PodcastsThis Week in StartupsFCC's Brendan Carr on Starlink subsidy revocation, China's internet ambitions, and TikTok | E1870
FCC's Brendan Carr on Starlink subsidy revocation, China's internet ambitions, and TikTok | E1870
This Week in StartupsSun Dec 24 2023
Starlink vs. StarNet:
- China's launch of StarNet poses a significant challenge, potentially altering the global internet landscape with its satellite-based internet service.
- The emergence of competition from Amazon's offering and Hughes' low earth orbit offering in conjunction with Starlink may lead to a price war among satellite internet providers.
Regulatory Harassment of Elon Musk:
- President Biden's statement about looking into Elon Musk has led to what seems like an unprecedented pace and cadence of regulatory inquiries targeting him across multiple administrative agencies.
- The FCC's decision to revoke Starlink's $900 million subsidy was perceived as regulatory harassment of Elon Musk by the Biden administration.
Impact of 5G and Satellite Internet:
- The convergence of technologies in 5G and fixed wireless is transforming connectivity options, allowing wirelessly delivered high-speed service that competes with traditional broadband providers.
- Fixed wireless technologies like Starlink offer efficient solutions for bridging the digital divide in rural areas, providing cost-effective alternatives compared to fiber build-outs.
China's Global Internet Ambitions:
- China aims to become a global internet provider, potentially undercutting competitors like Starlink and Amazon in terms of pricing.
- Concerns are raised about offering nations in Africa internet filters and censorship that align with the CCP's interests, which could significantly impact geopolitics.
- Huawei is mentioned as having an 80% market share in Nairobi, Kenya, indicating its strong presence in African markets.
TikTok's Influence and Foreign Influence:
- TikTok has been under scrutiny for its potential to be strategically used by foreign nations, particularly the CCP, as evidenced by pro-Hamas content trending during the Middle Eastern conflict.
- There are concerns regarding surveillance and foreign influence through platforms like TikTok, especially in relation to targeting select US politicians for criticism.
- The federal government's handling of TikTok is discussed, including passing a nationwide ban on TikTok for federal devices.
The Importance of Early Company Startups:
- 2023 is highlighted as an opportune time to start a company due to it being built on previous super cycles such as the PC revolution, internet revolution, app and cloud revolution, leading into the AI revolution and globalization.
- Starting a company during this period is emphasized as advantageous due to its foundation on past technological revolutions and potential for rapid global expansion.
Founder University Pre-Accelerator Program:
- Founder University offers a 12-week course providing essential knowledge about creating startups, covering aspects such as launching products, customer acquisition strategies, business models, and scaling companies.
- The program encourages individuals with various skill sets - developers, UX/UI designers, growth hackers - to participate with the aim of fostering their entrepreneurial journey.
- The program also offers applicants the opportunity to apply for $25,000 in funding every week if they need it
Investment in Found University:
- Jason Calacanis has invested in approximately 70-80 companies, providing checks ranging from $25,000 to $500,000.
- The investment approach is flexible, with the option for direct investments and a focus on learning and gaining experience even if a startup fails.
Artificial Intelligence Super Cycle:
- Jason Calacanis emphasizes the current era as the start of an artificial intelligence super cycle that builds upon previous advancements.
- Running a company has become more cost-effective due to technological progress, making it an opportune time for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Founder University Application:
- Prospective candidates are encouraged to apply to Founder University regardless of their uncertainty about eligibility, ensuring they receive updates and invitations to exclusive events.
- The program aims to foster world-changing companies and seeks to be the first investor for applicants' ventures.