China’s O2O market is in the consolidation phase, and the competition is fierce. That, though, helps highlight why an advertising business model is sometimes so attractive, like, for example, the one that Facebook has. Plus, why the “Facebook has a problem with teens” narrative really isn’t a big deal
The AWS Platform, The Liability Shift Has Arrived, Samsung Pay Launches in the U.S.
With all the talk of platforms I’d be remiss in discussing what may be the most vibrant platform of all: AWS. Then, the liability shift arrives today, and a surprising number of merchants aren’t ready. Maybe Samsung Pay had the right strategy after all…or maybe not.
The Facebook Epoch
First came the PC, and on top of the PC the Internet. Then, mobile, but what will rule mobile?
What is Medium Doing?, Facebook Updates Notes
Medium just raised $57 million on a relatively modest valuation, but lots of folks aren’t still sure what the company is trying to accomplish: today I give it my best shot. Plus, Facebook has updated Notes, which look a lot like, well, Medium posts. The appearance, though, isn’t what will make them succeed or fail.
App Store Policy Follow-up, The iPad Pro, The iPad Pro Accessories
First, some follow-up on yesterday’s piece on App Store policies: I actually forgot some product holes, plus a defense of “shareware.” Then, the iPad Pro’s strategic justification and a review of it and its accessories.
From Products to Platforms
Apple was at its best in its most recent keynote: unveiling the sorts of products the company is uniquely capable of creating. The question, though, is whether the company has the vision and capability of making those products into platforms.
Facebook’s Impressive Consistency, Yelp’s Employee Problem
Facebook consistently delivers good results, which is why they get a lot of leeway from investors. Perhaps the latter aren’t as irrational as everyone thinks. Plus, Yelp’s big problem, and why it might affect Twitter.
The Funnel Framework
The Internet has removed scarcity, meaning business models based on controlling distribution are no longer viable. Instead, the key to success is controlling access to the best customers — and that means being the best.
Medium the Network, Automattic Buys WooCommerce, Google and the Value of Identity
This Daily Update examines Medium’s seeming pivot towards being a network instead of a publisher, which is a contrast to WordPress.com’s latest move towards e-commerce. Finally, a brief examination of why identity matters.
Apple Watch, Platforms, and Ecosystems; AdBlock Plus Launches Android Browser; Spotify and the Power of Labels
This update expands on my Apple Watch review by discussing the differences between platforms and ecosystems and why that matters for the Watch’s long-term success. Then, a revisit of the ad-blocking debate, and a discussion of why labels are more powerful now than previously.