Big Technology Podcast The Internet's Impact On Productivity, Meta's AI Plan, RIP Big Tech Perks
Apr 7, 2023
Ranjan Roy, author of "Margins" and a tech commentator, dives into the Internet's impact on productivity, questioning whether it's truly beneficial. He discusses AI's potential to reshape our work habits and the competitive landscape, particularly Meta's pivot toward AI. The conversation touches on changing employee perks at Google and the ongoing rivalry between Twitter and Substack. Ranjan also shares insights on finding connection in a disconnected world, emphasizing the joys of life without smartphones.
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Internet's Economic Impact
- The internet's economic value is debatable, with arguments suggesting its productivity gains aren't as significant as those of earlier technologies.
- Measurable economic output from internet companies like TikTok primarily comes from advertising, not user engagement.
AI's Potential for Productivity Gains
- AI might improve tangible productivity in areas like coding and business analysis, potentially making engineers and analysts more efficient.
- AI could also improve areas like medicine, where it could assist in research or diagnostics, leading to potentially measurable advancements.
Meta's Shift to AI
- Meta's shift from Metaverse to AI suggests a focus on more immediate revenue opportunities, aligning with the current "year of efficiency."
- AI can enhance Meta's ad platform, automate creative variations, and potentially circumvent Apple's privacy changes.