
Stratechery
Content from Stratechery, via podcast or RSS
Latest episodes

Mar 17, 2022 • 12min
The Current Thing
The podcast dives into how the internet reshapes media and commerce, breaking down traditional barriers. It discusses the paradox of abundance, where newspapers struggle despite broad reach amid free online content. The conversation shifts to how dominant narratives may overshadow dissenting voices, highlighting the impact of major platforms on public opinion. Finally, it tackles the political neutrality of internet infrastructure companies and the implications of their decisions in sensitive geopolitical contexts.

Mar 7, 2022 • 20min
Tech and War
Discover how the Ukraine conflict is reshaping the tech landscape, as sanctions hit Russia and challenge international relations. Delve into the power shift from a technology-driven internet to centralized economic control. Explore how smartphone and cloud market dominance influences global geopolitics, with India's potential and China's competition. Unearth the implications of U.S. semiconductor policies on China and the intricate dependencies on Taiwan and South Korea. This episode reveals the complex intersection of tech, politics, and global power dynamics.

Feb 22, 2022 • 24min
Shopify's Evolution
Discover Shopify's remarkable transformation from a niche platform to a powerhouse in e-commerce. Uncover how rising digital advertising costs and tech advancements are reshaping the landscape. Delve into Facebook's pivotal role in app discovery and its synergy with Shopify sellers. Navigate the challenges post-pandemic and Apple’s privacy changes pose for merchants. Lastly, explore Shopify’s innovative fulfillment strategies aimed at enhancing customer satisfaction and its evolution in targeted advertising, fueled by transaction data.

Feb 8, 2022 • 22min
Digital Advertising in 2022
Discover the overwhelming dominance of Google and Facebook in the digital advertising arena and how Apple’s app tracking changes are reshaping the landscape. Explore Amazon's rise through strategic search advertising and its competition with Google. Delve into the implications of Apple’s policies for other platforms, and how they benefit giants like Google over Facebook. Analyze evolving advertising strategies and the shifting balance of power among major players, creating a complex landscape in digital marketing.

Feb 1, 2022 • 17min
Gaming the Smiling Curve
The podcast dives into the surge of major acquisitions in the gaming world, highlighting how mobile gaming is reshaping the industry. It contrasts Microsoft and Sony's financial tactics regarding exclusivity and examines subscription models like Xbox Game Pass. The conversation also delves into the Smiling Curve concept, showcasing the influence of dominant players like Apple and Google. Finally, it analyzes the competitive landscape driven by independent creators and the need for innovation in game design.

Jan 18, 2022 • 20min
The Intel Split
A deep dive reveals the fierce competition between Intel and TSMC amid a global chip shortage. It explores the historical impact of Moore's Law, showcasing Intel's past and the industry's shift towards design-separation. The challenges of adapting microprocessor design with modern methodologies are discussed, focusing on Intel's RLS system and IDM 2.0 strategy. Finally, the podcast speculates on Intel's future, including potential collaborations and a move toward a fabless manufacturing model to regain competitiveness.

Dec 20, 2021 • 2min
The 2021 Stratechery Year in Review
The discussion dives into the notable challenges faced by the tech world in 2021, including the ongoing effects of COVID-19 and vaccine polarization. Amidst these hurdles, the conversation highlights how these circumstances sparked innovative opportunities in technology. There’s also a moment of appreciation for the audience's engagement, emphasizing the community's role in navigating these turbulent times.

Dec 14, 2021 • 15min
The Great Bifurcation
Explore the fascinating progression of technology through distinct phases, from Tech 1.0 to 3.0. Discover how the software revolution reshaped industries with the rise of cloud applications, challenging giants like Oracle and Microsoft. Dive into the dynamics of social media, with a focus on how features like Facebook Marketplace affect real-life connections. Investigate the blending of digital and physical realities, and how the pandemic has accelerated trends towards the metaverse, offering unique opportunities amidst the growing divide.

Dec 6, 2021 • 12min
The Amazon Empire Strikes Back
Dive into Amazon's ambitious moves in shipping and logistics, including leasing aircraft and chartering vessels. Discover how these strategies shape their holiday inventory management amidst rising shipping costs. The power dynamics shift, revealing small merchants increasingly reliant on Amazon's services amid container shortages. Explore Amazon's competitive edge in logistics and advertising, illustrating how its integration fosters efficiency for third-party sellers while impacting market trends favoring large platforms over smaller rivals.

Nov 30, 2021 • 13min
Twitter Has a New CEO; What About a New Business Model?
The recent shakeup at Twitter with a new CEO raises questions about the platform's future. The historical context of leadership changes sheds light on upcoming challenges. A deep dive into Twitter's market position reveals lessons from its early success and contrasts its text-focused approach with visual platforms like Instagram. The discussion turns towards a potential shift from ad revenue to a subscription model, examining user loyalty and how this could change the business landscape.