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Is Magic Leap the Solyndra of 2017?

Future Commerce · October 19, 2017 · 50 min

Summary

This episode discusses the competitive landscape between Google Home and Amazon Alexa in the voice commerce space, highlighting Google's strategic partnerships with major retailers like Target and Walmart. It also delves into Amazon's acquisition of Body Labs and the potential implications for retail, along with a critical look at emerging technologies like VR and Magic Leap. The core message is to understand the strategic moves of tech giants and their impact on future commerce, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and innovation.

Key takeaways

Themes

retail & omnichannelai & automationproduct & merchandisingfounder & leadership

Topics covered

voice commercegoogle homeamazon alexaretail partnershipsbody labs acquisition3d body modelingprivate label brandscustom clothingoculus govirtual realitymagic leap fundingpublic transit innovationfood delivery disruption

Episode description

What is eVTOL? Does the future of the world depend on disruption in Food Delivery and innovation in Public Transit? Also - Project Loon in Puerto Rico, Magic Leap takes a Series D

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Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
Amazon's lead in voice commerce is being challenged by Google's aggressive partnership strategy with major retailers like Walmart and Target, indicating that market dominance isn't guaranteed even with an early start.
What does this episode say about ai & automation?
The acquisition of Body Labs by Amazon signifies a strategic investment in 3D body modeling technology, which has significant implications for private label brands, custom clothing, and personalized retail experiences.
What does this episode say about product & merchandising?
Affordable and accessible VR solutions like Oculus Go could drive wider adoption, but the technology still needs to demonstrate clear, practical benefits to consumers beyond novelty.
What does this episode say about founder & leadership?
Be wary of heavily funded, unproven technologies (like Magic Leap at the time) that excel at fundraising but have yet to deliver a tangible, impactful product, as they can be high-risk ventures.
What does this episode say about retail & omnichannel?
Innovation in public transit and food delivery systems is presented as critical for societal advancement and economic disruption, suggesting new opportunities for businesses in these sectors.

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