The history of technology is of two distinct eras: information technology enhanced existing business. The Internet revolution is destroying them.
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).
Does Uber Have a Strategy Problem?, Netflix and Aggregation Theory, Google Trips
Is Uber bad at strategy? It would be understandable if they were. Then, Hollywood is finally realizing that Netflix is a textbook aggregator. Plus, why Google Trips exists
Google, Uber, and the Evolution of Transportation-as-a-Service
The competition between Uber and Google has broken out into the open: who has the advantage in the evolution of transportation-as-a-service, and who will likely win?
Dollar Shave Club and the Disruption of Everything
Dollar Shave Club is a textbook example of how the new Internet economy will destroy value in incumbent industries.
Netflix Earnings, Netflix and the Aggregation Dream
Netflix’s earnings were disappointing for reasons characteristic to disappointing earnings for all service companies. For Netflix, though, the stakes are higher.
Airbnb Raising Money, Airbnb and Hotels?, Airbnb Sues San Francisco
Airbnb is raising money, and if you view them as an OTA competitors, the valuation makes sense. Still, the company needs to address its externalities problem, and hotels could help.
TV Advertising’s Surprising Strength — And Inevitable Fall
TV advertising is having a good week at the upfronts, and it may be more resilient than expected. That, though, means the crash will be even more abrupt.
Microsoft and Apple Double Down
Both Microsoft and Apple made news yesterday, and while one was unexpected and the other predictable, both are effectively doubling down on their strategies. And both may not matter.