Exploring the Absence of a Dominant AI App Store: Insights from the Hardware Platform Theory

Major app ecosystems have historically emerged alongside innovative hardware that enabled unique experiences. Examples include the iPhone’s touch interface leading to apps like Instagram and Uber, and Steam facilitating complex multiplayer games. Currently, AI applications are limited mainly to chat interfaces due to restrictions from cloud API capabilities, resulting in sluggish performance and lack of rich interactions. Companies like Apple and Microsoft are recognizing the need for enhanced hardware, investing in powerful chips that support AI processing. Despite advancements in edge AI hardware, no company has fully combined hardware, compelling first-party apps, and a developer ecosystem, which is essential for realizing the full potential of AI. The opportunity lies in creating consumer AI hardware paired with engaging built-in applications, much like iOS would have benefited from a broader app ecosystem beyond just Safari. The eventual success depends on who effectively implements this integrated hardware strategy.

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