Apple’s business model lets the company sell privacy, but privacy shouldn’t compromise the business model. Plus, why developers can (still) deepen Apple’s moat, and how the chip, payments, and even publishing industry are similar.
Apple’s Strengths and Weaknesses
Both Apple’s strengths and weaknesses were on full display at its annual WWDC keynote; the HomePod is a perfect example.
Snap Earnings, Seasonality Versus Maturity, Snap’s Missing Business
Snap’s earnings were far worse than expected: not only is user growth slowing, but so is revenue. The company needs to build a real business far more quickly.
Apple Announcements, iPhone Strategy vs iPod Strategy, Clips
Apple had several announcements that were relatively boring from a product perspective but very interesting when it comes to strategy. Plus, its new “Clips” app may point to new products in the future.
Apple Earnings, Fitbit Earnings, Nintendo Earnings
Apple’s earnings showed slowing growth but a seemingly impenetrable moat; Fitbit, meanwhile, is in very bad shape, while Nintendo is learning harsh truths about the smartphone market
Opendoor Follow-up, Fitbit Buys Pebble Assets, GoPro Closes Entertainment Unit
The point of writing about Opendoor was to praise the ambition for the very reason that it might not work. Then, hardware continues to be hard: Pebble is out of business, and GoPro is in very big trouble.
Snapchat Spectacles “Launch”, Facebook’s Real Problem
Recent news about Snapchat (Spectacles) and Facebook (its effect on elections) couldn’t be more different; that’s why they are, in fact, related.
Spotify to Buy Soundcloud?, Apple Logs iMessage Contacts, Aetna and Apple Watch
Once you understand Spotify’s long-term business model buying Soundcloud makes a lot of sense. Then, Apple didn’t do anything wrong with iMessages, other than show they’re (rightfully) not privacy absolutists. Plus a few quick words on a big deal with Aetna.
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).