Flipboard Friday: Fear & Loathing in the MartinVerse¶
Source: https://www.wte.net/Blog/June-2023/Flipboard-Friday-Fear-Loathing-in-the-Martinverse
Date: June 2023
Author: Martin W Smith
Opening¶
The article opens with a gonzo-style introduction channeling Hunter S. Thompson's writing approach. The author references "The Future of AI: A Gonzo Journey into Deep Learning" and credits colleague Phil Eifert for suggesting the title. The piece explores how AI tools from companies like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft are reshaping technology and culture.
Core Thesis¶
The author argues that emerging technologies—particularly Apple Vision Pro, artificial intelligence, and augmented/virtual reality—represent significant shifts comparable to "big bats landing on your face." These developments will fundamentally change how consumers interact with commerce and information.
Apple Vision Pro¶
The author discusses the newly released AR/VR device from Apple, noting it generated controversy in tech circles. References include Kate Knibbs' Wired article and a Cold Fusion YouTube review. The Vision Pro is positioned as potentially transformative technology for augmented reality experiences.
AI-Powered Commerce¶
According to the author, "social media has become powerful for connecting businesses with consumers" through platforms like TikTok and Instagram. Live commerce features include interactivity, urgency creation, authenticity, and social proof. The piece explains how AI enables "granular personalization" by combining website tracking, purchase history, and real-time data.
Google's Search Challenges¶
The author references Mia Sato's Verge article "A Storefront for Robots," discussing how SEO pressures force content creators to optimize for search algorithms rather than human readers. The piece highlights a fundamental tension: "writing for Google versus writing for customers" remains challenging for content marketers and small business owners.
Closing Question¶
The article concludes by questioning whether emerging technologies can resolve internet fragmentation and create more authentic customer connections, or if these developments will perpetuate existing problems.
Contact: martin (at) wte.net