TLDR

• Beeper CEO takes on Apple, aiming to unify chat across platforms.

• Slams iMessage for trapping users within Apple's walls.

• 'Beeper Mini' blocked by Apple, halting encrypted cross-platform chats.

• Urges startups to challenge tech giants and push for open ecosystems.

• Looks to regulations like the Digital Markets Act to dismantle tech monopolies.

• Advocates for Beeper's transparent, user-first subscription model.

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Beeper's Universal Chat Ambitions and Apple's Ecosystem Control [0:00-1:32]

Eric Migicovsky, the CEO of Beeper, joined Jason to discuss the challenges startups face when dealing with large platforms like Apple, and Beeper's mission to create a universal chat app. Migicovsky described the frustration of managing multiple chat apps and the need for easier communication across different networks. Beeper is working to unite them all into one application. Migicovsky remarked, 'if we don't speak up if we don't share our experience and if we don't explain that you know creating new products is harder because of the fact that one company controls this ecosystem, it won't change.' This sets the stage for a conversation on the difficulties startups encounter and the potential for change.

iMessage: A Barrier to Switching from iPhone [6:34-8:22]

Migicovsky elaborated on how Apple's iMessage creates barriers that prevent users from easily switching to Android devices due to its tight integration with iOS and green vs. blue bubble dynamics in messaging. 'SMS is a telepan protocol that's used by the carriers. It is an open standard. But Apple has a rule which says that only they can build an SMS app for Android,' he added, critically pointing out the limitations imposed by Apple on communication flexibility and choice for users.

Beeper Mini Blocked by Apple Days After Launch [13:39-15:21]

After Beeper developed and launched 'Beeper Mini,' an app enabling blue bubble messages for Android users achieving end-to-end encryption with iMessage, Apple blocked it within three days. Despite over 100,000 users subscribing to the platform in that time, Apple justified the shutdown by claiming security and privacy concerns. The shutdown effectively stifled an advancement that Migicovsky believed enhanced iPhone users' messaging experience with Android users.

Fighting Back Against Apple: A Startup's Struggle [18:37-22:22]

Migicovsky highlighted the importance of startups to not remain silent against the overwhelming power of companies like Apple. By sharing their development struggles and advocating for a more open and interoperable ecosystem, startups can prompt regulatory changes. He stressed that if they do not take action, creating new products will remain challenging under the hegemony of companies like Apple.

The Regulatory Landscape and Future Outlook [22:22-27:56]

The conversation shifted to the broader regulatory environment, touching upon European regulations like the Digital Markets Act, and U.S. investigations into Apple's monopolistic practices. Migicovsky expressed hope for a future with open protocols where users can communicate across networks without being tethered to a single tech giant's ecosystem. The hope is that startups and regulators can work toward a more open digital market, despite historically slow progress in government circles compared to the fast-paced startup world.

Personal Reflections and Industry Evolution [28:03-34:03]

Reflecting on his experience with Pebble, Migicovsky emphasized the need for a strong visionary future for startups. He also noted the mismatch between startup timelines and regulatory changes, encouraging startups to be proactive in building products and platforms that align with a vision of openness and interoperability. He concluded by acknowledging the constraints and powers at play within the tech industry, calling on developers to stand up against practices they believe are unfair.

Beeper's Business Model and Support [34:03-37:25]

In conclusion, Migicovsky explained Beeper's business model, focusing on a straightforward subscription-based service. He contrasted this with other networks that are locked into platforms or have unclear revenue streams, reinforcing the importance of user data privacy and control. Migicovsky encouraged the community's support in the fight against restrictive practices by using Beeper and adding their voices to the conversation about open standards in the tech industry.

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