Recurrent Patterns
Recurrent Patterns is a venture exploring strategies and insights around leading-edge companies, technology and cultural trends. Vaclav engages with leaders, entrepreneurs, scientists, authors and others who can share their perspectives in long-form conversations.
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Hard to compete with free
Open source software is supposed to help companies innovate and collaborate. I question whether the biggest tech companies in the world are using the open source framework to actually stifle competition from startups.
2023 in the rear view
As 2023 draws to a close, I reflect on the recurrent patterns that defined a year of innovation. Join me in exploring these insights and how they will shape 2024.
AI will rain money and save failed businesses
AI's magic was on full display as Microsoft integrated AI into Office365, accompanied by a $30 price increase. The impact on revenue will be immense, the impact on productivity delusional. And AI-generated content won't save journalism.
Twitter hanging by the Threads
Just like that, the Internet forgot about ChatGPT (for a moment, at least) when a new soap opera aired this week. The entity known as Meta or Facebook or Mr. Zuckerberg launched a new social network called Threads. This is a direct assault on Twitter, the social network owned by Mr.Musk. Or is it?
Canada will become newsless
Canadian government passes the Online News Act, targeting Google and Facebook. Is it a lifeline for struggling news publications or government's misguided interference?
Reddit's inedible free lunch
A highly-coveted free lunch turns out to have its consequences. Reddit, the 'front page of the Internet,' is facing a paradigm shift as it attempts to charge for its API access. With moderators protesting and developers grappling with fees, the cracks in the business model are becoming evident. The challenges Reddit faces as it seeks profitability in an era of increasing user entitlement and outrage.
Apple doesn’t need AI. It’s got humans
With AI, we have a new gold rush. We’re seeing a brewing conflict between Microsoft and Google. Facebook has a new algorithm based off of this technology. Baidu's Ernie is badly trying to mount a response. There is one company name missing in all this.
Another smart try from Apple
Your home — your castle — is under relentless attack. Every vendor under the sun is trying to infiltrate your fortress. The latest attack is coming from Apple with the re-launch of the HomePod.
The most electrifying Recurrent Patterns of 2022
As another year slowly comes to a close, I’d like to thank you for another year of conversations and explorations into recurrent patterns.