The platform revolution: How APIs transform industry structures
summary
APIs shift business models from pipeline firms to platform business replaces pipeline by turning discrete functions into embeddable services; examples include Stripe as a common payments/financial identity layer, Smartcar exposing vehicle components as APIs, and Apple aggregating health records via connectors to Epic and labs. APIs enable unbundling and rebundling (news → Facebook/Google) and foster data network effects concentrate value and learning effects that drive concentration; regulatory moves like embedded finance via PSD2 accelerate commoditization and new control points.
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chapters (16)
- 0:00Intro
- 1:04What are APIs
- 4:09APIs fundamentally changed the business model
- 10:03APIs are the new freedom
- 11:05APIs are the new control
- 14:11How APIs increase inequality
- 17:10Unbundling and rebundling
- 22:33Embedded functions
- 23:41Dissolve firm boundaries
- 25:24Restructure industry
- 26:58Conclusion
- 27:28Open consumption
- 31:23Build vs participate
- 33:56API in the supply chain
- 35:57How to choose the right API
- 37:39The business model of opening
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