Business Movers Business Wars Presents: The AOL-Time Warner Disaster
9 snips
Jul 28, 2025 Explore the chaotic world of corporate mergers with the infamous AOL-Time Warner deal. Discover how Quantum Computer Services paved the way for the online revolution. Delve into the challenge of maintaining integrity while chasing profits in the burgeoning digital landscape. The balance between a family-friendly image and adult content emerges as a crucial theme. This riveting tale unveils the highs and lows of one of the most notorious business disasters, showcasing the unseen dynamics that shape the digital age.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Early Online Service Challenges
- Online services in 1985 were slow, expensive, and isolated, limiting user growth and practical use.
- These early limitations made physical media and offline options more attractive for most people at the time.
Origin of "You've Got Mail"
- In 1989, Quantum added a friendly voice to their online service to greet users and notify them of emails.
- Voice actor Elwood Edwards recorded the iconic phrase "Welcome. You've got mail." at home for $200.
Pragmatism Over Ideology in Business
- Although Quantum wanted a family-friendly image, it tolerated sex chat rooms because they kept users logged in longer.
- Longer user engagement meant more revenue, outweighing moral concerns.