We Were Promised Wrist Computers
By This Week in Startups
Key Concepts:
- Bangle-style wrist computer
- Form factor
- Apple Watch limitations (size, Siri)
- Voice assistant comparison (Alexa/Siri vs. Gemini/Google Assistant/ChatGPT/Grok)
- "First two up the hill" analogy
Discussion of Desired Product: Bangle-Style Wrist Computer
The speaker expresses a desire for a bangle-style wrist computer that wraps around the forearm, referencing the "Comm" device from Star Wars as inspiration. They specifically mention the "Lando Calrissian" version made by an Etsy seller as an example of the desired aesthetic. The speaker is surprised that this type of device isn't more readily available and suggests it as a potential startup idea. They state that if someone were to create such a device, they would want that startup in their accelerator program.
Form Factor and Apple Watch Critique
The speaker believes a wrist computer is a "winning form factor" but criticizes the Apple Watch for being "too small." This suggests that the larger size and potentially different interface of a bangle-style device are seen as advantages. The speaker also criticizes Siri's functionality, noting that Apple has "reallocated the Siri head," implying dissatisfaction with its performance.
Voice Assistant Comparison: "First Two Up the Hill"
The speaker uses the analogy of "the first two people up the hill take the arrows" to describe the current state of voice assistants. They argue that Alexa and Siri, being the early entrants in the market, have suffered the most from initial development challenges and are now inferior to newer voice assistants like Gemini, Google Assistant, ChatGPT, and Grok. The speaker specifically highlights the "incredible" voice modes of these newer assistants compared to Alexa and Siri. The phrase "they suck" is used to emphasize the perceived inadequacy of Alexa and Siri.
Synthesis/Conclusion:
The speaker is advocating for the development of a bangle-style wrist computer, believing it to be a superior form factor to existing smartwatches. They are critical of the Apple Watch's size and Siri's performance. They also argue that early voice assistants like Alexa and Siri have been surpassed by newer, more advanced options. The main takeaway is a call to action for entrepreneurs to develop this specific type of wrist computer, capitalizing on the perceived shortcomings of current market offerings and advancements in voice assistant technology.
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