Roku’s origin story explain Netflix’s strategic acumen — which, by extension, explains why Roku is a risky bet. Then, Roku explains “weak” aggregators, that aren’t really aggregators at all.
Books and Blogs
Blogs are no longer a writing platform for new entrants; they are better than books for the ongoing development of ideas.
Google’s HTC Deal, HTC — and Google’s — Motivations, Apple Watch and Apple Memory
Google has made a rather odd deal with HTC — basically an acquihire. What are the two company’s motivations? Then, Apple Watch news and reviews, and a smartphone-related acquisition that is actually more important than Google’s.
Everything is Changing; So Should Antitrust
WPP is dealing with not only a changing advertising industry but a changing world, thanks to the Internet. Antitrust needs to change as well.
ARCore, Google’s Benefit to Apple, AR’s Killer App and Apple’s Business Model
Google announced ARCore, which is basically copying ARKit (and abandoning Project Tango). The company that stands to benefit the most from the news is actually Apple.
Disney’s Choice
Cable TV created a world where differentiated content could profit from everyone; that is why it will be hard for Disney to make the choices streaming will force on them.
Apple and the Oak Tree
Apple’s business, thanks to Services, is growing ever stronger, even as Apple loses the model — and the product — that made the company what it is today.
Facebook Messenger Rolling Out Ads, Facebook’s Product Development Strategy, How Should Messenger Monetize?
Facebook Messenger is rolling out display ads that feel like a shortcut to monetization, a discouraging sign for both the short and long term.
YouTube and the iPhone, Facebook Wins Privacy Case
The lessons that can be learned from YouTube and the iPhone, plus Facebook’s problematic victory in a privacy case.
Bill Gurley Leaves Uber’s Board, Uber Adds Tipping, Chris Lattner Leaves Tesla
Bill Gurley ultimately believes in the Uber idea, and it probably cost both Kalanick and him their jobs. Then, why it’s a problem that Uber is adding tipping, plus the news that Chris Lattner is leaving Tesla.