#cost effective app marketing company

[phantomrose96]

If anyone wants to know why every tech company in the world right now is clamoring for AI like drowned rats scrabbling to board a ship, I decided to make a post to explain what's happening.

(Disclaimer to start: I'm a software engineer who's been employed full time since 2018. I am not a historian nor an overconfident Youtube essayist, so this post is my working knowledge of what I see around me and the logical bridges between pieces.)

Okay anyway. The explanation starts further back than what's going on now. I'm gonna start with the year 2000. The Dot Com Bubble just spectacularly burst. The model of "we get the users first, we learn how to profit off them later" went out in a no-money-having bang (remember this, it will be relevant later). A lot of money was lost. A lot of people ended up out of a job. A lot of startup companies went under. Investors left with a sour taste in their mouth and, in general, investment in the internet stayed pretty cooled for that decade. This was, in my opinion, very good for the internet as it was an era not suffocating under the grip of mega-corporation oligarchs and was, instead, filled with Club Penguin and I Can Haz Cheezburger websites.

Then around the 2010-2012 years, a few things happened. Interest rates got low, and then lower. Facebook got huge. The iPhone took off. And suddenly there was a huge new potential market of internet users and phone-havers, and the cheap money was available to start backing new tech startup companies trying to hop on this opportunity. Companies like Uber, Netflix, and Amazon either started in this time, or hit their ramp-up in these years by shifting focus to the internet and apps.

Now, every start-up tech company dreaming of being the next big thing has one thing in common: they need to start off by getting themselves massively in debt. Because before you can turn a profit you need to first spend money on employees and spend money on equipment and spend money on data centers and spend money on advertising and spend money on scale and and and

But also, everyone wants to be on the ship for The Next Big Thing that takes off to the moon.

So there is a mutual interest between new tech companies, and venture capitalists who are willing to invest $$$ into said new tech companies. Because if the venture capitalists can identify a prize pig and get in early, that money could come back to them 100-fold or 1,000-fold. In fact it hardly matters if they invest in 10 or 20 total bust projects along the way to find that unicorn.

But also, becoming profitable takes time. And that might mean being in debt for a long long time before that rocket ship takes off to make everyone onboard a gazzilionaire.

But luckily, for tech startup bros and venture capitalists, being in debt in the 2010's was cheap, and it only got cheaper between 2010 and 2020. If people could secure loans for ~3% or 4% annual interest, well then a $100,000 loan only really costs $3,000 of interest a year to keep afloat. And if inflation is higher than that or at least similar, you're still beating the system.

So from 2010 through early 2022, times were good for tech companies. Startups could take off with massive growth, showing massive potential for something, and venture capitalists would throw infinite money at them in the hopes of pegging just one winner who will take off. And supporting the struggling investments or the long-haulers remained pretty cheap to keep funding.

You hear constantly about "Such and such app has 10-bazillion users gained over the last 10 years and has never once been profitable", yet the thing keeps chugging along because the investors backing it aren't stressed about the immediate future, and are still banking on that "eventually" when it learns how to really monetize its users and turn that profit.

The pandemic in 2020 took a magnifying-glass-in-the-sun effect to this, as EVERYTHING was forcibly turned online which pumped a ton of money and workers into tech investment. Simultaneously, money got really REALLY cheap, bottoming out with historic lows for interest rates.

Then the tide changed with the massive inflation that struck late 2021. Because this all-gas no-brakes state of things was also contributing to off-the-rails inflation (along with your standard-fare greedflation and price gouging, given the extremely convenient excuses of pandemic hardships and supply chain issues). The federal reserve whipped out interest rate hikes to try to curb this huge inflation, which is like a fire extinguisher dousing and suffocating your really-cool, actively-on-fire party where everyone else is burning but you're in the pool. And then they did this more, and then more. And the financial climate followed suit. And suddenly money was not cheap anymore, and new loans became expensive, because loans that used to compound at 2% a year are now compounding at 7 or 8% which, in the language of compounding, is a HUGE difference. A $100,000 loan at a 2% interest rate, if not repaid a single cent in 10 years, accrues to $121,899. A $100,000 loan at an 8% interest rate, if not repaid a single cent in 10 years, more than doubles to $215,892.

Now it is scary and risky to throw money at "could eventually be profitable" tech companies. Now investors are watching companies burn through their current funding and, when the companies come back asking for more, investors are tightening their coin purses instead. The bill is coming due. The free money is drying up and companies are under compounding pressure to produce a profit for their waiting investors who are now done waiting.

You get enshittification. You get quality going down and price going up. You get "now that you're a captive audience here, we're forcing ads or we're forcing subscriptions on you." Don't get me wrong, the plan was ALWAYS to monetize the users. It's just that it's come earlier than expected, with way more feet-to-the-fire than these companies were expecting. ESPECIALLY with Wall Street as the other factor in funding (public) companies, where Wall Street exhibits roughly the same temperament as a baby screaming crying upset that it's soiled its own diaper (maybe that's too mean a comparison to babies), and now companies are being put through the wringer for anything LESS than infinite growth that Wall Street demands of them.

Internal to the tech industry, you get MASSIVE wide-spread layoffs. You get an industry that used to be easy to land multiple job offers shriveling up and leaving recent graduates in a desperately awful situation where no company is hiring and the market is flooded with laid-off workers trying to get back on their feet.

Because those coin-purse-clutching investors DO love virtue-signaling efforts from companies that say "See! We're not being frivolous with your money! We only spend on the essentials." And this is true even for MASSIVE, PROFITABLE companies, because those companies' value is based on the Rich Person Feeling Graph (their stock) rather than the literal profit money. A company making a genuine gazillion dollars a year still tears through layoffs and freezes hiring and removes the free batteries from the printer room (totally not speaking from experience, surely) because the investors LOVE when you cut costs and take away employee perks. The "beer on tap, ping pong table in the common area" era of tech is drying up. And we're still unionless.

Never mind that last part.

And then in early 2023, AI (more specifically, Chat-GPT which is OpenAI's Large Language Model creation) tears its way into the tech scene with a meteor's amount of momentum. Here's Microsoft's prize pig, which it invested heavily in and is galivanting around the pig-show with, to the desperate jealousy and rapture of every other tech company and investor wishing it had that pig. And for the first time since the interest rate hikes, investors have dollar signs in their eyes, both venture capital and Wall Street alike. They're willing to restart the hose of money (even with the new risk) because this feels big enough for them to take the risk.

Now all these companies, who were in varying stages of sweating as their bill came due, or wringing their hands as their stock prices tanked, see a single glorious gold-plated rocket up out of here, the likes of which haven't been seen since the free money days. It's their ticket to buy time, and buy investors, and say "see THIS is what will wring money forth, finally, we promise, just let us show you."

To be clear, AI is NOT profitable yet. It's a money-sink. Perhaps a money-black-hole. But everyone in the space is so wowed by it that there is a wide-spread and powerful conviction that it will become profitable and earn its keep. (Let's be real, half of that profit "potential" is the promise of automating away jobs of pesky employees who peskily cost money.) It's a tech-space industrial revolution that will automate away skilled jobs, and getting in on the ground floor is the absolute best thing you can do to get your pie slice's worth.

It's the thing that will win investors back. It's the thing that will get the investment money coming in again (or, get it second-hand if the company can be the PROVIDER of something needed for AI, which other companies with venture-back will pay handsomely for). It's the thing companies are terrified of missing out on, lest it leave them utterly irrelevant in a future where not having AI-integration is like not having a mobile phone app for your company or not having a website.

So I guess to reiterate on my earlier point:

Drowned rats. Swimming to the one ship in sight.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

How Amazon transformed the EU into a planned economy

Amazon is a perfect parable of enshittification, the process by which platforms first offer subsidies to end users until they’re locked in, then make life good for business customers at users’ expense, until they’re locked in, then claw back all the value they can for themselves, leaving just enough behind to keep the lock-in going.

In a new report for SOMO, Margarida Silva describes how the end-stage enshittification of Amazon is playing out in the EU, with Amazon repeating its US playbook of gouging the small businesses who have no choice but to use the platform in order to reach its locked-in customers, making European customers and European sellers poorer:

https://www.somo.nl/amazons-european-chokehold/

The mechanism for this isn’t a mystery. Amazon boasts about it! They call it their flywheel: first, customers are lured into the platform with low prices, especially through Prime, which requires pre-payment for a year’s shipping, which virtually guarantees that customers will start their shopping on Amazon. Because customers now start their buying on Amazon, sellers have to be there. The increased range of goods for sale on Amazon lures in more buyers, who lure in more sellers, with both sides holding each other hostage:

https://vimeo.com/739486256/00a0a7379a

This flywheel creates a vicious cycle, starving local retail so that customers can’t get what they need from brick-and-mortar shops, which funnels sellers into offering their goods for sale on Amazon. The less choice customers and sellers have about where they shop, the more Amazon can abuse both to pad its own bottom line.

There are 800,000 EU-based sellers on Amazon, and they have seen the junk-fees that Amazon charges them skyrocket, to the point where they have to raise prices or lose money on each sale. Amazon uses both tacit and explicit “Most Favored Nation” deals to hide these price-hikes. Under an MFN deal, sellers must not allow their goods to be sold at a lower price than Amazon’s — so when they raise prices to cover Amazon’s increasing fees, they raise them everywhere:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/25/greedflation/

It’s not hard to understand why Amazon would raise its fees: the company has an effective e-commerce monopoly. Like Ozymandias, they have run out of worlds to conquer, and so their growth has to come from squeezing suppliers and/or raising prices, not from bringing in new customers. This is likewise true of mobile companies like Apple and Google, who have run out of people who are so excited about incremental mobile hardware gains that they’ll buy a new phone every year, which means that growth has to come from squeezing app vendors:

https://www.tbray.org/ongoing/When/202x/2023/06/09/Pixel-4-to-7

This is likewise true of the streaming companies, which is why Netflix is cracking down on “password sharing”:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/02/nonbinary-families/#red-envelopes

It’s true of the movie studios, which is why they want to zero out their wage bills by replacing writers with automatic plausible sentence generators that will write stupid movies that they think we’ll still pay to see because there won’t be anything else:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/05/06/people-are-not-disposable/#union-strong

It’s certainly true of Uber, which is why they’ve double the cost of a taxi ride and halved the wages they pay drivers:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/12/algorithmic-wage-discrimination/#fishers-of-men

Monopolies “grow” by making their customers and suppliers worse off. But they have to be careful about this: if it’s obvious that you’re using your market power to screw buyers, you can get in trouble with competition regulators. That’s because the only part of antitrust law that the neoliberal project left intact is “consumer welfare” — the idea that monopolies should only face enforcement when they raise prices and/or lower quality:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/10/10/play-fair/#bedoya

This focus on price-hikes has given monopolists a free hand to squeeze suppliers and workers, because a monopolist — from Walmart to Amazon — can claim that squeezing your workers and suppliers is necessary to enhancing consumer welfare. The less you pay to produce a product, the cheaper you can price it.

When a company has a lot of seller power, we call it a monopolist. When it has a lot of buying power, we call it a monopsonist. No one ever made a bestselling, family-destroying board game called “Monopsony” so most people haven’t heard of the concept. But monopsony is every bit as dangerous as monopoly, and monopsonists find it far easier to acquire market power than monopolists. Few suppliers can afford to have even 10% of their sales disappear overnight, so a buyer who accounts for 10% of your sales can demand deep discounts and other favorable terms.

Amazon is a monopolist, but it’s also a very powerful and ruthless monopsonist. For example, its audiobook division, Audible, has a 90+% market-share, and it used that market-power to steal at least $100m from audiobook creators, in a scandal dubbed Audiblegate:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/09/07/audible-exclusive/#audiblegate

For Europe’s 800k sellers who rely on Amazon to reach their customers, the monoposony conditions are blatant and shameless. Take listing fees: Amazon’s “flywheel” pitch claims that as the company grows, it achieves “economies of scale” that can lower its cost basis. But Amazon’s listing fees haven’t changed, even as the company experienced explosive growth in the EU (remember, sellers whose Amazon fees exceed their margins have to pass those fees onto buyers, and also raise their prices everywhere else to satisfy the Most Favored Nation requirement).

Amazon books the revenues from these fees — and other junk-fees it extracts from sellers — in Luxembourg, an EU member nation that provides a tax haven to multinational businesses that want to maintain the fiction that they operate their businesses out of the tiny kingdom. There is sharp competition in the EU to offer the most servile, corrupt environment for multinationals, and Luxembourg is a leader, along with Cyprus, Malta and, of course, Ireland:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/05/15/finnegans-snooze/#dirty-old-town

But at least listing fees haven’t gone up, unlike other fees, which have climbed sharply. Amazon falsely claimed that its additional revenues from fees were the result of growth by independent sellers, which Amazon pegged at 65%. Later, the company admitted that the true growth figure was 22%. Meanwhile, fees are up 85%.

The true growth figure might be lower still. Amazon refuses to show the math behind its growth figures, or even say which sellers and sales are included in the figure.

The SOMO report cites research by Juozas Kaziukėnas of the e-commerce research firm Marketplace Pulse, who finds that sellers are now giving 50% of their gross revenues to Amazon, an increase of 10% over the past five years across the whole EU. However, different EU (and ex-EU) countries have experienced much steeper increases in fees — in the UK, fees have nearly doubled (up 98%), and in France, fees more than doubled (up 115%).

Many of these increases come from the Fulfilment By Amazon (FBA) program, which is promoted as an optional service, but which is really obligatory — careful research shows that sellers who warehouse, pack and ship their own goods get banished to the depths of search results, even if they have ratings, costs and times that are competitive with FBA. This is especially true of the “buy box” that lands at the top of most searches. The company refuses to disclose how buy box positioning is determined, but 90% of products in the buy box pay for FBA.

Amazon has used excuseflation to hike its FBA prices, blaming higher energy prices for price hikes that predated the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and blaming covid for price hikes that predated the pandemic.

Italy’s competition authority did yeoman service in uncovering the sleaze of FBA, publishing an investigation that showed that Prime and buy box made the notionally “optional” FBA into a must-have for merchants, meaning that Amazon could jack up FBA prices without losing business.

Another notable source of gouging came in response to the UK and France adopting digital services taxes, which were meant to make up for the tax-base erosion enabled by Luxembourg’s flouting of EU tax law. Amazon passed these taxes straight through to its merchants, without seeing a comparable decrease in the number of sellers using its platforms — an unmistakable sign of market power. If you can raise prices without losing customers, then, by definition, your customers have nowhere else to go.

I’ve previously written about how Amazon’s $31b/year “advertising” market isn’t really advertising — rather, it’s a payola scheme that auctions off the top of a search-listing to the merchant with the most to spend:

https://pluralistic.net/2022/11/28/enshittification/#relentless-payola

This is how you get a simple search like “cat beds” returning results whose first screen is 100% ads, and whose next five screens are 50% ads, many of them for dog products:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/technology/interactive/2022/amazon-shopping-ads/

Auctioning off search results means that every time you search for something you want, you have to wade through screen after screen of listings for products whose vendors spent more on advertising, leaving less to spend on making quality goods.

This is as true in the EU as it is in the USA. The SOMO report shows that European merchants are required to spend ever-larger sums to show up in results for the exact products they sell, leaving them with a choice between making less money, raising prices, or skimping on quality.

But even the “winners” of Amazon’s gladiatorial combat among vendors can still lose. Amazon uses an automated product removal process that can delete some or all of a merchant’s products, without warning or explanation, and no one at Amazon will explain what a merchant did wrong. That remains true even if a vendor pays for Amazon’s “marketplace consultant” service — ask these paid Virgils why you’ve been cast into Amazon’s pit, and they’ll shrug their shoulders (and bill you for it).

And even if you can navigate the junk fees, the Kafka-as-a-service removals, the war of all sellers against all sellers for search primacy…you still lose. Merchants told SOMO that a product that survives Amazon’s gauntlet is likely to be cloned by Amazon and sold as an Amazon Basic or other house-brand product. Amazon doesn’t charge itself 50% junk fees, so it can always underprice the vendors it knocks off, and give its own products permanent top-of-search placement.

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos once testified under oath before Congress that this doesn’t happen — and then refused to return to Congress when multiple vendors showed evidence that he’d lied:

https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2021/10/18/amazon-congress-letter-third-party-data/

He definitely lied:

https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/amazon-india-rigging/

Amazon has faced investigations and enforcement in the EU over this, and settled a claim with a promise to “not use non-public seller data to compete with sellers,” but given the company’s record of broken promises on this score and the difficulty of catching them cheating, it’s pretty naive to think they’ll stick to this.

The report quotes Thomas Höppner, a lawyer who has represented small businesses that Amazon screwed over. Höppner says the problem is that the EU evaluates Amazon’s bad deeds on a “case-by-case” basis, missing the big picture: “By the time one identified problem was seemingly solved, Amazon had long made amendments elsewhere with the same effect. We require a more holistic approach that considers the entire Amazon ecosystem and the various interdependencies within.”

But the EU’s enforcement approach is about to change significantly. The EU just passed the Digital Markets Act (DMA), which imposes a bunch of obligations on Amazon:

allowing sellers to offer their products on other marketplaces at different prices (Article 5.3),

not obliging business users to pay for one of its services in order to use its platform (Article 5.8),

limiting the way Amazon uses non-public seller data to compete with them (Article 6.2)

preventing Amazon from giving top billing in search results to its own products or sellers that have acquired extra Amazon services (Article 6.5)

The report concludes with a suite of recommendations for improving EU enforcement. First, they argue for a return to traditional competition law, abandoning the “consumer welfare standard” that is so friendly to monopsonies and their abuses of suppliers and workers.

They call for a probe into Amazon’s Most Favored Nation deals (“fair pricing policy”), the practice of sponsoring search results, and spiraling fees. They want the EU to adequately fund DMA enforcement, with “measures to prevent regulatory capture.” And they want Amazon to publish clear explanations for how search results, buy box placement, and other practices hidden behind a veil of secrecy.

Amazon will doubtless claim that disclosing how those systems work will make it easier for spammers and scammers to game their way to the top of search results. We should be skeptical of this claim — content moderation is the last domain where anyone takes the bankrupt idea of security through obscurity seriously:

https://doctorow.medium.com/como-is-infosec-307f87004563

Finally, the report calls for breaking up Amazon, forcing it to choose between being a platform seller or a platform user, calling this the only way to “prevent the conflicts of interest between its role as a platform intermediary, seller, and service provider.”

The technical term for this measure is “structural separation” — a rule that bans platform companies from competing with their business customers. This is the principle at work in the US bipartisan AMERICA Act, which would force Google and Meta to spin off the parts of their ad-tech business that put them in a conflict of interest. Right now, Googbook represents both publishers and advertisers, while operating the marketplace where ad sales take place, and they take 51% out of every ad dollar:

https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2023/05/save-news-we-must-shatter-ad-tech

Structural separation hasn’t really been applied in the US for a generation, but it’s gained currency in recent years, for the obvious reason that the referee can’t also own one of the teams. I was in Germany last week speaking to regulators and politicians, and they espoused skepticism that the EU would embrace structural separation anytime soon.

But they were wrong! Today, the European Commission announced plans to force Google and Meta to sell off their conflict-of-interest ad-tech lines of business, mirroring the provisions of the US AMERICA Act:

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2023/06/google-may-soon-be-ordered-to-break-up-its-lucrative-ad-business-eu-warns/

Structural separation really is the policy we should be demanding. It’s amazing that lawyers who would never argue a case in front of a judge who was married to the plaintiff will turn around and defend the idea that Amazon can fairly operate a marketplace where they compete with other sellers.

With Amazon dominating online sales, and with in-person retail cratering, Amazon’s decisions have the power to determine the outcome of whole swathes of Europe’s economy. This is the “planned economy” that the EU claims it detests and seeks to prevent — but it’s an economy planned by distant autocrats in a Seattle boardroom, for the purpose of extracting the surpluses needed to launch an endless procession of penis-rockets.

If you’d like an essay-formatted version of this postto read or share, here’s a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/06/14/flywheel-shyster-and-flywheel/#unfulfilled-by-amazon

[Image ID: A desert ruin. In the foreground is a huge Amazon box, with an EU flag in place of its shipping label. Atop the box are the feet and partial legs of an Oxymandias figure.]

Image: Rama (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Gladiator_with_sword-Louis_Ernest_Meissonnier-MG_1216-IMG_1223-white.jpg

CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/fr/deed.en

[racefortheironthrone]

Hey, what does disruptor mean? I saw it when looking at your answers. I’ve also seen people joke about it on twitter but I can’t find a meaning to it.

It's a term I personally loathe, but I'm willing to do some recent cultural/intellectual history to explain where it came from and what it means.

The term disruptor as it's commonly used today comes out of the business world, more specifically the high tech sector clustered in Silicon Valley. Originally coined as "disruptive innovation" by business school professor Clayton Christensen in the mid-to-late 90s, the idea was that certain new businesses (think your prototypical startup) have a greater tendency to develop innovative technologies and business models that radically destabilize established business models, markets, and large corporations - and in the process, help to speed up economic and technological progress.

While Christensen's work was actually about business models and firm-level behavior, over time this concept mutated to focus on the individual entrepeneur/inventor/founder figure of the "disruptor," as part of the lionization of people like Steve Jobs or Mark Zuckerburg or Elon Musk, or firms like Lyft, Uber, WeWork, Theranos, etc. It also mutated into a general belief that "disrupting" markets and, increasingly, social institutions is how society will and should progress.

I find these ideas repellant. First of all, when it comes to the actual business side of things, I think it mythologizes corporate executives as creative geniuses by attributing credit for innovations actually created by the people they employ. Elon Musk didn't create electric cars or reusable rockets, Steve Jobs didn't design any computers or program any OSes, but because they're considered "disruptors," we pretend that they did. This has a strong effect on things like support for taxing the rich - because there is this popular image of the "self-made billionaire" as someone who "earned" their wealth through creating "disruptive" companies or technologies, there is more resistance to taxing or regulating the mega-wealthy than would otherwise be the case.

Even more importantly, treating "disruptors" like heroes and "disruption" as a purely good thing tends to make people stop thinking about whether disruption to a given industry is actually a good thing, whether what tech/Silicon Valley/startup firms are doing is actually innovative, what the economic and social costs of the disruption are, and who pays them. Because when we look at a bunch of high-profile case studies, it often turns out to be something of a case of smoke and mirrors.

To take ridesharing as an example, Lyft and Uber and similar companies aren't actually particularly innovative. Yes, they have apps that connect riders to drivers, but that's not actually that different from the old school method of using the phone to call up a livery cab company. There's a lot of claims about how the apps improve route planning or the availability of drivers or bring down prices, but they're usually overblown: route planning software is pretty common (think Google Maps), when you actually look at how Lyft and Uber create availability, it's by flooding the market with large numbers of new drivers, and when you look at how they got away with low prices, it was usually by spending billions upon billions of venture capital money on subsidizing their rides.

Moreover, this "disruption" has a pretty nasty dark side. To start with, Lyft and Uber's business strategy is actually a classic 19th century monopoly strategy dressed up in 21st century rhetoric: the "low prices" had nothing to do with innovative practices or new technology, it was Lyft and Uber pulling the classic move of deliberately selling at a loss to grab market share from the competition, at which point they started raising their prices on consumers. Availability of drivers was accomplished by luring way too many new drivers into the labor market with false promises of making high wages in their spare time, but when the over-supply of drivers inevitably caused incomes to decline, huge numbers of rideshare drivers found themselves trapped by auto debts and exploited by the companies' taking a significant chunk of their earnings, using the threat of cutting them off from the app to cow any resistance. And above all, Lyft and Uber's "disruption" often came down to a willful refusal to abide by pre-existing regulations meant to ensure that drivers could earn a living wage, that consumers would be protected in the case of accidents or from the bad behavior of drivers, etc. As a policy historian, however, I find the extension of "disruption" into social institutions the most troubling. Transportation, health care, education, etc. are absolutely vital for the functioning of modern society and are incredibly complex systems that require a lot of expertise and experience to understand, let alone change. Letting a bunch of billionaires impose technocratic "reforms" on them from above, simply because they say they're really smart or because they donate a bunch of money, is a really bad idea - especially because when we see what the "disruptors" actually propose and/or do, it often shows them to be very ordinary (if not actively stupid) people who don't really know what they're doing.

Elon Musk's Loop is an inherently worse idea than mass transit. His drive for self-driving cars is built on lies. Pretty much all of the Silicon Valley firms that have tried to "disrupt" in the area of transportation end up reinventing the wheel and proposing the creation of buses or trolleys or subways.

Theranos was a giant fraud that endangered the lives of thousands in pursuit of an impossible goal that, even if it ould have been achieved, wouldn't have made much of a difference in people's lives compared to other, more fruitful areas of biotech and medical research.

From Bill Gates to Mark Zuckerburg, Silicon Valley billionaires have plunged huge amounts of philanthropy dollars into all kinds of interventions in public education, from smaller classrooms to MOOCs to teacher testing to curriculum reform to charter schools. The track record of these reforms has been pretty uniformly abysmal, because it turns out that educational outcomes are shaped by pretty much every social force you can think of and educational systems are really complex and difficult to measure.

So yeah, fuck disruptors.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Alice Miranda Ollstein and Megan Messerly at Politico:

Donald Trump says he won’t ban birth control if he returns to the White House. But he could make it a lot harder to get. As president, Trump enacted several policies that made it more difficult for people, particularly the working class and the poor, to obtain contraception — from allowing more employers to opt out of birth control coverage in their workers’ health insurance to imposing restrictions on the Title X family planning program that triggered a mass exodus of clinics.

Conservative allies want to reimpose those policies and go further if he wins in November. Their “Project 2025” blueprint includes proposals to require coverage of natural family planning methods and remove requirements that insurance cover certain emergency contraception. Taken together, the policies highlight the many ways a second Trump administration could hamper access to contraception, short of a blanket ban. The impact would also be much greater now that roughly one-third of states prohibit nearly all abortions. In the wake of the Dobbs decision, to the consternation of some conservatives, the Biden administration has worked to make contraception more accessible, approving the first birth control pill available over-the-counter and requiring more types of contraception be covered by insurance. [...]

Roger Severino, a former Trump administration official who drafted the health care section of the Project 2025 blueprint, argued that the restrictions proposed in the document are a “far cry” from pulling contraceptives off the market or criminalizing their use — actions some Democrats have warned conservatives plan to implement. “The notion that there’s a formal organized movement to ban contraception across America is downright silly. I don’t know how that idea came about. But it strikes me as political posturing in the wake of the Dobbs decision to try to mislead people into thinking everything is up for grabs having to do with sex,” Severino said. “It’s fearmongering.” The Biden campaign said last week that Trump’s contraception remarks are the latest example of the chaos he has wrought for women’s reproductive rights, particularly by appointing three conservative justices to the Supreme Court.

[...]

As part of their 2025 wish list, conservatives want to overhaul which forms of birth control insurance companies must cover for patients at no cost under the Affordable Care Act. For instance, they have drafted plans to allow insurers to drop coverage of the emergency contraceptive pill Ella, which some on the right believe is an abortifacient.

“Instead of a mandate of a particular potentially abortifacient drug, it should be opt-in instead of opt-out,” Severino said. “Mandates are a difficult thing to impose on the American people, especially when you have something as fraught as issues of potential loss of life.” Conservatives also call for a requirement to cover “fertility awareness-based methods” of family planning, such as apps to track menstruation. Waters said she would also like to see the National Institutes of Health or another entity study the long-term effects of birth control. Trump allies also hope he will bring back a number of policies from his administration. During Trump’s four years in office, his administration slashed hundreds of millions of dollars in funding from the Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program and sought to repeal the Affordable Care Act, which has allowed at least 58 million women to access birth control with no out-of-pocket costs.

Federal health officials in Trump’s administration also issued rules allowing virtually any employer to refuse to cover contraception in their health plans, a policy supporters of the former president hope will be restored in 2025. The administration’s biggest impact on contraception access came from its overhaul of the federal Title X program, which provides free and subsidized birth control, STD screenings and other services to millions of low-income people. Trump’s health officials first cut the length of grants to clinics in that program from three years to eight months, creating more uncertainty and paperwork burdens for already strapped clinics. They then issued rules that banned providers from referring patients for an abortion or discussing it as an option and required clinics to construct fully separate facilities for the procedure and other services. Proponents argued the policies would ensure taxpayer dollars didn’t inadvertently support abortion, but many critics considered it a “gag rule” that prevented open communication between doctor and patient.

Politico is reporting that Donald Trump may be open to heavily restricting access to contraception and birth control instead of an outright ban. This is yet another example of the morally bankrupt Project 2025 agenda that the GOP wants to enact.

[mariacallous]

Back in 2022 at the annual Code Conference, where tech luminaries submit to onstage interviews, an audience member asked Apple CEO Tim Cook for some tech support. “I can’t send my mom certain videos,” he said; she used an Android device, which means she can't access Apple’s iMessage. Cook’s now-infamous response: “Buy your mom an iPhone.”

Cook’s remark and Apple’s recent decision to block the third-party app Beeper from bridging the Android-to-iMessage interoperability chasm are two of the many examples of allegedly monopolistic behavior cited in the US government’s antitrust suit against Apple. Central to the case is Apple’s practice of “locking in” iPhone customers by undermining competing apps, using its proprietary messaging protocol as glue, and generally making it challenging for people to switch to other phones.

Those accusations are backed up by lawyerly references to the Sherman Act. But the complaint also shows the Department of Justice crafting a cultural narrative, trying to tell a technology tale with a clear message—like an episode of the crime drama Dragnet, says antitrust expert William Kovacic, who teaches at George Washington University and King’s College, London.

The Apple antitrust lawsuit, filed Thursday by the DOJ and more than a dozen state attorneys general, claims that in addition to degrading the quality of third-party apps, Apple “affirmatively undermines the quality of rival smartphones.” Because messages sent between iPhones via Apple’s proprietary network appear in blue bubbles, but those from Android phones appear in green and are excluded from many iMessage features, Apple has signaled to consumers that rival phones are of less quality, the suit alleges.

The suit includes references to the negative cultural and emotional impact of the restrictiveness of some Apple products. It ranges beyond the typical antitrust case, in which investigators might focus on supracompetitive pricing or the conditions of corporate deals that restrict competition. The core of US antitrust cases has long been proving consumers paid higher prices as a result of anticompetitive practices. But a few key paragraphs within the 88-page filing mention the exclusion and social shaming of non-iPhone users confined inside green chat bubbles, distinguishing this case from some of the more recondite explanations of tech market competition in recent years.

“Many non-iPhone users also experience social stigma, exclusion, and blame for ‘breaking’ chats where other participants use iPhones,” the suit reads. It goes on to note that this is particularly powerful for certain demographics, like teenagers, who The Wall Street Journal reported two years ago “dread the ostracism” that comes with having an Android phone.

The DOJ argues that all of this reinforces the switching costs that Apple has baked into its phones. Apple is so dominant in the smartphone market not because its phones are necessarily better, the suit alleges, but because it has made communicating on other smartphones worse, thereby making it harder for consumers to give up their iPhones.

Legal experts say this social stigma argument will need much stronger support to hold up in court, because it doesn’t fit with traditional definitions of antitrust. “What is Apple actually precluding here? It’s almost like a coolness factor when a company successfully creates a network effect for itself, and I’ve never seen that integrated into an antitrust claim before,” says Paul Swanson, a litigation partner at Holland & Hart LLP in Denver, Colorado, who focuses on technology and antitrust. “This is going to be an interesting case for antitrust law.”

Regardless, the DOJ’s complaint builds a powerful message from the cacophony of consumer voices that have vented frustrations with iMessage’s lack of interoperability in recent years. And it’s part of a broader, democratizing theme introduced by Jonathan Kanter, the assistant attorney general for the DOJ’s Antitrust Division, says Kovacic, who previously served as chair of the Federal Trade Commission. “Kanter basically said, ‘We’re trying to make this body of law accessible to ordinary human beings and take it away from the technicians,’” Kovacic says. “Storytelling is overstated in some ways, but my sense is that a lot of work went into this filing.”

Apple has rejected the DOJ’s allegations. In an earlier statement to WIRED, Apple spokesperson Fred Sainz said that the lawsuit “threatens who we are and the principles that set Apple products apart in fiercely competitive markets” and added that its products work “seamlessly” together and “protect people’s privacy and security.”

Cultural arguments about the harms of the iPhone’s stickiness will resonate with a lot of consumers, even if they end up being legally indefensible. Blue bubble vs. green bubble messaging has become a much more mainstream debate that transcends the wonky, technical underpinnings of iMessage’s protocol. Apple has also consistently boasted of iPhone and iMessage’s tight security, while seemingly denying third-party apps—such as Beeper—the ability to offer a similar level of security between iPhones and Android phones.

Apple has suggested that the design of iMessage is not anticompetitive, because iPhone users can install and use any third-party messaging app they please, as long as it’s available in the App Store. Apps like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Signal can all be installed on iPhones and give messages sent from users on Android or iPhone equal treatment.

The DOJ takes aim at that, too, saying that these other apps first require opt-in from consumers on both sides of a conversation because they form closed systems of their own. And the case points out that Apple hasn’t given app developers any technical means of accessing the iPhone messaging APIs that would allow SMS-like, cross-platform, “text to anyone” functions from those apps.

Swanson says he still believes Apple has been careful to take the necessary steps to legally preserve consumer choice, which is one of the fundamental principles in US antitrust law. “You probably can’t do sophisticated messaging on a T9 phone these days,” he says, referencing the predictive text system that dominated before the iPhone popularized touchscreens. “But there are plenty of other options in the market that won’t deprive you of a network effect.”

Kovacic believes that as the case continues, the DOJ will have to bring forward new evidence and arguments to stand up the cultural aspects of its suit. That could involve tapping theories of economics and the psychology of human behavior to attempt to explain why some technology consumers may unconsciously favor certain products they are emotionally attached to. More likely, he says, the DOJ will have to present contemporaneous business notes that show Apple’s anxiety about competitive apps or emerging technologies, and how the company responded in apparently dubious ways.

One way the DOJ tries to stand up its allegations is by comparing Apple to an earlier antitrust target: Microsoft. In a historic antitrust case filed in 1998, the DOJ presented evidence that Bill Gates’ company was fearful that software like the Netscape browser could weaken the market power of Windows, Kovacic says.

Steven Sinofsky, a former longtime Microsoft executive, wrote in a highly charged blog post on Saturday that he suspects many of the suit’s arguments about Apple’s products will prove to be irrelevant. “Almost all of the [DOJ-Apple] battles will end up being about the terms and conditions of contracts which is the stuff lawyers and courts are good at, and not on product design,” he wrote. “The vast majority of the settlement in the Microsoft case ended up being terms and conditions licensing Windows.”

In other words, the DOJ has shown some of its cards in this initial complaint—and told a story that will resonate with many frustrated smartphone users. But to keep the case alive the agency will have to present additional, concrete, evidence that Apple’s anxieties about its products being devalued led it to act in ways that caused actual harm. If the DOJ wants to make the case against Apple as historic as the one against Microsoft it will have to prove, as Kovacic puts it, “that the anecdotes aren’t just storytelling.”

[bestsoftwarecompanyinkolkata]

Best Software Company in Kolkata - Your Guide to Top Software Solutions Providers

Kolkata, the cultural capital of India, is not just known for its rich heritage and vibrant traditions but also for its thriving IT industry. Over the past few years, the city has emerged as a significant hub for software development, attracting businesses looking for top-notch software solutions. If you're searching for the best software company in Kolkata, you're in the right place. In this blog, we'll explore what makes a software company stand out, the top players in the city, and how they can cater to your business needs.

Why Kolkata for Software Development?

Kolkata offers a unique blend of talent, affordability, and innovation that makes it an ideal location for software development. The city is home to several prestigious educational institutions, producing a steady stream of skilled IT professionals. Additionally, the cost of living in Kolkata is lower compared to other major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi, making it an attractive destination for businesses seeking cost-effective software solutions.

What Makes a Software Company the Best?

When it comes to selecting the best software company in Kolkata, there are several factors to consider:

Expertise and Experience: A top software company should have a proven track record of delivering successful projects. Look for companies with extensive experience in your industry and a portfolio that showcases their technical prowess.

Client-Centric Approach: The best software companies prioritize their clients' needs, offering tailored solutions that address specific business challenges. They should be able to understand your vision and translate it into a functional software solution.

Innovative Solutions: In today's rapidly changing technological landscape, innovation is key. The best software company i kolkata are those that stay ahead of the curve, leveraging the latest technologies and methodologies to deliver cutting-edge solutions. Quality Assurance: A reliable software company should have a robust quality assurance process in place, ensuring that the final product is free of bugs and performs seamlessly.

Support and Maintenance: Post-deployment support is crucial for the long-term success of any software solution. The best companies offer comprehensive support and maintenance services to keep your software running smoothly.

Top Software Companies in Kolkata

Now that we know what makes a software company the best, let's take a look at some of the top players in Kolkata that have made a mark in the industry.

1. Fusion Informatics

Fusion Informatics is a leading software development company in Kolkata known for its innovative solutions and client-centric approach. With over two decades of experience, the company has delivered numerous successful projects across various industries, including healthcare, finance, retail, and more. Fusion Informatics specializes in custom software development, mobile app development, AI and ML solutions, and blockchain development.

2. Indus Net Technologies

Indus Net Technologies (INT) is another top software company in Kolkata, renowned for its expertise in digital transformation and IT consulting. With a team of over 750 professionals, INT has served clients in more than 40 countries. The company offers a wide range of services, including web and mobile app development, cloud solutions, digital marketing, and analytics. INT's commitment to innovation and quality has earned it a strong reputation in the industry.

3. Pioneer Software Park Pvt. Ltd.

Pioneer Software Park is a Kolkata-based company that provides end-to-end software development services. The company has a strong focus on delivering high-quality, cost-effective solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of its clients. Pioneer Software Park's services include custom software development, ERP solutions, e-commerce development, and IT consulting. Their client-centric approach and dedication to excellence make them one of the best software company in Kolkata.

4. Capital Numbers

Capital Numbers is a digital solutions company based in Kolkata that has garnered international acclaim for its services. The company specializes in custom software development, web and mobile app development, and digital marketing. With a team of over 600 professionals, Capital Numbers has delivered successful projects for clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Their focus on quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has made them a preferred choice for businesses worldwide.

5. Navigators Software Pvt. Ltd. (Navsoft)

Navigators Software Pvt. Ltd., popularly known as Navsoft, is a Kolkata-based software development company with a global footprint. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including custom software development, web and mobile app development, cloud solutions, and digital transformation. Navsoft has a strong emphasis on innovation and quality, ensuring that their solutions are not only effective but also future-proof.

Why Choose a Kolkata-Based Software Company?

Choosing a Kolkata-based software company offers several advantages:

Cost-Effective Solutions: Kolkata's lower cost of living translates to more affordable software development services without compromising on quality.

Access to Skilled Talent: The city's educational institutions produce a steady stream of skilled IT professionals, ensuring that you have access to a pool of talented developers and engineers.

Cultural Compatibility: Kolkata's cultural diversity and English-speaking workforce make it easier to collaborate and communicate effectively with clients from around the world.

Strategic Location: Kolkata's strategic location and well-connected infrastructure make it easy for businesses to collaborate and manage projects efficiently.

Conclusion

Kolkata is home to some of the best software companies in India, offering a unique combination of talent, innovation, and affordability. Whether you're a startup looking to develop a new product or an established business seeking to enhance your digital presence, Kolkata's software companies have the expertise and experience to deliver exceptional results. When choosing a software company, consider factors such as expertise, client-centricity, innovation, and support to ensure that you partner with the best in the industry.

If you're on the lookout for the best software company in Kolkata, the companies mentioned above are a great place to start. Each of these companies has a proven track record of delivering high-quality software solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients.

[coderower]

The Future of Software Development: Top Trends to Watch in 2024

Introduction:

The field of technology is always changing, but software creation is still at the cutting edge of brand-new ideas. As 2024 approaches, the trends that will shape the future of software development become more apparent. These trends will bring both exciting possibilities and challenges for businesses and workers. This blog post will talk about the most important trends to keep an eye on in 2024, covering everything from cloud-based solutions to custom software creation.

1. Custom Software Development

Custom software development is still an important part of modern businesses because it lets them make solutions that fit their exact needs. In 2024, we expect a huge increase in the need for unique software solutions as companies try to stand out in very competitive markets. Custom software development is the most adaptable and adjustable way to improve customer experiences or streamline internal processes.

2. Software Development Services

People are still looking for software development services because they need help and professionals to make cutting-edge apps. Outsourcing software development has become a smart choice for many companies, from startups to large corporations, that want to cut down on development time and time to market.

3. Mobile App Development

Since smartphones and other mobile devices are becoming more popular, companies that want to connect with customers while they’re on the go still put a lot of emphasis on mobile app development. We think 2024 will be a big year for user-centred design and making new technologies like augmented reality (AR) and artificial intelligence (AI) work well.

4. Developers of Web Applications

Developers of Web applications are moving toward making experiences that are more engaging and flexible. Progressive web apps (PWAs) and single-page apps (SPAs) will likely become popular in 2024 as companies try to make the web faster and more interesting on all devices.

5. Cross-device App Development

Making apps that work on multiple devices without any problems is possible with cross-platform app development, which has become more popular in recent years. By 2024, cross-platform tools like React Native and Flutter should have even better features, allowing developers to reach more people with less work.

6. Full-Stack Development

As of now, workers who are skilled in both front-end and back-end platforms are in high demand for full-stack development. They are seen as versatile and knowledgeable. There will be a greater need for full-stack coders who can offer complete solutions in 2024, so training and upskilling programs will be a big focus.

7. Web Design and Development

Web design and programming are very important for shaping the user experience and getting people to interact with your site. We expect to see a move toward simple and easy-to-use designs in 2024, with an emphasis on making things accessible and open to everyone. The digital world will also continue to change as new design trends like dark mode and neomorphism become more popular.

8. Cloud-Based Solutions

Modern infrastructure is built around cloud-based solutions, which are scalable, reliable, and cost-effective. We think that there will be even more movement toward cloud-native designs in 2024, with a focus on serverless computing and containerization. Multi-cloud and mixed-cloud methods are also becoming more popular, which will give companies more freedom and stability.

9. Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)

Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) techniques have changed the way software is developed by making it possible for teams to make code changes quickly and accurately. We expect a lot of people to use CI/CD processes in 2024, with a focus on automation, teamwork, and feedback loops. Employing CI/CD in their work processes can help companies release software more quickly and with higher quality.

10. Software testing and product testing

Software testing is still an important part of the development process because it makes sure that apps work as planned and meet quality standards. Automated testing systems and AI-driven testing tools will become more popular in 2024, making it easier for coders to find problems and fix them. For the whole development process, using shift-left testing methods will also help build a mindset of quality.

11. Custom Web App Development

When businesses hire custom web app developers, they want solutions that are made just for them and the problems and chances in their fields. Custom web apps are flexible, safe, and quick, and they can be used to make management systems inside the company or sites for customers. It’s going to be very popular to have custom web apps made in 2024 because companies will want to stay ahead of the competition and focus on digital change projects.

12. Web Solutions

Many tools and services can be used to make web experiences that are live and engaging. Web tools, like e-commerce platforms and content management systems, help companies connect with customers, run their businesses, and grow. Developer tools, content management systems, and hosting services are likely to keep getting better in 2024, which will allow businesses to make web apps that are strong and flexible.

13. Develop Mobile Apps

Mobile apps are now essential for companies that want to reach people while they’re on the go and make the user experience better. Native mobile app development will be a big deal in 2024. To make sure users have a smooth and fast experience, developers will use platform-specific features and functions. Additionally, makers will be able to make new, feature-packed mobile apps by combining cutting-edge technologies like machine learning and blockchain.

14. App Development

The process of making apps for different devices, like phones, the web, and computers, is called app development. We expect a coming together of technologies and methods in 2024, which will make it easy for coders to make apps that work on multiple platforms. With the rise of low-code and no-code development platforms, companies can speed up the process of making apps and give regular people the tools they need to help make new solutions.

15. Emerging Technologies

Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), bitcoin, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are just a few of the new technologies that will drastically change the way software is made in 2024. These technologies could completely change businesses, make tasks easier to do, and generate new ideas in all areas. AI and ML will be used more for predictive analytics, personalized experiences, and automating regular chores in 2024. Similarly, blockchain technology will keep shaking up old ways of doing business by making deals safe and clear, while IoT devices will make it easier to connect and gain insights from data.

16. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Development

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have become powerful tools that could change many fields, from fun and games to education and healthcare. Hardware, software, and content creation tools will get better in 2024, which will lead to a lot of new AR and VR releases. AR and VR will be used more and more by businesses to make events more engaging, improve training programs, and connect with customers in fresh new ways.

17. Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)

AI and ML are going to be very important in the future of software development, allowing smart automation, predictive analytics, and customized experiences. We expect to see more AI and ML built into software in 2024, as companies use data to make better decisions and run their businesses more efficiently. AI and ML will continue to change how software is made, used, and implemented, from robots and virtual helpers to recommendation engines and systems that look for scams.

18. Quantum Computing

Quantum computing is a big change in the way computers work. It can do processing that has never been seen before and could help solve hard problems that regular computers can’t. Future progress in quantum computing is expected to continue in 2024. This will have effects on software development in areas like security, optimization, and science modelling. Quantum computing isn’t being used by most people yet, but developers and businesses are starting to look into how it could be used and what it means for the future of software development.

19. Edge Computing

The rise of edge computing has made it possible for real-time processing and low-latency apps. Edge computing brings computer power closer to where the data is created. Edge computer technologies are likely to become more popular in 2024, especially in fields like IoT, manufacturing, and self-driving cars. Edge computing is an important part of the future of software development because it processes data closer to where it is created. This means that decisions can be made faster, bandwidth is used less, and dependability is improved.

20. DevOps and DevSecOps Practices

DevOps and DevSecOps practices are becoming more popular in software development because they help teams simplify processes, speed up delivery, and make security better. Further use of DevOps and DevSecOps methods is expected in 2024, due to the need for more cooperation, automation, and flexibility. DevOps and DevSecOps allow teams to create high-quality software faster and more safely by combining development, operations, and security into a single process. This meets the needs of today’s digital world, which is changing quickly.

21. Data Privacy and Security

Businesses and customers both care a lot about data privacy and security. Strong security measures are needed because of rising online risks and laws. Data protection and security will still be important in software development in 2024, with a focus on encryption, identification, and compliance. Developers will be very important in keeping private data safe and defence against new threats. They will do things like secure code, security testing, and vulnerability evaluations.

22. Low-Code and No-Code Development Platforms

Low-code and no-code development platforms have made software creation more accessible to everyone, letting business users and citizen coders make apps without needing to know a lot about coding. As businesses try to speed up their digital transformation efforts and meet the growing demand for custom software solutions, we expect the low-code and no-code market to continue to grow in 2024. Low-code and no-code systems help businesses quickly adapt to changing customer wants and market conditions by hiding complexity and cutting down on development time.

23. Ethics and Responsible AI

As AI and ML become more common, people are becoming more aware of the moral and social effects they can have. We think that ethics and responsible AI will get more attention in software development in 2024. Developers and companies will take more steps to make sure that AI-driven systems are fair, open, and accountable. Researchers will have to think about how their work affects other people and put ethics first throughout the whole development process. This includes methods to reduce bias and ethical AI models and standards.

24. Remote Collaboration and Distributed Teams

The move to working from home has completely changed how teams work together and talk to each other. In software development, distributed teams are now the rule. As companies get used to mixed work models and see the benefits of remote work, we expect them to put more money into tools and platforms for online teamwork in 2024. With tools like virtual whiteboarding, videoconferencing, project management, and version control, online collaboration platforms make it easy for teams to work together even when they are in different places. This encourages creativity, innovation, and efficiency.

25. Diversity and Inclusion in Tech

Inclusion and diversity have become very important issues in the tech industry, as more people realize how important different points of view and experiences are for fostering creativity and innovation. We expect that more will be done in 2024 to support diversity and inclusion in software development. For example, mentoring programs, diversity training, and hiring methods that are open to everyone will be given top priority by companies. Businesses can get the most out of their teams and encourage an atmosphere of innovation and success by making the workplace more fair and open to everyone.

In conclusion:

In 2024, the future of software development will be marked by new ideas, quick changes, and a never-ending quest for perfection. To stay competitive in today’s digital world, businesses and workers need to keep up with the latest trends and changes in everything from new technologies like AI and quantum computing to well-known practices like DevOps and data security. Software engineers can change the future of technology for years to come by being open to change, encouraging teamwork, and putting ethics and fairness first.

[softgentechnologies]

Mobile App Development Services in Lucknow

Mobile application development is indeed the process of creating software applications specifically designed to operate on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. It involves a series of steps, from conceptualization to deployment, aimed at creating a functional and user-friendly application that meets the needs of the target audience.

Why Choose Lucknow for Mobile App Development

Lucknow, the capital of the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, is emerging as a leading hub for mobile app development. It boasts a vibrant tech ecosystem, with a growing number of startups, established IT companies, and skilled professionals. The city's favorable business environment, cost-effective resources, and access to top-notch talent make it an ideal location for mobile app development. Additionally, Lucknow's rich cultural heritage and modern infrastructure provide a unique backdrop for innovation and creativity in app development.

Our Expertise in Mobile App Development

Our team of seasoned professionals excels in developing mobile apps across various platforms, including iOS, Android, and cross-platform solutions. We specialize in creating user-centric, visually appealing, and high-performing applications that cater to diverse industry verticals. From brainstorming the initial concept to delivering a polished, market-ready app, our expertise encompasses every stage of the development lifecycle.

Our Development Process

iOS App Development: We specialize in developing custom iOS applications tailored to meet the unique requirements of businesses in Lucknow. Our team of skilled developers uses the latest technologies and follows best practices to create high-quality iOS apps that provide an exceptional user experience.

Android App Development: With expertise in Android app development, we create feature-rich and user-friendly applications for the Android platform. Whether it's a consumer-facing app, enterprise solution, or mobile game, we have the capabilities to develop innovative and scalable Android apps for businesses in Lucknow.

Cross-Platform App Development: Our cross-platform app development services enable businesses to reach a wider audience by developing apps that work seamlessly across multiple platforms, including iOS and Android. Using frameworks like React Native or Flutter, we ensure consistent performance and user experience across different devices.

Custom App Development: We specialize in developing custom mobile applications that address the unique needs and objectives of businesses in Lucknow. Whether you need a mobile app for e-commerce, healthcare, education, or any other industry, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.

UI/UX Design: Our team of experienced designers creates intuitive and visually appealing user interfaces (UI) that enhance the user experience (UX) of mobile apps. We focus on creating designs that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and easy to navigate.

Integration Services: We offer integration services to connect mobile apps with existing systems, such as CRM, ERP, or third-party APIs. This enables businesses to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and provide a seamless experience for users.

Testing and Quality Assurance: We conduct rigorous testing throughout the development process to ensure that mobile apps are bug-free, secure, and perform optimally. Our QA team performs various tests, including functional testing, performance testing, and usability testing, to deliver high-quality apps that meet industry standards.

Deployment and Support: We assist businesses in deploying mobile apps to app stores and provide ongoing maintenance and support services to ensure that apps remain up-to-date, secure, and perform optimally.

Our Team in Lucknow

Dedicated Professionals

Our talented team in Lucknow comprises experienced developers, innovative designers, and proficient project managers dedicated to delivering excellence.

Creative Minds

We foster creativity and innovation within our team, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking and inventive solutions for app development.

Collaborative Approach

Collaboration is at the heart of our team, ensuring seamless coordination and communication throughout the development process.

Contact Us

If you're ready to embark on an exciting mobile app development journey with us or have any inquiries, feel free to reach out to us through the following channels: Email: info@softgentechnologies.com, Phone: +91 8188886786, 0522 3510038 Alternatively, you can visit our office located at 68B, Smriti Vihar, Sector K1, Ashiyana, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh to discuss your project requirements in person.

[sprybit-agency]

Contract Hiring Mobile App Developers in 2024-25

In this digitally dependent world, one of the fastest-growing technologies is the introduction of mobile apps for brands. Businesses utilize apps to drive creation, quick access to information, customer communication, and engagement with the brand.

The growth rate of mobile-based applications is expected to be 14.3% from the year 2024 to 2030 – Grand View Research 

This makes mobile app developers one of the most in-demand skills in the market. For a successful project, the presence of skilled professionals is essential and businesses are also inclined to hire app developers remotely. Read the complete guide and let’s reveal how contract hiring mobile app developers is beneficial for businesses.

Why is Contract Hiring Beneficial?

When to Hire Mobile App Developers on Contract and Not on Employment?

Identifying the Technology & Scope of Work for the Mobile App Project

Sources of Contract Hiring

Interviewing and Screening Candidates 

Ideal Terms & Clauses for Contract Hiring

Setting up effective Remote Communication and Collaboration

Conclusion

Why is Contract Hiring Beneficial?

Contract work also commonly known as the gig economy is highly popular in the market. Businesses can easily fill the temporary skill gap in the company by indulging with contract workers on project to project basis.

However, the key aspect is that businesses should know when to opt. to hire remote app developers on a contract basis.

When to Hire Mobile App Developers on Contract and Not on Employment?

Project & Talent wise need only 

If your project needs short-term assistance from a developer it’s best to hire contractors. And, if the requirements increase, you can scale up the work with the hired professional.

Cost Considerations

Organizations easily save money and resources by opting for contract developers instead of permanent employees. If you’ve tight budgets and short-term requirements, this would be the best option.

Requirement of a Specialized Skill

Contract developers are often specialized in one specific skill like React Native or Swift. When the project is dependent on one skill that you do not have in-house, then you can hire a professional from a pool of Talents who best fits your requirements.

Identifying the Technology & Scope of Work for the Mobile App Project

Before you start hiring mobile app developers, it’s critical to understand the scope of the app and project requirements in detail.

Understand the Problem the App solves and for whom

Perform market research to identify the need for an app among your target audience. Plan how the app is going to benefit the users and what is a list of problems that need to be solved via developing the app. The classic example could be the problem of consumer interaction. With the app’s introduction, a brand can promote more engagement and interaction with the target audience.

Understand the project requirements and related core features 

Discuss with decision-makers what features the app must have for the users (the core feature and the differentiable features). Decide on the platforms the App will support (android, iOS, or both). You must also finalize project details beforehand like deliverables and deadlines.

Choose the right Technology Stack

Selecting the right technology stack sets the correct foundation for the app. Consider the purpose of the app while keeping the target audience in mind and select either a native or cross-platform stack.

1. Native Mobile App Development ensures optimal performance and ‘platform-specific’ capabilities.

iOS: Swift or Objective-C for programming, Xcode for development, UIKit for interface design.

Android: Kotlin or Java for programming, Android Studio for development, Android SDK for interface design.

2. Cross-Platform Mobile App Development ensures quick deployments, reusability of codes, and coverage of both platforms (Android & iOS).

React Native, Flutter, or Xamarin Frameworks offer the ability to write code once and deploy it across multiple platforms.

3. Other Tools, Libraries, and Databases to be identified might include Android Studio, Xcode, Firebase, Restful, SQLite, Room DB, SQL, MongoDB, Redux, etc.

Outline the Scope of Work & Document in detail 

A well-defined scope of work sets the wheels in motion for an app development project. The clear SOW acts as a roadmap for the developer and client and reduces any chances of misunderstanding in the process.

Also well document the Team requirements, their roles & responsibilities, features & functionalities, tasks & deliverables, milestones & deadlines, expectations for UI/UX designs, testing guidelines, deployment & maintenance guidelines, etc.

Sources of Contract Hiring 

Here are a bunch of options that one can select from to hire mobile app developers in 2024.

Leveraging Specialized Platforms,

There are freelance platforms available in the market like Upwork, and Fiverr, that have professional freelancers who can provide you with one-time developer services.

IT Agencies (B2B contract Hiring)

Consider hiring IT agencies like Sprybit that have a pool of talent who are not only pre-screened but also reliable for the project.

Networks

Ask in your Network, post on Facebook – LinkedIN – Reddit groups, reach out to Industry people, and ask for references.

Interviewing and Screening Candidates  

Following a pre-decided screening process is essential to finding the right talent for your organization.

Review Past Work/Portfolio 

Make sure to review the candidate’s portfolio related to the mobile development projects. Examine the projects that require similar skill sets as compared to your project and judge their proficiency. You can also inquire about those projects and codes to understand their level of knowledge.

Consider requesting some sample codes. The GutHub links can act as an excellent proof of skills. This step is necessary to make a calculated decision.

Screening of Technical Skill

Shortlisted candidates must be proficient in technical skills according to the project requirements. Hiring managers must conduct the right assessment that ensures the presence of skill expertise.

These assessments must be practical and should involve coding for varied purposes. With this, you can understand data structures and algorithm knowledge in the candidate.

Identify other important factors

Apart from technical skills, other non-technical factors are essential to be considered during the hiring process. Check the candidate’s communication skills to ensure they will be able to communicate their ideas and plans with other team members. Candidates must also possess problem-solving skills to navigate technical errors in codes if required.

There are multiple design principles for mobile apps to enhance user experience. Check if the app developer is aware of such technicalities to select the best possible resource for your project.

Ideal Terms & Clauses for Contract Hiring

Whether you are a newbie or an experienced professional; while contract hiring mobile app developers; the ideal terms to keep your data, time, money & idea safe remain an unmissable necessity.

Hiring from a Freelance Portal does check many boxes with their well-established policies and processes; which might be good but not always foolproof. Hiring freelancers directly or from IT Agencies engages us in co-building Terms & Conditions on mutual consensus or are pre-defined with our experience as a Vendor Compliance Policy. But, all-in-all, making sure that every safety measure for our Project is taken care of remains our sole responsibility.

Payment Terms

Unlike full-time employees, one can’t pay to contract professionals every month. Select among a wide range of options like hourly-rate, and project-basis. Transparency from the very beginning will help smooth project completion.

IP rights

Before starting the collaboration, clarity on IP i.e. intellectual property is essential. As in who is the owner of code, design, app interface, etc should be agreed on to avoid disputes in the future.

Confidential & Non-disclosure agreements 

Once you allot work to these contract workers, you will be sharing confidential details of the company. Make an advance agreement and ask them to sign it before commencing the work.

Project Timeline & Quality Assurance Standards

Maintain the quality of the project by deciding in prior about project deadlines, submissions, and code quality in terms of programming languages.

Termination clause

State a prescribed reason for when can either of the parties end the agreement. This brings clarity to the table regarding moral, ethical and professional expectations your Organization has.

Dispute Resolution

In rare cases, the client and candidate might go into a dispute that needs to be solved for the project’s betterment. Laying out steps to clear disputes and solve them will act as guidance in case it’s required.

Indemnity & Liability

It is important to outline the obligations & responsibilities of each party during any case of losses, damages and/or legal claims arising during the course of the project.

Governing Law & Governing Body

Involving government laws, rights, and bodies can help in resolving disputes and save the project’s future. This way both parties can come to the same conclusion under legal principles.

Setting up effective Remote Communication and Collaboration 

Remote work culture creates room for misunderstanding and unclear targets. However, the issue can be tackled if there’s a pre-decided communication system planned. From work allotment to final project submission, an effective communication plan benefits all the parties involved in the project.

These can be achieved by establishing communication, collaboration & project management tools for your Project:

Inbuilt communication channels of Freelance Platforms

Slack

Microsoft Teams

Zoom

Google Meet

Jira

Asana

Trello

Basecamp

Google Workspace

Dropbox

Microsoft 365

Notion

Conclusion 

Organizations’ idea to hire mobile app developers on Contract is spreading like a forest fire. Businesses now have access to partner freelancers and contract workers for short periods with ideal skills, and reliable talent.

Before starting your journey on the same path, make sure to remain transparent and pre-decide the essential factors like payment, timelines, IP & communication; and finally proceed to give life to your mobile app.

[thepastisalreadywritten]

SEOUL, South Korea — In fried-chicken-obsessed South Korea, restaurants serving the nation's favourite fast-food dish dot every street corner.

But Kang Ji-young's establishment brings something a little different to the table: a robot is cooking the chicken.

Eaten at everything from tiny family gatherings to a 10-million-viewer live-streamed "mukbang" -- eating broadcast -- by K-pop star Jungkook of BTS fame, fried chicken is deeply embedded in South Korean culture.

Paired with cold lager and known as "chimaek" -- a portmanteau of the Korean words for chicken and beer -- it is a staple of Seoul's famed baseball-watching experience.

The domestic market -- the world's third largest, after the United States and China -- is worth about seven trillion won ($5.3 billion).

However, labour shortages are starting to bite as South Korea faces a looming demographic disaster due to having the world's lowest birth rate.

Around 54 percent of business owners in the food service sector report problems finding employees, a government survey last year found, with long hours and stressful conditions the likely culprit, according to industry research.

Korean fried chicken is brined and double-fried, which gives it its signature crispy exterior, but the process -- more elaborate than what is typically used by US fast food chains -- creates additional labour and requires extended worker proximity to hot oil.

Enter Kang, a 38-year-old entrepreneur who saw an opportunity to improve the South Korean fried chicken business model and the dish itself.

"The market is huge," Kang told AFP at her Robert Chicken franchise.

Chicken and pork cutlets are the most popular delivery orders in South Korea, and the industry could clearly benefit from more automation "to effectively address labour costs and workforce shortages," she said.

Kang's robot, composed of a simple, flexible mechanical arm, is capable of frying 100 chickens in two hours -- a task that would require around five people and several deep fryers.

But not only does the robot make chicken more efficiently -- it makes it more delicious, says Kang.

"We can now say with confidence that our robot fries better than human beings do," she said.

Investing in 'foodtech'

Already a global cultural powerhouse and major semiconductor exporter, South Korea last year announced plans to plough millions of dollars into a "foodtech" fund to help startups working on high-tech food industry solutions.

Seoul says such innovations could become a "new growth engine," arguing there is huge potential if the country's prowess in advanced robotics and AI technology could be combined with the competitiveness of Korean food classics like kimchi.

South Korea's existing foodtech industry -- including everything from next-day grocery delivery app Market Kurly to AI smart kitchens to a "vegan egg" startup -- is already worth millions, said food science professor Lee Ki-won at Seoul National University.

Even South Korea's Samsung Electronics -- one of the world's biggest tech companies -- is trying to get in on the action, recently launching Samsung Food, an AI-personalised recipe and meal-planning platform, available in eight languages.

Lee predicted South Korea's other major conglomerates are likely to follow Samsung into foodtech.

"Delivering food using electric vehicles or having robots directly provide deliveries within apartment complexes, known as 'metamobility,' could become a part of our daily lives," he said.

"I am confident that within the next 10 years, the food tech industry will transform into the leading sector in South Korea."

'Initially struggled'

Entrepreneur Kang now has 15 robot-made chicken restaurants in South Korea and one branch in Singapore.

During AFP's visit to a Seoul branch, a robot meticulously handled the frying process -- from immersing chicken in oil, flipping it for even cooking, to retrieving it at the perfect level of crispiness, as the irresistible scent of crunchy chicken wafted through the shop.

Many customers remained oblivious to the hard-working robotic cook behind their meal.

Kim Moon-jung, a 54-year-old insurance worker, said she was not sure how a robot would make the chicken differently from a human "but one thing is certain -- it tastes delicious."

The robot can monitor oil temperature and oxidation levels in real time while it fries chicken, ensuring consistent taste and superior hygiene.

When Kang first started her business, she "initially struggled" to see why anyone would use robots rather than human chefs.

"But after developing these technologies, I've come to realise that from a customer's perspective, they're able to enjoy food that is not only cleaner but also tastier," she told AFP.

Her next venture is a tip-free bar in Koreatown in New York City, where the cocktails will feature Korea's soju rice wine and will be made by robots.

Entrepreneur aims to improve South Korea's dish using robot

11 September 2023

[continuations]

Low Rung Tech Tribalism

Silicon Valley's tribal boosterism has been bad for tech and bad for the world.

I recently criticized Reddit for clamping down on third party clients. I pointed out that having raised a lot of money at a high valuation required the company to become more extractive in an attempt to produce a return for investors. Twitter had gone down the exact same path years earlier with bad results, where undermining the third party ecosystem ultimately resulted in lower growth and engagement for the network. This prompted an outburst from Paul Graham who called it a "diss" and adding that he "expected better from [me] in both the moral and intellectual departments."

Comments like the one by Paul are a perfect example of a low rung tribal approach to tech. In "What's Our Problem" Tim Urban introduces the concept of a vertical axis of debate which distinguishes between high rung (intellectual) and low rung (tribal) approaches. This axis is as important, if not more important, than the horizontal left versus right axis in politics or the entrepreneurship/markets versus government/regulation axis in tech. Progress ultimately depends on actually seeking the right answers and only the high rung approach does that.

Low rung tech boosterism again and again shows how tribal it is. There is a pervasive attitude of "you are either with us or you are against us." Criticism is called a "diss" and followed by a barely veiled insult. Paul has a long history of such low rung boosterism. This was true for criticism of other iconic companies such as Uber and Airbnb also. For example, at one point Paul tweeted that "Uber is so obviously a good thing that you can measure how corrupt cities are by how hard they try to suppress it."

Now it is obviously true that some cities opposed Uber because of corruption / regulatory capture by the local taxi industry. At the same time there were and are valid reasons to regulate ride hailing apps, including congestion and safety. A statement such as Paul's doesn't invite a discussion, instead it serves to suppresses any criticism of Uber. After all, who wants to be seen as corrupt or being allied with corruption against something "obviously good"? Tellingly, Paul never replied to anyone who suggested that his statement was too extreme.

The net effect of this low rung tech tribalism is a sense that tech elites are insular and believe themselves to be above criticism, with no need to engage in debate. The latest example of this is Marc Andreessen's absolutist dismissal of any criticism or questions about the impacts of Artificial Intelligence on society. My tweet thread suggesting that Marc's arguments were overly broad and arrogant promptly earned me a block.

In this context I find myself frequently returning to Martin Gurri's excellent "Revolt of the Public." A key point that Gurri makes is that elites have done much to undermine their own credibility, a point also made in the earlier "Revolt of the Elites" by Christopher Lasch. When elites, who are obviously benefiting from a system, dismiss any criticism of that system as invalid or "Communist," they are abdicating their responsibility.

The cost of low rung tech boosterism isn't just a decline in public trust. It has also encouraged some founders' belief that they can be completely oblivious to the needs of their employees or their communities. If your investors and industry leaders tell you that you are doing great, no matter what, then clearly your employees or communities must be wrong and should be ignored. This has been directly harmful to the potential of these platforms, which in turn is bad for the world at large which is heavily influenced by what happens on these platforms.

If you want to rise to the moral obligations of leadership, then you need to find the intellectual capacity to engage with criticism. That is the high rung path to progress. It turns out to be a particularly hard path for people who are extremely financially successful as they often allow themselves to be surrounded by sycophants both IRL and online.

PS A valid criticism of my original tweet about Reddit was that I shouldn't have mentioned anything from a pitch meeting. And I agree with that.

[techgropse0]

5 Common Mobile App Development Myths You Need to Stop Believing | Techgropse

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, mobile applications have become an integral part of our daily lives. Whether it's for social networking, productivity, or entertainment, mobile apps are ubiquitous. However, despite their prevalence, there are still many misconceptions surrounding mobile app development that can hinder the success of a project.

Developing A Mobile App Is Expensive And Time Consuming

One of the most widespread myths about mobile app development is that it's prohibitively expensive and time-consuming. While it's true that building a high-quality app requires investment, it doesn't have to break the bank. With advancements in technology and the availability of various development tools and platforms, the cost of app development has significantly decreased in recent years.

Additionally, there are several approaches to mobile app development Singapore, such as native, hybrid, and cross-platform development, each with its own set of pros and cons. By carefully considering your project requirements and budget constraints, you can choose the most cost-effective approach that meets your needs.

Building A Mobile App Guarantees Success

Another common misconception is that simply having a mobile app will guarantee success. While a well-designed and functional app is undoubtedly essential, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Success in the crowded app market requires more than just launching an app; it requires a comprehensive strategy encompassing marketing, user acquisition, retention, and monetization.

Furthermore, effective marketing and promotion are crucial for app success. Leveraging various channels such as app store optimization (ASO), social media, influencer marketing, and paid advertising can help increase app visibility and attract users.

Mobile App Development Is A One Time Effort

Some people mistakenly believe that a mobile app development company in Malaysia is a one-time effort—that once the app is launched, the work is done. However, the reality is that successful app development is an ongoing process that requires continuous updates, maintenance, and optimization.

Final Words :

Debunking these common myths about mobile app development is essential for ensuring the success of your app project. By understanding the realities of app development, leveraging the right tools and resources, and adopting a strategic approach, you can maximize your chances of creating a successful and impactful mobile app.

[prometteursolutions]

Unlocking the Cost of Your Hotel Booking Website: A Deep Dive

In the ever-evolving travel landscape, a robust hotel booking website is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. 

Whether you're venturing into the online hotel booking space or seeking to expand your existing business, understanding the cost involved in building a user-friendly and functional website is crucial. 

This blog delves into the key factors influencing the cost of your hotel booking website, empowering you to make informed decisions.

Website Design and Development

Complexity: A basic website with essential functionalities like search, booking, and payment options will have a lower cost compared to a feature-rich platform offering interactive experiences and personalized recommendations.

Customization: Opting for a pre-designed template can be more budget-friendly, while custom website design allows for a unique brand identity and caters to specific needs, impacting the cost.

Development Team: Hiring an in-house development team can incur significant salaries, benefits, and infrastructure costs. Partnering with a reputable hotel website design company with expertise in this domain can offer a cost-effective alternative.

Additional Features:

Advanced Search and Filter Options: Allowing users to filter by location, amenities, price range, and guest reviews adds value but increases development complexity and cost.

Multilingual Support: Catering to a global audience by offering multilingual support necessitates additional development effort and ongoing translation costs.

Integration with Third-Party Platforms: Integrating with payment gateways, channel management systems, and loyalty programs can enhance functionality but involve additional costs for development and potential ongoing fees.

Maintenance and Ongoing Costs

Content Management System (CMS): A user-friendly CMS empowers you to manage website content and updates independently, reducing reliance on developers and potentially lowering costs.

Hosting and Security: Choosing reliable hosting and robust security measures ensures website uptime and data protection, incurring fixed monthly or annual costs.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Implementing SEO strategies improves website visibility in search engine results, potentially requiring ongoing investment in content creation, technical SEO optimization, and potentially, marketing campaigns.

Determining the Right Budget

The cost of your hotel booking website can vary significantly based on your specific requirements, desired features, and chosen development approach. It's essential to prioritize features based on your target audience, business goals, and budget constraints.

Ready to unlock the potential of your hotel booking website? 

Contact a hotel website development expert today to discuss your vision and receive a personalized cost estimate tailored to your unique needs. Prometteur Solutions is top mobile and web app development company in India and USA.

Remember, a well-designed and developed website can be an investment that drives significant returns in the long run, attracting new customers and boosting your online presence in the competitive hospitality industry.

[research-related-blogs]

Harnessing Data Potential: The Rising Landscape of the Product Information Management Market

The rising revenue generation capacity in the product information management market can be attributed to the need for PIM solutions amidst the increasing complexity of managing large volumes of product information across diverse channels. Seamless integration with third-party applications and platforms provided by product information management businesses makes it a priority in the market dynamics. The scope for the product information management market increased with the increasing awareness of the importance of efficient data management, as businesses realize that accurate and latest product information is critical for success in the digital age. PIM helps to standardize the increasingly complex demands of product content including size, ingredients, weight, colors, and other product specifics.

The growing adoption of PIM software solutions across various industry verticals delivers better consumer and omnichannel experience by streamlining an organization's internal and external marketing processes. PIM system facilitates the distribution of product information across various sales channels ensuring consistent and accurate data presentation. E-commerce websites, marketplaces, print catalogs, mobile applications, and many more sales channels use PIM to focus on robust data governance frameworks for data quality assurance.

 The integration of AI with PIM is revolutionizing the entire market dynamics. Automated processes are streamlining data management to improve efficiency. This contributes largely to market growth. Market players are leveraging blockchain technology to enhance data security and transparency by providing trustworthy product information. There are several investment opportunities in companies that are innovating within the PIM space, particularly those incorporating technologies like AI, machine learning, and automation to enhance data enrichment.

The product information management market landscape includes various players offering PIM software Solutions with innovative features, cost-effective price models, and regional audiences. The strategies adopted by market players to remain relevant in the market scenario include investing in companies that emphasize providing omnichannel experience across various touchpoints like online marketplaces, mobile apps, social media, and physical stores. This also helps them increase their consumer footprint.

[nickgerlich]

It's A Revolution

Professional sports have long been available for free viewing, either on cable, satellite, or over-the-air. Of course, league blackout rules apply in certain places, and there are season pass options available for die hard fans. The gist of it is that watching the game, whatever it may be, has been of the people and for the people.

But that is slowly changing. In 2021, Amazon signed on for 11 seasons of Thursday Night Football, and has effectively added one more day of the week to fans’ football-watching activities. Well, as long as you have Amazon Prime, know a friend who does and doesn’t mind you crashing there, or can find it at a sports bar. Otherwise, you’re out of luck.

AppleTV+ has dibs on Major League Soccer, which proved to be a huge win for Apple last year when Messi started playing for Miami. It’s an upgrade to the standard AppleTV+ subscription, but some games are shared across the AppleTV+ platform for the basic subscribers.

And now we come to the latest: Peacock, owned by NBCUniversal, carried this last Saturday’s playoff game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins, and based on the data, it was the “most-streamed live event in US history.” Some 23 million viewers turned in, of which 16.3 million were logged in to Peacock. The remaining seven million were viewers in the KC and Miami markets, as well as subscribers to the NFL+ mobile app.

But the superlatives don’t stop there. The game also practically choked the internet, accounting for 30% of all web bandwidth during the game. It was the “most internet usage ever in the US on a single date.” Take that, Netflix.

So what’s the problem, you ask? Well, there was a huge outpouring of negativity on social media, because some viewers felt like they were being extorted for $5.99 a month to sign up for Peacock (which, of course, they could cancel at any time). And some lawmakers are concerned as well, because…you know…that’s not how we have always done it.

We may see a court battle or two over this, but I suspect the ship is sailing, and we will now begin to see ever more professional sports on subscription streaming services. And with good reason, because pro sports is about the only reason people watch linear television these days. OK, maybe the evening news, but I have already digested all of the day’s news online long before the 10pm showing. When you consider that 93 out of the top 100 broadcast programs last year were NFL games, you see the magnitude of this.

Think about it. The only content with a shelf life of not more than a few hours is sports and the news. Who wants to watch yesterday’s football game, or last night’s newscast? I’ll wait. And we’ll all happily wait to watch everything else on our own schedule, whether by DVR or streaming on demand.

It’s just that, as we continue to cut the ties that bound us to all those legacy media outlets, the new model is all about streaming. While there is much consolidation going on—that’s a topic for a future blog—it also means there will be more resources among the surviving conglomerates to do what Peacock just did, and what Amazon has been doing. Exclusive rights cost big money, but with that many eyeballs, it is well worth the price. Advertisers love it, and so does any company with the rights.

For consumers, it signifies a continuation of the drift away from legacy outlets, and toward the streamers. I know. The prices and bundling options available these days are beginning to look a lot like that which we left behind with cable and satellite, but that’s how it goes. Orwell noted that tendency in Animal Farm. The Wheel of Retailing Theory says the same. A revolution eventually begins to look a lot like that which it sought to replace.

And if you want to watch pro sports in the future, I am betting heavily that you’ll have to join the revolution. Or find a friend who has. Just be sure to bring food and beverage.

Dr “How Many Subscriptions Do You Have?” Gerlich

Audio Blog

[danonrealestate]

The California Effect and the opportunities it provides

This has been a phenomenon for some time that a lot of real estate agents are jumping on, especially in Arizona and Nevada. So basically the California effect is a migrational pattern of Californians who leave the state for financial and personal reasons and settle into states like Nevada, Arizona and Texas.

The fear of a lot of these residents stems from the fact that there are now so many Californians that the rents and prices are going up. I’ve read comments by a lot of different people who talk about how rents in Northern Arizona have went up by 300% because of the influx of Californians.

It is kind of a very interesting pattern of people and has shown that where Californians settle they usually turn the area similar into California subconsciously and without even thinking.

Take the phenomenon in Austin, Texas for example, many many Californians went to that one specific area and a lot of large California companies followed suit and eventually turned that area into the next Los Angeles and San Francisco.

It’s interesting because there is a phenomenon about California where it is so big to the point that it has influence throughout the rest of the country. And it shows that it has more influence in neighboring states than Texas does in neighboring states there.

Although Idaho was hit much more by this phenomenon, Utah remains relatively untouched. Probably due to Utah having a very strong Mormon Identity and culture.

So who’s moving into California? Mostly the very wealthy and the very poor. California has a huge homeless problem where a lot of homeless from all over the country tend to migrate to California for safe havens but also very wealthy people migrate as well.

Which is why an apartment in the worst part of town is now costing 2000$ a month. Where does this come into effect and to understand this phenomenon? This is actually not a planned phenomena, this is more of a cause and effect for the difficulties of not being able to live in California.

Whether you believe Newsom is a good governor or not, there will always be a problem of migration going out of the state. It is starting to become a state where the incredibly wealthy are taking up the land and the resources, thus making it harder to work on.

Eventually you will begin to see a lot of the effects of Californians moving to these areas in droves and you will begin to see things become different.

Although we talk about the bad things, this can actually be a very good thing for an entrepreneur in the area who wishes to take his trade or craft to the next level and be able to work with Californians. If you’re an electrician, this is great for business! If you’re an auto technician, more cars with more miles on them!

Manufacturing coming to your area may also expand as you will begin to see more people come to your area and how exactly to cater to them. I myself will never leave California except for college but I have seen a lot of the world myself and it’s quite unique in a way.

If you play with stocks this might be perfect as well as you will be able to work in more markets. A new share market is starting to expand as well, the first app I use, Landa, focuses entirely on buying shares of houses and being able to see the dividends come in. I love the app actually and have been buying a lot more shares in Georgia. Georgia has an increase meanwhile shares for houses in Alabama don’t seem to be going up at all. New York is very matured now but will see more growth later on.

So there is a lot of opportunity here and over time you will see it grow. It becomes more apparent as things change and you will see more waves from other areas come in.