Just as encryption is only viable on closed systems, so it is that increased privacy regulations will only entrench walled gardens. That should affect thinking on regulation.
2018
Google Earnings, Google’s Cost Drivers, Other Bets Versus Google Ventures
Google’s Earnings show rapidly rising expenses, which makes sense as the company seeks to grow outside of its core competency. Plus, why even Google is often better off investing instead of expanding.
Google’s Messaging Announcement, Allo’s Go-to-Market Problem, Chat: The Open Alternative
Google’s announced Chat, which is not a new messaging service but the adoption of a new messaging protocol to replace SMS. It’s not an ideal outcome, but the only possible one.
Netflix Earnings and the Video Value Chain, The Conditions of Aggregation, Comcast and Netflix and the New Bundle
Netflix’s earnings are a reminder of the power that comes from not just aggregation but also integration. It also reveals that Aggregators are more likely to gain economic power when suppliers are already modularized. Plus, Netflix and Comcast start to build the new bundle.
The ZTE Ban, Tech’s Trade War Risk, China’s Delayed Approval and Apple’s Pain
The U.S. government banned companies from selling to ZTE for issues unrelated to the current trade war; that may not much matter, and Apple and other U.S. tech companies could soon feel the pain.
Zillow, Aggregation, and Integration
Zillow fits the description of an aggregator, but it hasn’t transformed its industry due to a lack of integration. Now it is trying to do exactly that.
Exponent Podcast: Facebook Fatigue
On Exponent, the weekly podcast I host with James Allworth, we discuss The Facebook Current. Listen to it here.
Zuckerberg’s House Hearing, Toutiao’s Apology, Apple’s Siri Hire
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg was back on the hill, using his usual talking points; the contrast with a Chinese news app, facing its own political pressure, was striking. Plus, why Apple’s Siri hire is so important.
The Facebook Current
The Senate hearing about Facebook was a bigger deal than it might have seemed, both because it happened and because of what was said.
Uber Acquires JUMP, Background on Bikes, Uber’s New Strategy?
Uber has acquired JUMP, the dockless e-bike company. It’s an acquisition that makes sense for both sides, and suggests that Uber has a more coherent strategy than previously.