We’re now witnessing another phase of the consolidation of the internet into the hands of a few very powerful corporations. The original premise of the internet is dying, but there are things that we can do.
Today, I’m commenting on a really long but excellent article which you should probably read if you are interested in the future freedom of the internet.
It’s a long read but it paints a stark reality of what the big tech companies are likely going to do.
My personal summary of that article is that:
- Google have annihilated small and independent website owners over the last two years. Most have had to downgrade their teams, or shut up shop. If you look at the traffic statistics in that article, the drop-offs are terrifying.
- The new move by Google is going to ensure that users get given the answers without ever leaving Google. They are happy to use other peoples content, but without rewarding it now.
- It’s a complete power move that will see a handful of websites run by a very specific group of VCs – be visible in the Google’s AI results.
I do think it will leave an area of opportunity for those interested in promoting the independents. I personally think Google has shot itself in the foot. It will still do really well because of its position in the market; but results have got worse and just more generic. A huge amount of the web is now hidden simply because Google deems it so. That will create an opportunity.
I was speaking to a friend the other day and they asked where my startup updates were! Whilst I hadn’t been getting many people interacting with them, there was some awareness… and the comment made me realise that regular updates are the best form of ‘getting word out’ for when I have major milestones to demonstrate. So, I’ll be endeavouring to continue.
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