud makes a lot of sense. Then, Apple didn’t do anything wrong with iMessages, other than show they’re (rightfully) not privacy absolutists. Plus a few quick words on a big deal with Aetna.
Wearable Follow-Up, Google’s Amazon Problem, Marriott and SPG Combine Loyalty Programs
A follow-up about wearables to remind folks that the smartphone still matters. Then, why mobile is a struggle for Google, illustrated by Amazon. Plus, Marriott and SPG are finally together, and it’s clear they (rightly) want to own the customer relationship
Snapchat Spectacles and the Future of Wearables
Creating the future is not just about technology but about creating markets. Right now Snapchat is doing that as well as anyone, which bodes well for Spectacles (but don’t count out Apple).
How the Snap Spectacles Story Broke, Facebook Overestimated Video Metric
The botched rollout of the Wall Street Journal’s Snap Spectacles story shows how media companies have to be more disciplined in their approach. Plus, why there’s no way Facebook screwed up its metrics on purpose.
Exponent Podcast: Move On from the 80s
On Exponent, the weekly podcast I host with James Allworth, we discuss Oracle’s Cloudy Future. Listen to it here.