Why do some consumer products explode into networks that reshape the internet, while others fade away?

Today on the podcast, a16z general partners Anish Acharya and Chris Dixon take on that question. Anish invests in AI-native consumer products and the next wave of consumer tech. Chris is best known for his work in Web3 and network economies, and he’s also led some of a16z’s biggest consumer bets.

Together, they cover the history and power of consumer networks, the exponential forces that shape how they grow, and what it all means for founders building in the age of AI.

Timecodes:

00:00 Introduction

00:43 The Power of Networks in Tech

02:19 Moore’s Law, Composability, and Network Effects

06:39 Building Networks: Tools vs. Networks

10:49 Brand, Pricing, and Consumer Software Trends

14:33 Movements, Communities, and Niche Markets

20:02 Decentralization, AI, and the Open Web

24:45 Platform Shifts and the Idea Maze

29:55 Native vs. Skeuomorphic Technologies

36:14 Open Source, Policy, and the Future of AI

42:03 Closing Thoughts & Outro

Resources:
Find Chris on X: https://x.com/cdixon

Find Anish on X: https://x.com/illscience

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Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

Stay Updated:

Find a16z on X

Find a16z on LinkedIn

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Follow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg

Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures.

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