More on Apple and restrictions on competition, and why it is different than Google. Then, Apple’s actions around vaping cross the line, plus why TikTok does not deserve the benefit of the doubt.
Integration and Monopoly
Apple has won through integration, but integration combined with network effects and economies of scale can result in bad outcomes that look a lot like monopolies.
Google Buys Fitbit, Why Fitbit is a Good Idea, Why It Isn’t
First some important updates about Stratechery, then Google is seeking to acquire Fitbit. Why the acquisition makes sense, and why it doesn’t.
Apple’s Earnings, iPhone Pricing, Additional Notes on Apple’s Earnings
Apple had another quarter where the iPhone didn’t dominate, plus more evidence that the company is thinking like a Services company.
Google and Ambient Computing
Google presented a vision of ambient computing that goes beyond the smartphone. The company is well-placed, but faces challenges both in the marketplace and in the mirror.
Microsoft’s Surface Event, Victors and History, Microsoft’s Hardware Prospects
Microsoft (eventually) selling a phone that runs Android is not particularly meaningful in terms of its impact financially but is a totem of a major shift culturally.
Beachheads and Obstacles
Facebook and Amazon had events on the same day for Oculus and Alexa. Both are driven by lessons from the mobile era, but Amazon seems to have learned more than Facebook.
The Apple Watch Tells Time, Additional Observations on Apple’s Event, Revisiting App Store Search
The “Always-on” Apple Watch update is an important one, additional notes from Apple’s event, and why the company is likely being honest about App Store Search
The iPhone and Apple’s Services Strategy
Apple’s annual iPhone event may have marked Apple’s true shift into being a Services company
Apple Versus Project Zero, Apple’s Poor Response, The China Paradox
Apple took on Google’s Project Zero over the weekend, and didn’t come out looking particularly good, particularly since China is a huge paradox for Apple.